Pastoral Spanish

The Pastoral Spanish Program at Notre Dame recognizes a growing Latino population, capitalizes on the strengths of the University and supports the work of the Church.

Dedicated to meeting the educational needs of the community and the Church, Notre Dame of Maryland is pleased to offer a Pastoral Spanish program through its Office of International Programs.

Program features

• exploration of the culture, history and faith expressions of the diverse Latino population
• teaching of conversational Spanish and language skills for pastoral care
• discussion of the complexities of ministry to Hispanic communities

Latinos in the U.S.

• Latinos are the largest ethnic group in the United States.
• Baltimore City has more than 26,000 and Baltimore County has nearly 33,700 residents of Latino origin (2010 Census).
• Recent sources estimate that 40 percent of U.S. Catholics are Latino, and this number is expected to increase significantly in the next 20 years (U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops).

Spring 2012 Programs

Apply now by downloading the Spring 2012 application

Spanish Language and Culture for Pastoral Settings (Part 1)

No prior experience in Spanish is necessary.

Evening Class

February 21 – May 1, 2012 (excluding 4/10)
Tuesdays, 6 to 8 p.m.

Afternoon Class

February 21 – May 1, 2012 (excluding 4/10)
Tuesdays, 3 to 5 p.m.

at the Feeley International Center

This course is for professionals or volunteers who currently work with or will work with Latino communities in parishes, schools, hospitals or other pastoral settings. There is a language and a cultural component. The language component enables one to learn basic conversational skills and elemental phrases to better communicate with Spanish-speaking persons. Good pronunciation, listening and speaking skills are emphasized. The cultural component emphasizes the spirituality and faith expressions of Latinos.

Spanish Language and Culture for Pastoral Settings (Part 2)

Prerequisite: Part 1 of the course or equivalent.

February 20 – April 30, 2012 (excluding 4/9)
Mondays, 3 to 5 p.m.

at the Feeley International Center

This follow-up course to Spanish Language and Culture for Pastoral Settings (Part 1) continues to emphasize good pronunciation and speaking skills. It provides greater emphasis on grammar, especially the past tense, in order to increase conversational skills. There will be a continued cultural component to deepen understanding of the Latino community.

Fees for courses:

$400; Group rate: $1,050 for three participants (by February 6, 2012)
$425; Group rate: $1,125 for three participants (after February 6, 2012)