+EDUCATIONAL METHODOLOGY AND PROGRAMS

The Coworkers of Christ Institute and Seminary (CWCIS) offers a formation-centered curriculum designed to cultivate both the heart and the mind in the service of Christ and His Church. Every program, whether introductory or advanced, flows from the Coworkers’ monastic and sacramental vision: to be and to form coworkers of Christ. Rooted in prayer, study, and service, the seminary seeks to shape those who are called to ministry, spiritual leadership, and theological reflection within the life of the Church and the world.

CWCIS offers course work through distance learning, and in residence at various locations and associate academic institutions. All students will be assigned an academic mentor who will advise and shepherd them through the applicable program or programs. Students are encouraged to maintain close contact with their mentor during enrollment.

A portfolio evaluation to determine the necessary course of study and required courses for a degree will be completed in consultation between the prospective student and the student’s academic mentor of the school. Our educational methodology is problem-based, and every student negotiates an individualized learning program based on prior education and experience.

Courses of study at CWCIS are designed to reflect a fundamental commitment to systematic scholarship and free inquiry which are essential in preparing students for the priesthood Independent Sacramental Movement. The curriculum is designed to be at once thoroughly professional and rigorously academic, providing a balance between academic reflections and field experience. Faculty expectations in the various courses are clearly outlined at the beginning of the study and a flexible curriculum for the achievement of these expectations has been designed.

+CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS

CWCIS welcomes students who wish to pursue theological or ministerial formation without seeking a full degree. Such students may enroll in individual courses for personal enrichment or follow a structured program leading to a Certificate of Completion. The Institute offers a variety of certificate programs, each totaling fifteen credit hours and typically completed within nine months or less. These may be undertaken as stand-alone programs or integrated as part of a degree track, providing both flexibility and meaningful formation in the chosen field of study.

The Certificate Programs are designed to provide focused formation in specific areas of theology, spirituality, and ministry. Each certificate offers both intellectual and spiritual enrichment for those seeking to deepen their faith, expand their ministry, or explore new dimensions of Christian understanding.

These programs are accessible to both laypersons and clergy, and may serve as continuing education, preparation for ministry, or personal spiritual development. Each reflects the guiding principle of CWCIS formation: learning as participation in the divine life, study as a form of prayer, and service as the fruit of wisdom.

Certificate in Peace Studies

An exploration of the Christian call to peace rooted in Scripture, tradition, and social theology. This program forms students to be peacemakers in their communities, addressing conflict, justice, and reconciliation through the lens of Christ’s Beatitudes and the prophetic tradition of nonviolence.

Certificate in Independent Sacramental Movement Studies

A specialized program examining the history, theology, and contemporary expression of the Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM). Students study apostolic succession, sacramental theology, and ecclesiology as they pertain to the ISM, with particular attention to its charisms of inclusivity, pastoral freedom, and ecumenical witness.

Certificate in Queer Theology

A courageous and affirming engagement with theology from the perspective of LGBTQ+ experience. This program explores themes of embodiment, liberation, and grace, grounding students in a vision of the Church as radically hospitable and reflective of the inclusive love of Christ.

Certificate in Celtic Christianity

An introduction to the spiritual and theological heritage of the Celtic Christian tradition. Students encounter the poetry, prayers, and theology of the early Celtic saints, exploring their reverence for creation, rhythms of daily prayer, and integration of contemplation with mission.

Certificate in Christian Community

Focused on the theology and practice of community life, this certificate examines how Christians are called to live in mutual care, shared prayer, and common purpose. Drawing from monastic and parish models alike, it emphasizes community as both vocation and sacrament.

Certificate in Biblical Studies

A guided study of the Holy Scriptures emphasizing historical context, theological meaning, and spiritual interpretation. This program helps students read the Bible as a living word, both ancient and ever-new, illuminating faith, prayer, and ministry.

Certificate in the Cure of Souls

Grounded in the ancient Christian practice of spiritual care, this program prepares ministers and laypersons for compassionate listening, discernment, and pastoral presence. It integrates the theology of grace with practical skills in spiritual direction and pastoral counseling.

Certificate in Liturgics

A study of the theology and practice of Christian worship, with special attention to the sacramental tradition of the Church. Students learn the meaning, history, and structure of the liturgy and its role in shaping faith and community life. Practical elements of liturgical planning and leadership are included.

Certificate in Christian Theology

An overview of core Christian doctrines , the Trinity, Christology, salvation, Church, and sacrament, in the context of historical development and contemporary reflection. Students are invited to think theologically and to engage faith as both mystery and vocation.

Certificate in the Social Gospel

A formation program in the Christian responsibility toward justice, mercy, and transformation of the world. Rooted in Scripture and the teachings of Jesus, this program explores the history of the Social Gospel movement and its modern applications in community service and social advocacy.

Certificate in Christian Mysticism

An immersion in the mystical tradition of the Church from the Desert Fathers and Mothers to the great contemplatives of East and West. Students explore the nature of divine union, contemplative prayer, and the transformative path of love that leads from self to God.

Certificate in Mindfulness

A contemplative and integrative approach to spiritual attentiveness. Drawing from Christian contemplative practice, monastic discipline, and modern insights into mindfulness, this program nurtures awareness, compassion, and the ability to encounter the present moment as sacred.

+DEGREE PROGRAMS

The Coworkers of Christ Institute and Seminary offers a range of traditional academic degree programs designed to provide a comprehensive education in theology, Scripture, pastoral ministry, and spiritual formation. Each program is grounded in the sacramental and monastic vision of the Coworkers of Christ, integrating intellectual rigor with a life of prayer, community, and service. Whether preparing for ordained ministry, deepening one’s theological understanding, or pursuing advanced research, students are invited into a path of study that seeks not only knowledge about God but a transformative encounter with God, the heart of all true theology.

Associate of Biblical Studies (A.B.S.)

A foundational program introducing students to the Scriptures through historical, theological, and spiritual lenses. Emphasis is placed on understanding the narrative of salvation history, the unity of the Testaments, and the development of biblical interpretation within the Church. This program prepares students for further theological studies or lay ministry.

Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.)

An undergraduate degree providing a comprehensive introduction to Christian theology, history, and pastoral practice. Students engage the doctrines of the faith through study of the creeds, liturgy, and sacraments while exploring their application to contemporary ministry. The Bachelor of Theology grounds students in sound theological understanding and prepares them for professional ministry or graduate-level work.

Bachelor of Sacred Theology (S.T.B.)

Building upon the Bachelor of Theology, the S.T.B. degree deepens academic and spiritual formation with particular attention to sacramental theology, ecclesiology, and pastoral identity. This program reflects the unique charism of the Independent Sacramental Movement: an integration of liturgical life, theological reflection, and compassionate service. Graduates are equipped for ordained ministry or advanced theological research.

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

The central professional degree for those preparing for ordained or full-time ministry. The M.Div. forms clergy and religious leaders in theology, pastoral care, preaching, liturgy, spiritual direction, and leadership. Formation in community, spiritual discipline, and the Cure of Souls are emphasized. Students are called not only to knowledge but to transformation—embodying Christ’s presence among the people they serve.

Master of Arts in Celtic Christianity (M.A.C.C.)

A specialized program exploring the theology, spirituality, and cultural expression of Celtic Christianity. Drawing from the ancient monastic traditions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Brittany, this degree emphasizes the harmony of creation, the sanctity of daily life, and the contemplative heart of mission. The M.A.C.C. is ideal for those seeking to integrate Celtic wisdom into modern spiritual practice and theology.

Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)

A terminal academic degree focused on original theological research and writing within the context of sacramental and pastoral theology. Candidates are expected to contribute meaningfully to theological discourse while maintaining a pastoral and spiritual sensitivity. The Th.D. at CWCIS is both scholarly and ecclesial and meant to serve the Church through rigorous, faithful, and creative thought.

Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

A professional doctorate for those already engaged in ministry who seek to deepen their theological insight and pastoral effectiveness. Through advanced study, reflection, and praxis, candidates explore the intersection of faith and practice, integrating theology with real-world ministry. The D.Min. emphasizes the renewal of both the minister and the community they serve.

Honorary Doctor of Divinity (D.D. Honoris Causa)

Awarded in recognition of distinguished service to the Church, to theological education, or to the spiritual welfare of humanity. The honorary Doctor of Divinity acknowledges lives that have exemplified the call to be coworkers of Christ—those who have embodied faith, scholarship, and compassion in the service of God’s people.