Core Course: Introduction to the Catholic Faith
Starting June 13, 2022, Foundations of Catholic Belief replaces Core Course: Introduction to the Catholic Faith. Learn more about the new course and sign up.
For additional information or questions, please contact us at stepnd@nd.edu.
Course Description
In the documents of Vatican II, the baptized are called to holiness and to greater understanding of their unique role in building the Kingdom of God. An informational and enriching introduction to the Catholic faith and theology, this course will enable you to take greater responsibility in promoting the life and mission of the Church. Using the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults as a primary text, this course will explore six core areas and will serve as a good foundation for those who seek to continue theological studies or develop theological competency for ministry. Theology is a fascinating and vital subject that challenges those who study it to think critically and personally about human existence, the world we live in and our relationship with God and one another. It is recommended (but not required) as a first course for those new to theological study.
Course Content
Unit 1: Faith Development
Unit 2: Scripture
Unit 3: The Creed/ Jesus Christ
Unit 4: The Church
Unit 5: Sacraments, Liturgy and Prayer
Unit 6: Morality
Mary Ellen Mahon
Mary Ellen Mahon holds a BA in theology from Trinity College, Washington, DC and a MA in Religious Studies from LaSalle University, Philadelphia, PA. She has been involved in catechetical ministry as a Parish Catechetical Leader and as a religion teacher in Catholic junior high and high schools. She has been a Master Catechist in diocesan catechist certification programs, developed lay ministry formation courses, a high school curriculum integrating Catholic Social Teaching and service and a child safety curriculum. She has facilitated retreats and days of prayer with adolescents and adults. Since 2004 Mary Ellen has been serving as Diocesan Director for Catechetical Formation for the Diocese of Manchester, NH.
Mary Jane Silvia
Mary Jane Silvia holds a BA in Religious Studies and English from St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN, and a MA in Pastoral Ministry from LaSalle University, Philadelphia, PA. She has been involved in catechetical ministry as a theology teacher in junior high and high school and served as a high school campus minister for 15 years. Mary Jane has also coordinated youth and young adult ministry for parishes. Her ministry has also included developing and implementing retreat experiences for youth and adults. From 2004 – 2008 Mary Jane served as Diocesan Director for Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Manchester and since then has been serving as Director of Campus Ministry at Rivier University, Nashua, NH.