English / Spanish Language Programs

Programs Goals

The goals of the Language and Cultural Studies Program are to help students become pastorally proficient in a second language and to develop interest, openness, and sensitivity to other cultures. The program is designed to prepare seminarians to preach the word of God clearly and persuasively, counsel the people of God in a sensitive manner and celebrate the sacraments with an awareness of the cultural richness that characterizes our globalized Church. (Back to the top)

English Curriculum

Most students, whose first language is not English, are required to complete the TOEFL before admission to the Master of Divinity program. Students who score below 500 on the TOEFL may be placed in the full time Joint ESL Program offered in conjunction with St. John's Seminary College. Students who score below 550 on the TOEFL will be placed in language classes which are integrated into a program of Theological studies at St. John's Seminary.

Classes offered include English Pronunciation, Applied Pronunciation, Voice and Diction, and English Composition. (Back to the top)

Spanish Curriculum

Most students, whose first language is not Spanish or who have not completed their university level studies in Spanish, are required to take an exam to determine placement in language classes.

Classes offered include Pastoral Spanish (Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced), Spanish Grammar/Composition, Argumentation/Debate, and graduate theological courses offered in Spanish. (Back to the top)

Proficiency Exams

All third year students take a second language proficiency exam in the following areas: conversation, listening, comprehension, writing, and reading. Students are evaluated by a qualified board of community members. (Back to the top)

Liturgy

The liturgy of the mass and the office are celebrated  weekly in Spanish. Through the celebration of liturgy, all students have the opportunity to pray and worship in a second language, while at the same time, growing in understanding and appreciation of worship within a cultural context other than their own. (Back to the top)

Summer Language Immersion

During the summer following their second year of studies Spanish language students spend two months in Mexico, living with Mexican families, studying in an academic setting or working in a pastoral environment. English language students, likewise, spend this time working in a predominantly English-speaking parish while they live with an American family or in a rectory and take additional courses in English, as needed. (Back to the top)

Field Study

Through pastoral field education, students encounter opportunities to use their second language, to learn about other cultures, and to process the effectiveness of their ministerial skills.