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The Church of Ireland Theological Institute
Certificate in Christian Theology and Practice
Is the Certificate in Christian Theology and Practice for me?
The Certificate in Christian Theology and Practice (CCTP) is designed to build your knowledge of the Bible and Theology and to help you grow in your journey of personal discipleship. For more information about how it might suit your needs, click on the link below that best describes you.
- I am interested in learning more for my own discipleship and knowledge.
- I am interested in training as a Diocesan Lay Reader in the Church of Ireland.
- I am interested in training as an Ordained Local Minister in the Church of Ireland
- I am considering ordination as a Stipendiary or Self Supporting Minister in the Church of Ireland
Course Structure
Following an introductory weekend ‘Fit for the Purpose‘ Retreat, students take six modules which meet in a blend of online learning and residential weekends.
| Module Title | Months Taught at Residential Weekends | Meets Online |
|---|---|---|
| Encountering the Old Testament | January & March | From January to March |
| Introduction to The Creeds | January & March | From January to March |
| Preparing to Lead Public Worship | May & June | From March to June |
| Encountering the New Testament | May & June | From March to June |
| Development of Theological Thinking | September & November | From June to November |
| Theological Reasoning & Critical Thinking (Elective) or | September & November | From June to November |
| Spiritual & Self–Understanding | September & November | From June to November |
How to apply (APPLICATIONS ARE CLOSED AND WILL RE–OPEN IN JULY 2024)
- Click here to apply on–line
- Click here to download application form and email to CCTP@theologicalinstitute.ie
- Post to the Church of Ireland Theological Institute, Braemor Park, Churchtown, Dublin, D14 KX24, Ireland.
How much will it cost?
The full certificate programme costs €2,475. This fee includes TCD registration, library access and all meals. Accommodation at Braemor Park (CITI) will be available on four of the six residential weekends. (January, June, September and November). Those attending the additional two weekends in person (8–10 March 24, 17–19 May 24) will have responsibility for their own accommodation.
Pre–ordination, Diocesan Reader and OLM costs are agreed with respective dioceses. Those from the Adult Faith Formation cohort please contact Lynda Levis, lyndalevis@theologicalinstitute.ie in relation to costings and payment. General fee queries may also be addressed to Lynda.
The full programme is necessary for potential ordinands, Ordained Local Ministry candidates and those engaged in Diocesan Reader Training. Those exploring Adult Faith Formation are also welcome to take the full accredited programme. If you are doing the programme for your own personal enrichment you can elect to take only the ‘Fit for the Purpose’ Retreat weekend or specific modules of your choosing. In this case costs are available upon request.
If you have any questions, contact CCTP@theologicalinstitute.ie or ring 353 1 492 3506.
The study days at CITI gave me space, opportunity and structure to examine my sense of vocation. There was support to engage academically and there were prayerful times of devotion to engage spiritually. The whole experience encouraged me to be open to God’s guidance and to step out in faith.
Abigail Sines
‘Fit for the Purpose’ Retreat
This weekend retreat is framed by vibrant, daily worship in the chapel. It begins and ends there starting with Friday evening worship and concluding with a Eucharist and opportunity for prayer ministry on Sunday morning. Friday evening and Saturday lectures invite students to reflect on themselves, on their communities and on the calling of God on their lives as followers of Christ. Discussion groups give opportunities for students to reflect and to process their learning in a safe environment. Communal meals are opportunities for fellowship and further conversation with tutors and fellow students.
Residential Weekends
Weekends integrate class sessions for modules with worship and opportunities for fellowship. The weekend begins with Friday evening worship followed by dinner and one class session. Saturdays are also framed by morning and evening worship and include taught sessions. On Sunday mornings, students have taught input followed by a concluding Eucharist.