Lay Ministry

Called to Serve: The Role of Lay Ministers

Forming lay leaders for meaningful ministry in parishes, schools, and beyond

The number of laity responding to God’s call to ministry is increasing, lay women and men have become an integral part of the life and mission of St. Peter’s Seminary. Enrolled in either of the two degree programs being offered, our lay students are prepared for ministry in parishes, hospitals, schools, or wherever God is calling them to serve.

National Collaboration and Student Testimonies

Forming lay leaders for meaningful ministry in parishes, schools, and beyond

In 2023, the CCCB Episcopal Commission for Evangelization and Catechesis (ECEC) met with representatives of nine institutions (members of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCUC) and Canadian Catholic seminaries) to discuss their lay formation programs. As a result, the Office for Evangelization and Catechesis created an information resource bank with a list of lay formation programs and research projects that are offered at these Catholic institutions of higher learning. Click here for an overview of the adult formation programs offered by Canadian Catholic Universities, Colleges and Seminaries.

STUDENT FEEDBACK:

“Being able to complete my Masters of Divinity Degree at St. Peter’s Seminary was a wonderful opportunity. Being in a Catholic educational environment, St. Peter’s Seminary allowed me to fully explore not only the doctrines but also the spirit of my faith. I can honestly say that each course provided interesting insights and valuable knowledge which will significantly impact my future ministry. As a final thougth, the relationships I formed with my classmates and professors have given me great hope for the future as well as a strong community to access if I ever need spiritual guidance. These three years have been a blessing that I will cherish throughout my career and my walk.”

Dominica Julia Wozniak, M.Div. (’15)

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10

Degree Programs Overviews for Lay Students & How to Apply

The Master of Divinity Degree (M.Div.) and the Master of Theological Studies Degree (M.T.S.) Programs, offered at St. Peter’s Seminary, focus on the development of the whole person – human, intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral. Alongside the seminarians and in the spirit of co-responsible ministry, the lay students are challenged to enter into dialogue as they enhance their competency in scripture, liturgy, canon law, and other areas of theology. Women and men enrolled in the M. Div. program are provided with the opportunity to gain practical ministry experience through field placements in schools, parishes, healthcare institutions, and social outreach institutions with which the Seminary has partnered. St. Peter’s is a fully accredited member of the Association of Theological Schools.

The Master of Divinity (M. Div.) Program:

The M.Div. is a professional, theological degree providing a solid foundation in ministry. Graduates are found in, but not limited to, parish pastoral ministry, campus ministry, youth ministry, and diocesan offices.

Admission Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree with minimum 70% average from an accredited institution;
Introduction to Philosophy and Thomistic Philosophy pre-requisites or co-requisites;
Personal history;
Letters of recommendation;
No concerns on criminal records check;
Formal admissions interview and Psychological screening.

The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) Program:

The M.T.S. is a post-baccalaureate, academic theological degree for those seeking professional enrichment as teachers or catechists, or those who wish to grow in understanding of and witness to their faith.

Admission Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree with minimum 70% average from an accredited institution;
Thomistic Philosophy pre-requisite or co-requisite;
Brief life history;
Letters of recommendation;
Admissions interview.

Undergraduate Degree Students

Students enrolled at King’s University College, Western and its other affiliates colleges, are welcomed to fulfill some of their credit courses in Philosophy or Theology at St. Peter’s Seminary.

Non-Degree Courses for Lay Students

Lay people not wanting to commit to a degree program are welcomed to take courses on various levels:

Audit – a desire to grow in diverse areas of philosophy or theology without the commitment of submitting assignments or writing exams.
Credit – while not committing to a degree program, students fulfill all the requirements of a course, obtaining a credit. These courses could later be applied to an M.Div. or M.T.S. degree program if all other requirements are me.

Study & Support

The Faculty of St. Peter’s Seminary are recognized scholars with expertise in a wide variety of subject areas who convey a passion for teaching and formation of the student at all levels. Study can be full-time or part-time with the exception that one year of the M.Div. program must be taken full-time with required formation elements.

In our desire to enhance one’s learning opportunities, St. Peter’s Seminary has begun to offer occasional courses online.

Students have access to the vast collection of materials and resources available to them in the beautiful A.P. Mahoney Library (St. Peter’s Seminary), the Cardinal Carter Library (King’s University College), as well as Western’s Weldon Library and the affiliates’ libraries.

Supported by the Director of Lay Formation, our Lay Students are an integral part of the St. Peter’s Seminary community and are encouraged and welcomed to participate in the monthly Community Masses, as well as other Seminary events. Lay students have a dedicated lounge available to them where they can relax in between classes, come together for camaraderie, as well as gather for their monthly Lay Formation meeting.

Application Information

Deadline: July 1st
Bursary applications are available (contact the Director of Lay Formation for details)
Go to Admissions or contact the Office of the Registrar: 519-432-1824 or 1-888-548-9649

Degrees are awarded by Western University through the Seminary’s affiliation with King’s University College. Lay Graduates at St. Peter’s Seminary receive the annual Alumni Bulletin magazine and an Alumni Card.
- To register for an Alumni Card go to: https://alumni.westernu.ca/

Director of Formation: Contact

For more Information on Degree Programs for Lay Students or to schedule an appointment to discuss program options, please contact:

Dr. Bernardine Ketelaars
Director of Lay Formation,
519-432-1824 ext. 203 / 1-888-548-9649 ext. 203 or
Email: bgketela@uwo.ca

We look forward to the opportunity to journey with you through the process of ongoing formation.

Real Stories. Personal Callings.

Because God calls ordinary people to extraordinary paths.

“In the work of formation some convictions reveal themselves as particularly necessary and fruitful. First of all, there is a conviction that one cannot offer a true and effective formation to others if the individual has not taken on or developed a personal responsibility for formation: this, in fact, is essentially a “formation of self.”

Christifideles Laici (63)

Caroline Dupuis (Pastoral Ministry Certificate)

“God doesn’t ask us for the map, only for our yes.”

Despite uncertainty about where this would lead, Caroline Dupuis knew she needed to begin. Now she supports many others on the path.

Nikita Ariganello (Master of Divinity Degree)

Finding faith beyond obligation. Feeling supported at St. Peter’s Seminary.

Nikita shares her experience exploring her faith. A story of listening for God’s call – and learning to trust where it leads.

Laura Godts (Master of Theological Studies Degree)

An unlikely friendship reopened the door to faith for Laura.

Laura reflects on her journey from doubting and frustration to faith. Read more about how her path lead her to St. Peter’s seminary.

Caroline Dupuis

Vocation Story - Certificate in Pastoral Ministry

Caroline Dupuis’s Story

“God doesn’t ask us for the map, only for our yes.”

Despite doubts and concerns, Caroline enrolled in the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry – and was very happy she did.

Continue to Read Caroline's Story

When I enrolled in the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry at St. Peter’s Seminary, I wasn’t sure where it would lead. I only knew I felt God nudging me to begin. I thought the program would simply prepare me for a role in pastoral ministry. What I discovered was so much more, and it changed the course of my life.

At St. Peter’s, I found not only excellent teaching and formation, but also a community who supported me, prayed with me, and inspired me. The courses deepened my understanding of faith and ministry, and the setting itself, immersed in prayer and faith, gave me the courage to say yes to God in new ways. The friendships I formed and the wisdom of faculty and mentors continue to sustain me. That foundation opened doors I never expected.

After graduation, God led me to study Spiritual Direction at Loyola House in Guelph, where I learned how to accompany people in discovering God’s presence in their lives. From there, new ministries blossomed. I completed a three-year program in Senior Adult Ministry through the Johnson Institute, which helped me respond to the deep hunger among seniors who often feel overlooked. Out of this work grew Wings of Grace, a book now under review with Novalis, as well as weekly podcast reflections to help others begin their day with prayer and hope.

And the journey continues. This October, I will begin chaplaincy formation at Newman University, another step, another yes. I don’t yet know where it may lead, but I trust God will open the right doors in His time.

Through it all, I return again and again to Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to give you a future and a hope.” St. Peter’s Seminary was where I first dared to trust that promise, and where God built the foundation for everything that followed.

If you are wondering whether this program is for you, I encourage you: don’t wait until you know the ending. Say yes to the first step. In the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry, you will grow in faith, meet companions for the journey, and receive a formation that will serve you wherever God leads. The journey doesn’t end with graduation, it only begins.

Bio

Caroline Dupuis completed the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry at St. Peter’s Seminary and later trained as a Spiritual Director at Loyola House, Ignatius Jesuit Centre, in Guelph, Ontario. She also completed a three-year program in Senior Adult Ministry through the Johnson Institute. Her ministry includes accompanying seniors, writing Wings of Grace (now under review with Novalis), and sharing weekly podcast reflections. She will begin chaplaincy formation at Newman University in October 2025.

Nikita Ariganello

Vocation Story - Master of Divinity Degree

Nikita Ariganello’s Story

“What drew me to St. Peter’s Seminary to complete my Master of Divinity was being drawn to work with and help people.”

An honest reflection on faith, vocation, and discovering God along an unexpected path.

Continue to Read Nikita's Story

Finding Faith Beyond Obligation

Like all children, my faith was shaped by my family’s beliefs and values, which made little space for further spiritual exploration and finding my own faith journey. One thing that did seem to be consistent was this gravitation back to Christ and Christianity. I remember there was a point in my teens and early adult life where I felt like I needed a break from religion and church, to find my own relationship with God. My parents would lecture my siblings and I on the importance of attending church and having this relationship with God, but it felt very much forced like a chore. It was during this journey and self-exploration, I found myself gravitating back to God, on my own terms in what felt like an open and loving relationship, rather than one forced out of guilt. My parents raised me in different denominations of Christianity throughout the years, eventually becoming Pentecostal. Today, after my own journey, I identify as non-denominational Christian. I always found a beauty in the history and ritual practices of Catholicism. My husband is a non-practising Roman Catholic. My time at St. Peter’s Seminary allowed me to continue discerning my own faith journey and really solidified my own relationship with God. I was welcomed within the St. Peter’s Seminary community, where not only did I learn, but was able to take part and share in ecumenism. What we have in common is this deep, natural love for God.

A Calling Revealed Through Discernment

What drew me to St. Peter’s Seminary to complete my Master of Divinity was being drawn to work with and help people. I found myself in my final year of my bachelor’s at King’s College University, where I originally wanted to pursue law, but during a political science trip to Ethiopia, had discerned that I was likely on a different path. While at St. Peter’s Seminary, I was curious about the work the seminarians were doing that I looked into doing one of my field educations through a CPE unit at the Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health. It’s through this opportunity that led me wanting to combine my passion for spirituality and mental health, as I had family members experiencing their own mental health challenges. It’s what eventually led me to complete more schooling to become a Registered Psychotherapist. I absolutely love my work and where my vocation has taken me. I currently see clients virtually through a private clinic and work for a local agency that supports youth and their families through the Youth Justice System. In my work, I am able to support clients with their mental health, but as well, I am able to support clients on their own faith or spiritual journeys, whether that is God, Creator or creating deeper purpose and meaning. As I am present with clients, I reflect what it means to be a Christian through my work, such as being able to attentively listen, provide empathy, compassion and support, and being able to provide a non-judgemental space, meeting client where they are at, no matter where they may be coming from.

Being Formed by Community and Belonging

I will be forever grateful to Bernardine Ketelaars and the staff who supported me throughout my time at St. Peter’s Seminary. Though some things were unfamiliar to me, the community was very supportive, accommodating and understanding that I was coming from a different faith community.

Trusting God Through the Unknown

I learned along the way to put my trust in God. There were times where I wasn’t sure exactly where I was going, but learned to trust that I would end up exactly where I needed to be. Like most people, there were many challenges over the years, but I am grateful for the relationship I have with God, grounding me through the good, bad, the chaotic and the calm.

Laura Godts

Vocation Story - Master of Theological Studies Degree

Laura Godts’s Story

“It was through an unlikely friendship I made with Sister Mary Frances and her Supper Club at Brescia that the door to my faith was reopened in a way I would have never expected.”

Laura shares more about her journey to deepening her knowledge and faith.

Continue to Read Laura's Story

Foundations and Early Questions

I am a cradle Catholic who grew up always finding the time to go to Church no matter when Mass was or where we were. Even after attending Catholic school from Kindergarten through Undergrad, I often questioned, and at times, felt angry about aspects of the faith that didn’t make sense to me. As a young adult, the Church often felt more like a wall than a welcoming door. It was through an unlikely friendship I made with Sister Mary Frances and her Supper Club at Brescia that the door to my faith was reopened in a way I would have never expected.

Encounters that Opened Doors

When Undergrad was coming to an end, I was unsure of what I wanted to do next in my life. Despite not always living on Brescia’s campus, I continued to meet up with Sister Mary Frances, and it was her who encouraged me to look into the M.Div program. We spent many hours in conversation about faith, which deeply interested me. Sister Mary Frances greatly impacted my faith journey and she helped me to better understand what it meant to be a religious person but also an active lay person.

After thinking and praying on what she had said, I entered St. Peter’s Seminary in the M.Div program. That year opened up a flood of questions for me and it sparked a deeper desire to learn, even though I had grown up Catholic. During the first year, we were placed in field-education in a school. It was there that I worked with the Chaplain at a local school, and I witnessed faith being shared but I also began to recognize what the next step was for me in my life.

Teaching Ministry and Growth

I left the Seminary for two years to complete my teaching degree and once finished, I came back with a desire to learn even more. I switched to the M.T.S program, where I felt a new spark when reflecting on the role of young people in the Church and the wider community. I slowly worked through completing my degree in the evening. This wasn’t always easy but it was incredibly fruitful and allowed for great personal growth. Now I have been teaching for six years. I truly love to teach my students about faith in a way that will spark their interest, make them ask questions and want to learn more. Through this, my students were exposed to and made connections with some people who were in the process of becoming a priest.

Over the past few years, there have been many people who have encouraged me to become more involved in the Church community, they saw a spark but I just needed a nudge to get it going. A parish priest of mine invited me to help with Sacramental Prep and then RCIA and Alpha. Through the encouragement of the Pastoral Minister who recognized my teaching background, I began teaching both children and adults. Their impact and the conversations have encouraged me to ask why and not be afraid to offer my gifts.

Living a Lifelong Vocation

The programs at the Seminary were incredibly flexible and understanding of my work schedule. This flexibility and support of the Seminary community helped me complete the program. The professors and staff always found a way to help and encourage me to meet the requirements on time, especially when I was looking to take a class each term. I formed a number of lasting and meaningful relationships while I was at St. Peter’s Seminary. God always had a plan for me and it was never one or the other, teaching or learning.

Towards the end of my time at St. Peter’s, I was often asked ‘So now what?’ For me, there is no end to learning, growing and discovering new opportunities. I see this in parish ministries, in gatherings of young people, and in my role as a teacher. I want my students to see that Christ can be a part of everyday life, not just in Church. To witness Christ is to see that God’s love can be found everywhere. Taking the first step to learn more about our faith is often the hardest part but it opens us to the deeper ‘why’ behind what we believe and do as Roman Catholic Christians.