The Fruit of Collaboration Between the Diocese of Venice in Florida and Barry University (Miami, Florida): Rice School Offers Two Programs of Ministry Formation

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BOTH MASTERS & DIPLOMA PROGRAMS (auditors are always welcome in all these classes)

A completed application form together with a Letter of Intent and a brief biographical essay (look on this website under Admissions; Application Forms); two letters of recommendation and a personal interview; an annual day of gathering and prayer at the beginning of each academic year; and an annual faith formation retreat.

MASTER’S IN PASTORAL THEOLOGY

The M.A. in Pastoral Theology (36 total credits), which is bestowed by Barry University (a Dominican school in Miami, FL), is for those who seek formal credentials. This degree is a fully accredited program of theological study as certified by the Association of Theological Schools (the same theological accrediting body adhered to by major universities). Because of the generous financial support of the Diocese of Venice, the Rice School is able to charge a much lower rate of tuition than a typical Catholic university. A 3-credit course at the Rice School is only $800! (For more information on the costs of this program look under Admissions and then Tuition & Fees.)

Requirement for the Master's Degree Program

– A Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with at least a 3.0 (B) grade point average;

– Sufficient undergraduate preparation and/or life experience as indicated in academic transcripts or in the interview with the Program Director or faculty member;

– Completion of 30 credit hours plus two (3-credit) practica courses in pastoral ministry for a total of 36 hours;

– Three copies of the Practicum report to the Rice School for use in the libraries;

– A written comprehensive examination

– Required courses are RPM 500, 509, 510, 540, and 542 as well as two additional courses in systematics/ history (one of these must be either RPM 511 or 512), one in scripture, one in liturgy/ spirituality, one in moral theology plus two elective courses (see M.A. Tracking Sheet for full outline of curriculum options).

– A maximum of six graduate credits from another institution, to be approved by the administration, may be transferred toward the degree after the student has completed at least two courses.

DIOCESAN DIPLOMA

The Diocesan Diploma (30 total credits) is for those who seek formal training for either paid or volunteer service to the Church but whose life circumstances (e.g., family, time, health or educational level) prevent their entrance into the rigors of a graduate program in theology. The cost per class is $600. (For more information on the costs of this program look under Admissions and then Tuition & Fees.)

Requirement for the Diploma Program

– Completion of 27 credit hours and a supervised practicum in pastoral ministry for a total of 30 credits.

– Required courses are RPM 500, 509 and 542; 501 or 502 (or a related 550); 503 or 504 (or a related 550); two courses from 510, 511, 512, 513 (or a related 550); Note: One of these two courses must be either 511 or 512;

– Two courses from 520, 521, 522; 530 or 531 (see Diploma Tracking Sheet for full outline of curriculum options).

– Each student will provide two bound copy of the Practicum report to the Rice School or use in the library.

AUDITING CLASSES AT THE RICE SCHOOL

Auditors are always welcome. The cost to audit a course is $250.

THE PASTORAL DIFFERENCE

Many schools across the country offer programs of theological study. What sets a ministerial program like the Rice School apart is its emphasis on making theology both personal and practical.

St. Anselm of Canterbury teaches us that “Theology is faith seeking understanding.” At the Rice School we attempt to integrate theological education with personal spiritual formation. We begin each class with prayer, approaching the study of theology as part of our own search for a deeper experience of the presence of God. Our Annual Gathering Day takes place at OLPH Retreat Center, beginning the year with prayer, study, and fellowship. In addition, all our students participate in annual retreats that challenge them to integrate what they have learned into their own spiritual life.

Lastly, our classes (offered at many different parishes around the diocese) address theological and ministry issues – both theory and praxis. Class assignments challenge the student to create Bible studies and parish presentations… and then actually do them! Practicum courses place students in ministry settings (under appropriate supervision) and ask them to reflect on what they have learned. Simply put: our goal is to serve the Church more fully, with greater fidelity to Her mission to spread the Faith!

THE BENEFIT: DISCIPLES BETTER PREPARED FOR SERVICE

Ultimately, the proof of the success of any program is found in its results. At the Rice School we measure that success by observing the ways our students and graduates respond to the Gospel call to become “…laborers into His harvest...” (Luke 10:2). We are proud to report that our students and graduates hold positions in diocesan offices and serve in many diocesan parishes. Our alumni serve on liturgical committees, lead R.C.I.A. teams and Bible studies, co-ordinate the efforts of charitable organizations and educate students in our diocesan elementary and high schools. They visit the sick and the homebound, and comfort the dying. In short, they serve the Church. That is why we exist.


“Only from inside the Church’s mystery of communion is the ‘identity’ of the lay faithful made known and their fundamental dignity revealed. Only within the context of this dignity can their vocation and mission in the Church and in the world be defined.” – John Paul II, Christifideles Laici 8