By Christian Coffman

NATCHEZ — Earning a master’s degree in religion will no longer require attending a college many miles away. This September, a religion college comes to Natchez.

This fall, Loyola Ministry Institute of New Orleans will offer a graduate theology program in cooperation with St. Mary Basilica.

Through the program, applicants can earn a master’s degree or acquire continuing education certificates in religious education or pastoral studies or they can earn a diploma in theology and ministry.

Only those pursuing a master’s degree will be required to do major research and write papers.

The course work will be offered at the St. Mary Family Life Center and will be coordinated by Loyola faculty.

The graduate theology program was previously offered in 2009 and 2013 in Natchez and saw 10 graduates through its doors.

One alumni of the 2013 Loyola program, Charles Garrity, said the program helped him to grow in his faith.

“This study program not only gave me an in-depth understanding of the Church teachings but also a new appreciation for my Catholic faith, he said.

The program consists of 12 courses, the first half will be offered in Natchez and will focus on the Catholic faith. The second half will be offered online. Classes and study sessions can be taken individually or in a group setting.

Participants will meet 10 times for each three-hour course at a day and time to be decided on when class members first meet.

St. Mary Youth Director Carrie Lambert is registered for the upcoming program and is pursuing a master’s degree in religious education.

“(I am doing it) for my youth ministry so that I can be a better-informed leader among the younger population,” she said.

Interim project coordinator Donna Martello said the church will pay a third of its member’s costs and the diocese in Jackson will pay another third.  Individuals will have to pay the rest, she said.

“We’re hoping that the other churches and dioceses will do the same,” Martello said. “If there’s a Catholic church in Vicksburg, hopefully they will help … by sending people who are interested in pursuing their education, (which would) get the program off the ground.”

Martello said the classes are not limited to Catholics, but those of different faiths would not be eligible for the tuition assistance the local church and state diocese provides.“We have 12 applicants who are ready to participate in the program,” Martello said. “It is an unbelievable opportunity for those who want to expand their faith and give back to their community.”

The Rev. David O’Connor, pastor of St. Mary Basilica said the program makes earning a theology-based degree easily accessible and personally fulfilling.

“This theology program is an opportunity for teachers to earn a master’s degree without leaving home, for clergy and parish leaders who are interested in continuing education, and for church members seeking personal updating and enrichment,” O’Connor said.

The deadline for registration is July 15. For more information contact Martello at Saint Mary Basilica at 601-445-5616 or ProgramCoordinator@cableone.net.