Description

Mexican American Catholic College will launch a program for young Latino/a faith leaders. Developed in partnership with Catholic Extension, a national fundraising organization which supports poor mission dioceses across the United States, the program will target young adult Latino/a leaders who have already completed diocesan leadership programs, focusing in particular on those who come from under-resourced parishes. The 15-day intensive program will offer an introduction to theological education coupled with hands-on pastoral encounters, thereby encouraging aspiring leaders to pursue advanced theological degrees and careers of pastoral ministry. Following a period of coursework, students will take part in supervised immersion experiences outside the classroom, intended, “to broaden their horizons and open their eyes to various pastoral, social, and economic realities in our country.” The Luce Foundation’s grant will support faculty instructors, fellowships for students, and travel related to immersion experiences. Over a two year period, the grant will support the participation of approximately 75 young Latino/a leaders in their 20s and 30s.