Founded in 1967, the Pastoral Institute of the Brooklyn Diocese has a long tradition of providing programs and resources for theological and pastoral formation of the laity in Brooklyn and Queens. This tradition continues to the present time with programs that are specifically designed for lay pastoral leaders in our parishes.

In fulfilling its mission, the Pastoral Institute sponsors the following programs:

Lay Ministry Program – a three-year program that prepares pastoral leaders to serve as volunteer team members or coordinators for a particular ministry. Classes in English and Spanish start each September at locations throughout the Diocese.

Foundations for Ministry Program– a ten-week, twenty-hour program of theological up-dating for those engaged in ministry, for parish council members, and for those discerning enrollment in the three-year program.

M. A. Scholarship Program in Theology – prepares individuals to serve as a Pastoral Associate, Director of Religious Education, or in other professional leadership positions, by offering the opportunity for graduate studies in theology at a nearby university or seminary. The Alive in Hope Foundation provides financial assistance for those persons who need it.

The Pastoral Institute is the diocesan agency that relates to Pastoral Associates. It assists those parishes that are interested in hiring these ministers and also relates to persons who are seeking employment as Pastoral Associates.

The links on this page provide additional information on these programs for lay ministry formation. The link to Pastoral Associates describes their role and the application procedures.