Intercultural Competency
Program Goals
In an intensive, supportive five-day residential program in "Intercultural Competency," for participants who have already developed "survival skills" "and have conversational ability in English will focus on these goals:
- Church Development in U.S.: Gain an overview of the development of the Catholic Church in the pluralistic, religiously diverse U.S. and discuss Models of Church and Roles of Priests within that context.
- Anthropological and Sociological Issues: Engage in discussions on culture, gender, race, family, multiculturalism, cultural bridges and the acculturation process itself to discern differences between one’s native culture and U.S. culture(s).
- Psychological Issues: Reflect on the issues of stress, creativity, self-knowledge and personal growth which the acculturation process engenders.
- Priest as Leader, Team-member and Collaborator: Grow in appreciation of the need in organizations for servant leadership and discuss with experienced pastors the issues of acculturation in the parish and rectory.
- Church Structure and Collaboration: Study overall church structure in the U.S. and the roles of clergy and laity within the parish and diocesan organizations.
- Interpersonal Communications: Recognize the complexity and centrality of communication to ministry and engage in practice sessions which focus on cultural differences.
- Pastoral Communications: Reflect on attitudes and skills which enhance pastoral communication with special emphasis on reading and preaching.
- Time Management: Learn time management skills which contribute to a healthy and productive work ethic and life style.
- Immigration and Legal Issues: Discuss legal issues, immigration and pastoral concerns.
- Liturgical Sharing: Share Liturgy (Eucharist and Divine Office) as a way of building community.
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Relationships: Establish relationships with other international priests as a means of support.
Syndicate