Certificate in Benedictine Spirituality
This Certificate brings together practical application of the Rule of Saint Benedict and historical reflections on the development of Benedictine life, spirituality, and practices. Taught by experts within the faculty of Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary and other major Benedictine leaders and oblates, this certificate offers opportunities to further explore the Benedictine charism and is ideal for both Oblates and vowed Monastics.
Coursework
Program Composition
- 9 Credits in Benedictine Spirituality / Monastic Studies
- 3 Credits in Liturgy or Scripture
- 3 Credits in Unrestricted elective
Application Process
Saint John’s uses a robust application software, Slate, for the application process. Prospective students will create a username and password, and then upload/request pertinent information directly into Slate. After beginning an application, students can log back into the application portal and check their progress.
If you have any questions/concerns about Slate and the admission process, please reach out to the Admission Office: [email protected]
Letter of Intent
Applicants are required to upload a typed letter of intent as a part of the application. This letter should be about 350-500 words. Applicants should indicate their familiarity and experience with the Benedictine tradition and point to ways in which this education would further their personal, vocational, and/or professional development.
Letters of Recommendation
Benedictine Spirituality applicants are required to request 2 letters of recommendation from educational, religious/formational, or professional contacts, within the online application system.
Recommenders should be able to speak to the applicant’s capacity for success in graduate theological coursework, their spiritual disposition, and/or potential professional application of coursework.
Letters of recommendation must be requested through the Slate Portal and cannot be sent directly from the applicant to the admission office.
Transcripts
Official transcripts of post-secondary coursework must be sent from the Registrar’s Office to the Admissions Office
Contact Information for Sending Transcripts:
Admissions at Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary
P.O. Box 7288
Collegeville, MN 56321
Resume / CV
Applicants are required to submit an updated résumé outlining personal, educational and professional backgrounds. This can be uploaded directly into the application portal, Slate.
Oblates and Monastics
Vowed Monastics and Oblates who follow the Rule of Benedict can receive a special discounted rate to earn this particular certificate, please contact the admission office with any questions [email protected].
Benedictine Tradition
Theological study has long been valued in the Benedictine tradition as a central element of the search for God. At Saint John’s, the monastic rhythm of prayer and work keeps academic study grounded in the common life of faith.