Resources for Educators
The McGrath Institute for Church Life partners with Catholic dioceses, parishes and schools to address pastoral challenges with theological depth and rigor. In gratitude to you, our partners throughout the country, we have assembled the following resources especially for those involved in Catholic education and faith formation.
The Catholic Schools and Democracy Summit
Join Catholic school educators, academic experts, and other stakeholders to discuss critical issues and generate key insights that will contribute to the development of programs and scholarship to enhance how Catholic schools support democracy. During this interactive online gathering consisting of four 90 minute real-time sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with a community of practice to consider the preparation of Christian citizens and means for doing so, as well as the challenges involved and resources required. A certificate of completion indicating 12 contact hours will be granted for participation in the sessions and completion of online assignments.
REGISTER FOR THE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS AND DEMOCRACY SUMMIT
Summer Online Professional Development for Teachers
STEP for Catholic School Professionals offers quality, online, professional development on topics of interest to Catholic school personnel in a flexible format that is tailored for busy professionals. In $99 courses (less for those in partner dioceses), expert facilitators guide small cohorts (25 or fewer other learners) as they engage in synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences. Early registration is encouraged as spots are limited. Some courses may count toward diocesean catechist requirements or for continuing education credit. Contact step@nd.edu with questions.
Courses for Summer 2025
- Liturgy in Catholic Schools
- Environments for Flourishing: Classroom Management in a Catholic School
- Teaching Religion in a Catholic School
- The Body and Beyond: Human Sexuality Education from a Catholic Perspective
- Teaching 21st Century Skills in Catholic Schools
- Christian Doctrine for Catechists III
- Foundations of Catholic Belief
- Liturgical Theology
- Pro-Life Ethics in a Throw-away Culture
- El Camino de la Fe
Downloadable Resources
Access a wide range of free resources including teaching materials, prayer guides, research reports, active publications and more.
Pro-Life Curricula
Integrate the teachings of the Catholic Church on life and human dignity into secondary academic curricula.
VIEW PRO-LIFE CURRICULA RESOURCES
Institute Blog
Learn what other Catholics are doing to live and hand on their faith in Jesus Christ, especially in the family, home and parish, and find inspiration to live out the fullness and richness of your faith in the simple, little ways that make up Church life.
VISIT THE MCGRATH INSTITUTE BLOG
Online Theology
Take courses developed by university professors and earn Certificates of Catholic Theology in five areas of study. Our online theology is designed especially for leaders active in a parish, school or other workplace. Courses are available in both English and Spanish.
BROWSE THE ONLINE COURSE CATALOG
Science & Religion Initiative
Strengthen the dialogue between science and religion in your diocese, school and parish by attending a summer seminar. Gain access to a library of curriculum resources and a national network of successful science and religion teachers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SUMMER SEMINARS
Academic & Pastoral Conferences
Attend one of the academic and pastoral conferences sponsored by the McGrath Institute throughout the year. Most conferences take place during the summer at the University of Notre Dame and are designed specifically for active professionals like liturgists and catechists, science and religion teachers or campus and youth ministers.
Campus Events
Attend events on campus at the University of Notre Dame. Events are free and open to the public and range in scope from prayer services and liturgy to academic talks and presentations.