The Diocese’s Department of Ministry Formation Institute (MFI), which provides quality education and formation to adults, those seeking personal faith enrichment, ministerial leadership, and those inquiring about Permanent Diaconate, has partnered with the University of Dayton to provide online coursework for students.
This new partnership, which began last summer, offers students a wide variety of subjects and certification courses and with the courses being online, students can set their own pace and fit coursework within their schedules.
“As a parent of three busy teenagers, it was nice to be able to work around their schedules,” said Suzanne Dainko, parishioner of The Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Redlands, who earned a six-week certificate from the University of Dayton. “It also provided me an opportunity to share what I’ve learned in Parish Ministers Formation Program (PMFP) and Continuing Ministry Formation Program (CMFP).”
The University of Dayton’s physical campus is in Dayton, Ohio, however, by forming a partnership, the Diocese joins the Institute for Pastoral Initiatives and other partnering dioceses sharing resources and expertise to have more opportunities for catechist and faith formation.
“Knowing that our Diocese encourages this program, allows me to test that what I am learning through it is approved to apply to my ministry and my own Spiritual Life,” said Diana Wehbe, Coordinator of Youth Ministry at St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish in Yucaipa. “I look forward to continuing formation and service, as the Lord wills.”
Veronica Quiroz, a student in CMFP, said she is excited to take advantage of this new educational opportunity.
“There are so many topics and faith growing opportunities that are given in the MFI program,” said Quiroz, who is the wife of Deacon Jose Rene Quiroz. “Regardless of the years a person has been in ministry there is so much to learn.
“Now, having the blessing to partner up with a recognized University such as Dayton testifies that the individual will be prepared as a competent minister to serve the people of God,” Quiroz said.
Alexis R. Guzmán Creano, Director of Confirmation and Young Adult Ministry and a catechist at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Chino, acknowledges the University of Dayton’s vast courses as well as their connection to a world network.
“It helps a person further their knowledge about their faith and also allows them to engage with other people around the world,” Creano said. “You get to see their experiences being a part of a formation.”