Personal Testimonials about the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry

“I am very grateful to the Pastoral Ministry Program that gave me excellent classes in religion, pastoral ministry, social work and the practicum experience.  These courses not only enriched my life, but also gave me up-to-date education in religion that helps me in my teaching of freshman religion at Seton Hill University.  Because I continue to teach at the university, rather than minister in a parish, I am not a ‘typical’ pastoral ministry student.”

~ Sister of Charity Ann Infanger

“The Pastoral Ministry Certificate Program has been a spiritual journey.  As I traveled through the program, I gained a greater understanding of God, others and myself.  Through study, prayer, spiritual direction and new friendships with classmates, I have grown immensely.  As a result, the more I study and mature in my faith, the more I am drawn to the work of ministry and personally experience the verse from James: "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you" (Jas 4:8). 

~ Sandy Monier, parishioner of St. Barbara Parish, Harrison City

 “The Pastoral Ministry Program was very helpful to me as I began my new ministry as spiritual care coordinator at Humility House, an assisted living/nursing home facility — particularly the practicum. It gave me firsthand experience in doing what I am doing in my ministry now.

When I began the program in 2004, my goal was to work with the elderly. I had this strong desire to be an advocate for the elderly. I finished the program in April 2006, went on a 30-day sabbatical in May, volunteered at Country Meadows Nursing Home and Assisted Living and Kane Hospital in June and July, interviewed for my position in August, and started my new ministry in September.

I was well prepared and obtained the position because of my experiences in the Pastoral Ministry Program and the working of the Holy Spirit. The classes, the practicum and the seminar all made my clinical pastoral education classes, which are a requirement for my new position, so much easier than they would have been with out the experiences in the program, especially the understanding of writing theological reflections.”

~ Sister of Charity Mary Lou Palas

 “The benefits of the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry program are both tangible and spiritual.  For me, the result of those years of study and experiences is at least threefold.

The first is that I fell deeply in love with my faith. The support of everyone involved with the program encouraged and enabled me to grow in knowledge, understanding and acceptance of the teachings of the church. 

Secondly, because of the development and growth of my spiritual life, I was profoundly changed.  I have learned to see through the eyes of faith, to recognize and respect the worldview of others and try to live each day with an authenticity rooted in that faith. 

Thirdly, I was able to discern the gifts given to me by the Holy Spirit.  Because of my interest in liturgy, I am now the coordinator of art and environment, along with extraordinary minister of holy Communion and lector at my parish.

Through the training, guidance and experience of my practicum in campus ministry at Seton Hill, I have been able to assume the position of adviser for the Catholic student club on campus at California University of PA.  The Certificate in Pastoral Ministry has made me a better, well-informed member of the Catholic Church.”    

~ Marie Seftas, parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Cathedral Parish, Greensburg

Submit a personal testimony about the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry. Please limit your submission to 250 words or less.