The Pastoral Institute is committed to making adult education a high priority in the Diocese of Victoria by providing a solid curriculum of basic courses pertaining to the Catholic faith.
Understanding and living the Catholic Faith is a life-long commitment. Each person is called to grow continually and to respond openly to Christ in his/her life.
"Adult faith formation, by which people consciously grow in the life of Christ through experience, reflection, prayer and study, must be the central task in [this] catechetical enterprise..."
The Extended Program consists of 13 six-week courses (152 clock hours) offered in different centers in the diocese. Each course is for 6 weeks, two-hours per class (12 hours total). You must attend at least 4 classes per course to receive credit.
Catholic school religion teachers will receive credit hours based on their attendance (6 classes = 12 credit hours, 4 classes = 8 credit hours) as per Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John E. Quary.
Two courses are offered per semester. Cost for each six-week course is $30. Book fees vary per course.
A Continuing Education Program consists of on-going Scripture and theological courses for those who have completed the Extended Program or for other interested persons.
NOTE: There is a $20.00 fee for the Extended and Continuing Education classes. Book fees are extra.
A class record is created for each person who attends the Pastoral Institute.
Certificates are issued for completed classes and noted on the individual's record.
The Short-Term Program is now year round! The Diocese of Victoria is excited to offer Echoes 3.0 online which is the most comprehensive tool available for cathechist formation. The newly revised and fully interactive online design provides flexible learning on your schedule, while working at your own pace. Get complete access of Echoes 3.0 for ONE YEAR with each subscription and start enjoying the features and benefits today!
ECHOES 3.0 ONLINE REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE! CLICK HERE.