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Overview of YTM Masters of Arts in Pastoral Ministry
The Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Ministry with a concentration in Catechetical Leadership is an ATS (Association of Theological Schools) accredited program of graduate theological study. It is designed to integrate sound theological investigation with the examination of pastoral issues relating to catechetical leadership. The program of study includes coursework and two supervised practicums designed to help students integrate theological knowledge, skills, and ministerial practice.
An outcome of the YTM MA in pastoral ministry is that students will build a portfolio that meets the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop’s Commission on Certification and Accreditation approved standards and competencies for certification as a Lay Ecclesial Minister. Saint John’s School of Theology has utilized the certification standards and competencies in creating the curriculum, ministry formation program, and field education.
A cohort model of learning provides significant support and encouragement for the twenty-five youth ministers, religious education coordinators and high school religion teachers who together work towards completing the degree. It is designed for pastoral ministers who are working full or part time in ministry. Four graduate courses are taken each year: two courses each summer and one course during the fall and spring semesters. The classes will be held on weekends once per month in the fall and spring. The summer classes will start on a weekend in May, include two weeks at the YTM Summer Institute, and then conclude with three days in late July or early August.
The faculty for the YTM MA in Pastoral Ministry is an excellent mix of regular Saint John’s School of Theology faculty members and adjuncts who bring a national perspective to youth ministry and catechesis. Two of our regular adjuncts with national reputations in youth ministry and catechesis include Dr. Michael Carotta who has taught the Evangelization and Catechetics course and Dr. Robert McCarty who has taught the Leadership in the Christian Community Course.
YTM uses a unique team approach for graduate education. A requirement of YTM is that adults in the graduate program bring two youth (10-12th grade) from their parish to the YTM youth program. This thirteen month youth program consists of a two-week long YTM Summer Institute, an overnight retreat in January, and a second two week YTM Summer Institute. During this time the adult in the MA cohort will mentor their youth through a parish or school leadership justice project. This is an apprenticeship approach for engaging high school youth in theological study, prayer, and leadership. The adults concentrate on their graduate coursework while the youth take theology courses, do community service, and experience a variety of Christian prayer forms.
The YTM Masters of Arts in Pastoral Ministry is highly subsidized through the Saint John’s School of Theology Scholarship Program and through funds from a grant from the Lilly Endowment.
Youth in Theology and Ministry Program
Saint John's School of Theology·Seminary
Box 7288, Collegeville, Minnesota 56321