Higher Diploma in Pastoral Liturgy
The one-year programme in liturgy, conducted by the National Centre for Liturgy, offers candidates the opportunity to study liturgy under its theological, historical, spiritual and pastoral aspects. It is planned to meet the needs of people for their future or continued work in liturgy at parish, community or diocesan level.
Admission Requirements
A primary degree in theology, or with a major theology component is required.
Students with a degree without a theological component or with a professional diploma or equivalent qualification may be admitted if they have experience in parish or liturgical ministry. They may be required to take extra courses in theology, and to take an oral examination while studying for the Higher Diploma in Pastoral Liturgy.
Programme of Study
The course is a taught programme through lectures, workshops and practical sessions.
Tutorial assistance is available to students and this can enable them to concentrate on particular aspects of liturgy.
The main areas of study include: theology and practice of liturgy, eucharist, sacraments, lliturgy and time, prayer and liturgy spirituality, human communication in liturgy, music. Complementary courses include: The Bible in Worship, Early Christian Worship, Eastern Rites, Church Art and Architecture, Ministry, Liturgy and Culture, Liturgy and Pastoral Care.
Students for the Higher Diploma in Pastoral Liturgy take guided reading courses in the main courses of study. They are required to take part in two seminars on pastoral liturgy and liturgical theology.
