The Mini Pastoral Program

The Mini Pastoral is an intense 3-week introduction to Hispanic Ministry. Developed in response to great need, the Mini Pastoral is a three-stage intensive training in Hispanic culture, faith expressions and traditions, offered in both Spanish and English. This course captures the mind, heart and spirit of the Mexican American peoples and offers the reality of their lives as a means for exploring and understanding ministry to and with Hispanic groups in the U.S. The interactive dynamic of the Mini Pastoral program encompasses seminars, lectures, outings in San Antonio and to the Texas-Mexican Border Region, Fiestas and reflection on themes, such as:

The Mini Pastoral is designed for both Hispanics and non-Hispanics who want to understand the diverse Hispanic and multicultural reality in the U.S. This course is recommended for laity, priests, religious, and seminarians beginning their ministry with Hispanics in the U.S. and for missionaries returning from Spanish speaking countries who will be serving/working in Hispanic communities in the U.S. This course illuminates the unique cultural and social reality of U.S. Hispanics which is distinct from the culture and experience of Mexicans in Mexico, or Central Americans in their home country. The Mini Pastoral in Spanish is particularly useful for seminarians and religious from Spanish speaking countries who need to gain an understanding of Hispanic culture within the context of the United States.

The Mini Pastoral is offered in English four times a year (January, June, July and late August), and in Spanish once a year (July). Verbal fluency in the language of instruction is strongly urged as this is a very interactive course. For students needing to learn Spanish or English, the Mini Pastoral is scheduled to coordinate with the Intensive Pastoral Spanish and Intensive Pastoral English programs to facilitate individuals participating in both programs consecutively.

The Mini Pastoral has been initially accredited by the US Catholic Conference Commission on Certification and Accreditation. Individuals who are enrolled in seminary programs or graduate studies are encouraged to inquire about academic credit for the Mini Pastoral at their home institution.

Upcoming Courses

Note: Classes are held on Labor Day (Sept. 3, 2001; Sept. 2, 2002) and on July 4th.

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Mexican American Cultural Center
3115 West Ashby Place
P.O. Box 28185
San Antonio, Texas 78228-5104
Phone (210) 732-2156 • Fax (210) 732-9072