The Apostolate for Lay Ministry Support (ALMS) offers a comprehensive program of formation, education, and guidance to lay people in ministry or being called to serve in the lay apostolate. ALMS is dedicated to calling the lay faithful to a more intentional expression of their Catholic faith through contemplative prayer, service and community. Through study, reflection, meditation and mentorship, ALMS achieves its goals of enriching Parish life, preparing the lay faithful for fruitful ministry and growth in personal holiness.
ALMS Certificate Program
The ALMS certificate program prepares lay, clergy, and consecrated people for authentic Catholic ministry that both enhances parish life and prepares graduates to participate in the pastoral mission of the Catholic Church.
Participants receive information about the essential elements of missionary discipleship. This includes spiritual, theological, and pastoral skill building essentials for authentic Catholic ministry.
The entire program takes two to three years to complete. Students can enroll for the program individually or as part of a parish group. There is also an option to audit units as an Observer.
We try to keep program and materials fees minimal to encourage participation. Please explore our scholarship and group discount opportunities if cost is a concern.
Program Timeline & Outline
The ALMS certificate program is a two-year program, with an optional third year for those interested in leadership roles. In-person classes meet once a week for two hours throughout Connecticut.
Year 1
Each unit is 7 weeks.
Unit 1: Lumen Gentium
Unit 2: Contemplative Prayer and Mystical Theology
Unit 3: Catholic Social Teaching
Unit 4: Advanced Catechism
Year 2
Each unit is 7 weeks.
Unit 1: Intro to Pastoral Ministry
Unit 2: Life in the Spirit
Units 3 and 4: Mentorship and Ministry Integration
- Specialization and independent study relative to individual ministry of choice
- Advanced Year Retreat
Year 3 (Optional 3rd Year for Leadership)
Each unit is 8 weeks.
Unit 1: Community and Growth
Unit 2: Communication and Administration
Unit 3: Pastoral Leadership
Unit 4: Graduation Project and Retreat Experience
Enrollment Types
Those interested in the ALMS certificate program can choose from three enrollment tracks:
- Member: Enroll as certificate student for the two or three-year program.
- Observer: Enroll as an “Observer” for a specific Unit as a mini-course.
- Cenacle Member: Parishes may enroll groups of 4 or more for a 25% tuition discount.
Program Cost
We encourage your participation with the following budget-friendly features:
- Affordable program fees
- Minimal text book fees
- Scholarships
- Group enrollment discounts
Enroll Now!
Contact the Office of Missionary Discipleship to begin our simple application process.
Support Lay Ministry
Your donation helps ALMS sponsor retreats, training, and educational events that support the pastoral mission of the Archdiocese of Hartford and provide ongoing enrichment of lay ministers in active service.
Contact Us
Please contact us with any questions about the program.
We are located at:
Pastoral Center
467 Bloomfield Avenue
Bloomfield, Ct 06002
860-541-6491
Email us:
Dcn. Jason Rinaldi, MAPM, LMSW, Director, Office of Missionary Discipleship
Dayanee Olivieri, Bilingual Program Coordinator, Office of Missionary Discipleship