About the Institute
The Institute of Missionary Discipleship offers certifications for adult volunteers involved in various ministries throughout the Diocese of Kalamazoo.

Religious Emblem Counselors and Catholic Committee on Scouting Board Members are encouraged to take advantage of the classes and seminars offered by the Institute, especially the Introduction to Missionary Discipleship and Called and Gifted courses.

Introduction to Missionary Discipleship
This training gives an introduction to what it means to be a missionary disciple.  We will explore the history of discipleship in the church throughout her existence. Participants will seek to understand their individual relationship with Jesus and His Church. They will learn how to share their story and learn to pray with others. They will explore what true hospitality means. They will discover ways to strengthen and encourage their relationship with God and how to keep a strong prayer life going. The presentation will be given by Deacon Keith Strohm from M3 Ministries.

Called and Gifted
This training will explore the charisms that are given by God to every individual. The process will assist those wanting to work with the Church in discovering what Charisms they have and how they might be able to be used for the greater glory of God. More information about Called and Gifted can be found at https://siena.org/called-gifted.

Certifications Offered by the Institute
LEM/Staff: For those who are already on a parish staff, want to work on a parish staff someday, or are key volunteers at a parish ought to seek this certification.  

Accompaniment Ministry: Each parish may have selected certain ministries they support and parish members volunteer or participate with the ministries.  Accompaniment ministry assists the volunteers walking with those who are struggling in their lives or their faith, and helps to move people closer to Jesus and His Church.   

Parish/Finance Council: Any council members or those who would like to be a council member whether it is with finance or parish, would participate in this certification.  

Catechist: Teaching and passing on the faith is an important part of the life of a Disciple.  If you are called to teach the Catholic faith to young and old alike, your guidance begins here.  

Liturgical Ministries: Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Sacristans, Music Ministers and others who serve through the liturgy are called to this certification track.  

Community, Organization, Group Leaders: This certification is for those who are in a leadership position running a small group, a Catholic organization, or a Catholic community.