Honoring Mary,
Our Blessed Mother

Being a part of the University of Dayton—a Marianist Catholic university—May holds special significance for the VLCFF. It is the month traditionally dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God and the first disciple of Christ. As a Marianist institution, we are deeply rooted in a tradition that honors Mary’s pivotal role in the story of salvation and seeks to emulate her faith, courage, and openness to God's call.

Throughout May, we are reminded of Mary’s ongoing presence in our lives and the Church. To deepen your understanding and devotion, the VLCFF offers a variety of online courses focused on Mary, as well as a 5-course certificate program. These courses invite participants worldwide to grow in their faith through the lens of Mary’s inspiring example.

Join us in celebrating Mary this month and every month, by learning more about her life and mission.

Ready for Cycle 4?

Registration is now open for Cycle 4 courses! Classes will run from June 2 through July 6, 2025, and we invite you to continue your faith formation with us this summer.

Our online courses are asynchronous, instructor-led, and thoughtfully designed to fit into your busy life, offering the flexibility you need while still providing rich interaction and community support. We will offer over 50 course topics in English, Spanish, and Arabic, covering a wide range of areas including catechesis, scripture, Church history, liturgy, social justice, and spirituality. Many of our courses also fulfill diocesan certification and continuing education requirements.

Registration for Cycle 4 will close on May 28, 2025, so now is the perfect time to explore your options and secure your spot.

Take advantage of the summer months to deepen your faith, enhance your ministry skills, and grow in knowledge and discipleship.

Take a minute to browse the full course calendar and register. Feel free to contact us with any questions about our program. We look forward to accompanying you on this journey of lifelong learning!

Featured Certificate Program:
Marian Studies

At the VLCFF, we are proud to offer the Marian Studies Certificate Program, a unique opportunity to explore the life, mission, and spiritual significance of Mary, the Mother of God. As part of the University of Dayton—a Marianist Catholic university—this program reflects our deep commitment to promoting Marian scholarship and devotion.

The Marian Studies Certificate offers an in-depth look at Mary’s role in Scripture, Tradition, theology, and devotion across cultures. Through courses such as Introduction to Mariology, Mary in Scripture and Tradition, and Marian Doctrine and Devotion, participants will deepen their understanding and appreciation of Mary’s central place in the Catholic faith.

This program is ideal for catechists, pastoral leaders, educators, and anyone seeking a richer relationship with Mary. It’s designed to be flexible, fully online, and accessible to learners worldwide.

Check out our Certificate Programs page to learn more and begin your journey into the rich and beautiful world of Marian Studies!

Cycle 4 Featured Course:
An Introduction to
Catholic Doctrine on
the Blessed Virgin Mary

This summer, we invite you to deepen your understanding and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary through our Cycle 4 featured course, 'An Introduction to Catholic Doctrine on the Blessed Virgin Mary.'

Over five weeks, participants will thoughtfully engage with the Church’s foundational teachings on Mary, exploring her role in salvation history through Scripture, Tradition, and the official teachings of the Magisterium. Key topics include Mary’s title as Theotokos (Mother of God), her Immaculate Conception, Perpetual Virginity, and her glorious Assumption. The course also offers a rich reflection on Marian devotion and its essential place in the life of the Church and personal spirituality.

Designed for catechists, pastoral leaders, educators, and all who seek to draw closer to Mary, this course offers an accessible yet profound journey into Marian theology. It is also a core requirement for those pursuing the Marian Studies Certificate.

Cycle 4 begins June 2 and concludes July 6, 2025. Join us as we journey into the mystery of Mary’s role in our faith and grow together in knowledge and devotion.