Course Objectives

By the end of the program, students will:

• Master the rubrics governing the seven sacraments.

• Understand the theological significance of sacramental actions.

• Apply proper liturgical gestures, movements, and postures.

• Gain confidence in conducting sacramental rites with accuracy and pastoral sensitivity.

Course Outline

Module 1: Foundations of Practical Ministry

• Introduction to the course and objectives

• The theology of sacramental action

• Understanding liturgical rubrics

• The significance of manual acts in Catholic worship

Module 2: The Celebration of the Eucharist (Holy Mass)

• Step-by-step instruction on saying Mass

• Liturgical gestures and postures

• Where to stand and why: altar dynamics

• Handling the sacred vessels correctly

• The role of the celebrant and assisting clergy

Module 3: The Sacrament of Baptism

• Proper administration of water and sacred chrism

• Pronouncing the baptismal formula

• Conducting the rite with pastoral sensitivity

Module 4: The Sacrament of Confirmation

• Correct anointing practices

• Liturgical gestures and prayers

• The bishop's role versus priestly faculties

Module 5: The Sacrament of Reconciliation

• Liturgical structure of Confession

• Clerical posture and gestures

• Pronouncing absolution correctly

Module 6: The Sacrament of Matrimony

• Properly witnessing a Catholic marriage

• Liturgical formulations and blessings

• The significance of clerical presence

Module 7: The Sacrament of Holy Orders

• Laying on of hands and its meaning

• Anointing the ordinand

• Understanding ordination rubrics

Module 8: The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick

• Correct application of anointing oils

• Liturgical prayers for the sick and dying

• Clerical presence and pastoral care

Module 9: Liturgical Vestments and Sacred Vessels

• Correct usage and significance of vestments

• Handling and reverence for sacred vessels

Module 10: Assessment and Practical Demonstration

• Final practical evaluation of sacramental execution

• Theological reflection on practical ministry

• Concluding pastoral application discussion

Assessment

1. Practical Demonstration (Video-Based Assessment)

Candidates submit recorded demonstrations of sacramental celebrations, ensuring they correctly follow rubrics. Faculty review posture, gestures, pronunciation, and adherence to liturgical norms.

2. Oral Examination

Live one-on-one sessions where candidates explain the theological significance of sacramental acts, demonstrating both knowledge and pastoral reasoning.

3. Written Reflections

Essays exploring the historical, theological, and liturgical foundations of each sacrament, reinforcing scholarly analysis alongside practical execution.

4. Peer Review and Discussion

Candidates engage in structured online discussions, critiquing each other's understanding and execution of sacramental rites.

Until 30.09.25

Certificate in Practical Ministry

Course Description

The Certificate in Practical Ministry is an advanced online seminary course designed for clergy from independent Catholic jurisdictions who wish to deepen their liturgical and pastoral skills. This course provides detailed one-to-one video instruction that follows the established rubrics of the seven sacraments, ensuring the faithful execution of every element in the liturgical celebration. For example, participants learn precisely how to say Mass—including where to stand, when to perform specific gestures, and why each action holds theological and pastoral significance.

Integral to the course is a focus on the manual acts of the sacraments. These acts are the prescribed physical gestures and actions—such as hand movements, postures, and ritual placements—that convey the sacred mysteries in a tangible way. They are essential to maintaining liturgical order and enriching the spiritual experience, ensuring that the profound traditions of the Church are observed with both reverence and accuracy.