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Key Facts

• In person at the FCJ Centre by the Cathedral in Calgary. Hybrid option for those who wish to participate remotely.
• Approximately $6000 ($500/credit)
• 8 Courses over the course of four years, delivered on Saturdays for 6-hours.
• First intake: Spring 2026 (May 2026)
• Applications open: October 1, 2025
• Last Day to apply and supporting document deadline: March 31, 2026

Why Choose St. Mary’s?

A University Rooted in Catholic Identity and Educational Excellence

• The only Catholic university in Western Canada
• Faculty with solid expertise in Catholic education and leadership
• Strong connections to Catholic school divisions across Alberta and beyond
• Faith-affirming curriculum and community

Program Description

Rooted in the rich intellectual tradition of the Church, this program equips faith leaders and educators with the theological foundation, confidence, and clarity needed to serve effectively in parishes, schools, and ministries. Whether you are called to ordained ministry, parish leadership, or lay apostolate, the Pastoral Certificate in Catholic Theological Studies offers a meaningful opportunity to grow in knowledge, faith, and service.

Catholic Intellectual Tradition
6 Saturdays in Fall 2026 (3 credits)

This 3-credit course provides an introduction to the core teachings of Catholicism. For each topic, this course incorporates discussion of biblical origins, importance of historical texts, reflections by important philosophers and theologians, contemporary debates, and pastoral application for a nuanced study of Catholic belief and practice (collectively referred to as the Catholic intellectual tradition). This course places particular emphasis on the interconnectedness of various beliefs and the breath of sacramental, devotional, and moral practices within the Catholic faith.

Theology of the Church
3 Saturdays in the Spring 2027 (1.5 credits) 

This 1.5-credit course provides an introduction to the theology of the church that is the worldwide Christian community (often known as ecclesiology). This course provides a theological reflection on the nature, mission, ministries, and structure of the church, with a particular emphasis on the Roman Catholic tradition. Discussion will focus on a variety of topics, including the beginnings of the church in the New Testament; an overview of Church history that highlights significant developments in authority; the importance of Vatican II; an examination of the current models of the Church.

Reading Biblical Texts
6 Saturdays in Fall 2027 (3 credits)

This 3-credit course surveys the texts of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and the Christian New Testament in their different literary, historical, and social contexts. Students will apply the interpretive tools of biblical scholarship to probe the meaning from the text. This course provides an understanding of the Bible as the Word of God expressed in the language of human beings, its inspired formulation within the faith community, and its ongoing interpretation within the history of the Church. The course introduces the student to the religion of ancient Israel, the emergence of early Judaism and the genesis of Christianity.

Church History
3 Saturdays in the Spring 2028 (1.5 credits)

This 1.5-credit course surveys the history of Christianity, from Jesus and the early Christian Movement to the Medieval period to the Modern period. Special attention will be given to the history of Catholicism in Canada, as well as to the Second Vatican Council. Students will examine the development of Christianity as it intersects with the prevailing political, social, and ethnic cultures in the western world and beyond. This course will cover the major events, personalities, and movements in Church History, as well as explore how core Christian doctrines developed (distinguishing between orthodoxy and heresy).

Understanding the Sacraments 
3 Saturdays in Fall 2028 (1.5 credits)

This 1.5-credit course is a study of the Catholic understanding of sacraments, including the biblical, historical and theological development of each sacrament. We will explore the meaning and importance of sacraments, with emphasis on pastoral applications.

Contemporary Issues and Catholic Moral Theology 
6 Saturdays in Winter 2029 (3 credits)

This 3-credit course is an introduction to moral theology in the Catholic tradition. The course will include a study of moral law, grace, conscience, virtues, freedom, sin, the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, and the call to love. We will explore current issues in human sexuality, beginning and end-of-life issues, and the social teachings of the church, with emphasis on pastoral applications.

Foundations of Ministry
6 Saturdays in Fall 2029 (3 credits)

This 3-credit course is an introduction to the Church’s identity and mission of evangelization in its ministry as witness to Jesus Christ through teaching and service. Theological and historical foundations of ordained and lay ministry. The pastoral, theological, human, and spiritual formation of ministry leaders with particular emphasis on the role of pastoral accompaniment. The importance of professional and ethical standards and self-care. Reflections on ministry within a diverse, multicultural, ecumenical and interreligious context.

Introduction to Ministries: Catechesis/Family/Youth
3 Saturdays in Spring 2029 (1.5 credits)

This 1.5-credit course is a theological and pastoral study of the Church’s ministry of teaching and catechesis in the mission of evangelization, with particular attention given to the ministry of youth and family.