Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The Archdiocese of Louisville is currently accepting new students for the Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program (LIMEX) at Loyola University New Orleans. This extension program allows laypeople to earn a master’s degree or certificate in pastoral studies or religious education.

“People really get into it and seem to love it,” said Art Turner, director of faith formation for the archdiocese and facilitator and liaison of the LIMEX program. He noted that one central question guides each class: “How does this apply to your ministry?”

The partnership between LIMEX and the archdiocese began in 2005 when the archdiocese recognized that individuals involved in ministry desired further education but were unable to manage traveling for a traditional master’s program while working. “They needed more, they wanted more, but there wasn’t a way of doing it,” said Turner.

The program requires completion of 12 classes on subjects such as “Introduction to Practical Theology” and “Jewish Roots (Old Testament).” The cohort attends the first six classes in person, meeting weekly for three-hour sessions focused on roundtable discussions rather than lectures. The latter six classes are taken online, tailored to an individual’s chosen focus area.

The coursework is designed for people already in ministry and those seeking involvement. Past students have commonly come from careers in secondary education, diocesan ministry, and parish ministry. However, Turner emphasized that the program is open to anyone with a natural curiosity and some sense of ministry.

Turner highlighted that busy mothers have been among the most diligent students. “There was not one busy mom (who participated in the program) that did not do well.” For mothers whose ministry is their family, he posed the question: “How are you nurturing the domestic church in your household?”

Paula Silliman, pastoral associate at St. Francis Xavier Church in Mt. Washington, Ky., earned a certificate in 2022 and will graduate with a master’s degree in 2025. Initially an educator who became active in her parish after raising her children, Silliman felt drawn to pastoral ministry despite lacking a theological degree. The LIMEX program provided her with this opportunity.

Silliman chose to pursue a master’s degree in religious education focusing on youth and young adults. She noted that the online portion has fostered solidarity with parishes nationwide facing similar challenges and joys. “I hope this program makes me a resource,” she said. “We’re all here for the same mission.”

For those transitioning from secular careers into ministry through this program, Turner remarked that it often reinforces their calling or prompts them to fully commit to ministerial work.

Since its inception in 2005, approximately 50 individuals from the Archdiocese of Louisville have completed the LIMEX program. The latest cohort finished their requirements for certificates in theology and ministry by December 2022; several members continued towards graduate degrees.

Turner anticipates eight to ten participants when the next cohort convenes this fall. Scholarships and discounted rates are available for those needing assistance with tuition costs.

For more information about enrolling or financial aid options, interested parties can email artturner@archlou.org or visit cnh.loyno.edu/lim/study-options.