a Live online course with an optional certificate

The School of Pastoral Leaderhsip in collaboration with the Office of Human Life & Dignity is pleased to announce an online course called Immigration: The In-Between Life Issue. 

How is immigration a life issue? Isn't it simply a matter of political policy--over which Catholics may certainly disagree? The Church's position on provocative topics like abortion is well-known. However, the spiritual and intellectual sources behind the headlines--the Catholic social tradition (CST)--is less known.  In fact, it has been called "the Church's best kept secret." CST provides the foundation for the Church's consistent life ethic, an understanding of life issues that extends beyond abortion to include physician-assisted suicide and capital punishment. The Church's view on immigration, and support for immigrants, draws on the same CST resources. This course will examine these sources--ranging from Scripture to papal encyclicals and recent bishops' statements--to appreciate immigration's position, particularly in the American context, as another "life issue" worthy of Catholic consideration.

Students who attend all classes in the course and pass a multiple choice test at the end will be issued a Certificate of Completion.

About the PROFESSOR

Dr. Jeffrey Marlett

Jeffrey D. Marlett is a professor of religious studies whose primary interests are American studies, all areas of Roman Catholic studies, and religious histories of rural America. "Story, location, and belief—the particularities of these three elements have always animated my research interests," the author notes in his faculty profile on the College of St. Rose website. Marlett has also taught a wide variety of religious studies and philosophy courses, covering topics such as ethics, mysticism, world religions, Biblical studies, and the history of Christianity.  




 

Class Schedule

Classes are on 6 consecutive Tuesdays beginning September 22 at 7:00 P.M.  Classes are taught using Zoom.

9/22: Introduction
9/29: Catholic social justice, 7 principles (USCCB)
10/6: Vatican II and American Catholic historical examples
10/13: Recent papal statements (St. John Paul II to Francis)
10/20: USCCB documents on immigration (and current issues)
10/27: Summarizations

FRequently asked questions

What kind of computer do I need to attend?
Our course will be made interactive using a free video conferencing software called "Zoom".  It is very to install and even easier to use.  Typically, any inernet connected PC or Mac that is under 10 years old will work.  You can also login to the course using a smart phone or personal device like an iPad.  If you don't have a computer, you can also call in to the course.  However, we highly recommend you use a computer as this course will include visuals that you will not be able to see if you call in.  For a list of full requirements, visit here.

Will there be quizes, tests, or grades?
Be at peace!  There are no mandatory tests. However, if you'd like to take a test at the end and pass, a Certificate of Completion will be awarded to you.

If I can't make a class, will the lectures be available online later?
Yes.  All courses will be recorded so that you can watch or re-watch at a later time.

Can I get college credit for this course?
This will be a non-credit course.  However, in the very near future we will be partnering with St. Patrick Seminary to provide course credits that can be used towards a certificate in Pastoral Leadership.

How much does this course cost?
Six weeks of online classes will cost $20 per person.

Are scholarships or grants available? 
Yes. We have included in our registration payment form an option for persons who have the means to sponsor persons who cannot afford to enroll in this course.  Please email Deacon Fred Totah and explain to him your extraordinary circumstances that would make you unable to pay for this course.

What is the School of Pastoral Leadership?
The Archdiocese of San Francisco will relaunch the School of Pastoral Leadership this Fall.  The School will help form lay leaders in the Church to be effective catechists and evangelizers in the San Francisco Bay Area through providing quality college-level courses.  These courses can count towards a certificate.

What is the Office of Human Life & Dignity?
The Office of Human Life & Dignity collaborates with parishes, ministries, the California Catholic Conference, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholic Charities, Catholic Relief Services, and other social justice and interfaith organizations to address and support the seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching. 

What if I have questions that aren't listed here?
Feel free to reach out to Deacon Fred Totah, Director of the Office of Pastoral Ministry by email or calling (415) 614-5504.

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