Not only will Anna Hoefer '09 graduate with a B.A. in accounting from Saint Mary's - she'll also have a certificate in lay ministry to add to her resume. "One of the most important things I have learned in the lay ministry program is that while the ordained are usually called to serve within the context of a parish, the lay people are called to minister where they are," Anna says. The lay ministry certificate program, sponsored by Campus Ministry, provides students with hands-on ministry experiences to prepare them for future study and work in ministry.
Students in the lay ministry certificate program are required to complete related religious studies courses, while participating in Campus Ministry workshops and programs. They also get to shadow a minister, and participate in pilgrimage trips. As part of her studies, Anna was able to travel to Mexico, where she and other students stayed with the Sisters of the Holy Cross at one of their missions.
All of these experiences have rounded out Anna's vision of what it means to serve others. "I think it is unique that we are able to participate in the lay ministry program as undergraduates and that the program encompasses a wide variety of ministry experiences along with classroom education."
Anna and her fellow lay ministry candidates will automatically graduate with a minor in religious studies, along with a certificate verifying their accomplishments. Upon graduation, Anna will move on to a full-time position as an associate with PricewaterhouseCoopers in Indianapolis.
"I have learned more about the history of my own religion and of the experiences of other faith groups. I have especially enjoyed learning about the role of women as ministers. It has been a very empowering experience as a woman in the church," Anna explains. "I will have a unique opportunity to serve as a minister to my coworkers."