Congratulations Deacon Tapia!

Cycle 6: Registration Open!

Answer the Church's call. Prepare to evangelize. During the month of August, the Pope invites us—through his prayer intention—to renew our commitment to the mission of evangelization. To proclaim Christ with joy, we must know our faith, live it, and share it with others.

The Virtual Faith Formation Community offers you the opportunity to grow spiritually, personally, and pastorally alongside Catholic students and leaders from various dioceses and countries. Our fully online courses allow you to delve into the richness of the Church's tradition and strengthen your service within the community.

Whether in Mariology, leadership and pastoral ministry, liturgy, or Biblical studies, Cycle 6 has something for every disciple. Click here to view the Cycle 6 English course schedule and register by September 3rd! Don't miss this opportunity! Join an international learning community and strengthen your faith to better serve your parish, ministry, and community. Evangelization begins with knowing Christ and allowing Him to transform our lives.

Connecting with Marianist Roots

Over 175 years ago, the University of Dayton was founded by the Marianists, a religious community of brothers and priests dedicated to the mission of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which emphasizes education, the family spirit, service, and social justice. Today, the Marianist family extends to the Marianist Sisters and even an active lay-community. Being a part of the University, we at the VLCFF honor these roots and often find ourselves seeking our own kind of formation in the Marianist charisms. Recently, we've been doing this by inviting a number of prominent Marianist associates to speak to our team and help us "integrate Marianist intentionality" into our 2030 strategic plan. Guests have included Jessica González Uhlig, program administrator for NACMS, and Rob Brodrick, the National Director of the MLC-NA.

We also got to sit down with Fr. Ted Cassidy SM, who was previously a resident Marianist at the University, and the dedicated celebrant of the monthly Masses we hold at our home office. We are so grateful for all of these individuals who have inspired us to remain rooted in our Marianist-inspired mission.

The Global Impact of the IPI

Grounded in our pastoral mission, we're always striving to expand our global reach; delivering vital, accessible theological education to dioceses, parishes, and individuals worldwide, and recently, we got to welcome some visitors that reflect how far this reach has gone.

First, we had the privilege of having a brief in-person visit from Bishop Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa, the current Bishop of the Diocese of Kabgayi in Rwanda. Last year, this diocese joined the other 70+ dioceses that are currently global Diocesan Partners with us, resulting in fruitful collaborations in all our faith formation efforts. We were blessed to be able to meet him face-to-face and chat about our ministries! Additionally, we had other guests visit us from Trinidad & Tobago's Living Water Community (another Partner of ours), including the Foundress of the community, Rhonda Maingot, the current Director, Rosemary Scott, and the parents of one of Sister Angela Ann's past students.

We whole-heartedly cherish these rare moments of in-person fellowship, and continue to be grateful for all the collaboration and wisdom we've gained from our Partners!