Training & Certification Equivalencies
1. Pathways/Alpha
2. Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF)
3. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Pathways/Alpha
Pathways is the diocesan adult faith formation program. It is a series of 12 sessions, three workshops and a retreat. Each of the 12 sessions addresses a specific topic that is presented in the form of a question.
Participants must attend the first workshop, “Called and Gifted,” prior to attending classes, and attendance is mandatory to earn the Pathways Certificate of Completion. Earning a Pathways Certificate of Completion will satisfy all the requirements for basic certification.
This equivalency will only be given to those who have earned a Pathways Certificate of Completion since 2004-05. A Pathways/Alpha Certificate of Completion earned prior to 2004-05 will satisfy the creed, sacraments, morality, and liturgy and prayer requirements of basic certification. Participants will still have to satisfy the Ecclesiology requirement to complete basic certification.
Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF)
The Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) began in 1997 as an Internet based distance learning initiative of the Institute for Pastoral Leadership at the University of Dayton. In collaboration with diocesan partners, VLCFF complements and supports diocesan efforts in adult faith and catechist formation, anytime and anywhere, via the Internet.
The Diocese of Greensburg is one of more than 20 VLCFF partners located throughout the United States and in other parts of the world.
The following VLCFF courses will qualify for equivalencies for Basic and Permanent Certification courses:
Basic Certification
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Topic
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Course Title
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Creed
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Catholic Beliefs
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Sacraments
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Sacraments
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Morality
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Christian Morality
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Liturgy & Prayer
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On Bended Knee
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Ecclesiology
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Beginnings of the Church
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Permanent Certification
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Topic
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Course Title
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Scripture
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Scripture
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Christology
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Images of Jesus
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Church History
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Church History I
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Catholicism in America
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Church History II
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Catholic Social Teaching
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Advanced Catholic Social Teaching
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Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) applies Montessori principles of education to catechesis of children. This model builds on the child’s religious potential and nascent spirituality, serving the religious needs of the child. It respects the natural relationship that children experience with God.
Catechesis occurs in a religious environment called an atrium using objects and furniture that have been adapted to children’s levels and needs. The children discover liturgical symbols, engage in stories of sacred Scripture and work with religious symbols and objects.
Catechists are specifically trained to facilitate an encounter between Christ and the children through the use of Scripture and liturgy.
Training in the following levels of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd will satisfy the following levels of the Training and Catechetical Certification Process:
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Courses
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Level Satisfied
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Levels I and II and Sacramental Preparation Training
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Basic Certification
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Levels II and III Training
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Permanent Certification
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