Saints Aquila, Pricilla (left) and Lydia (right)
Pastoral associates in the Apostolic Church, but without the formal title

Vocation of the Pastoral Associate
Like their apostolic ancestors, the pastoral associate is a servant leader who supports the pastor’s sacramental and pastoral vocation by overseeing any combination of human resources, information technology, facility maintenance, finance and front-line pastoral needs of a parish or parish network.  A pastoral associate might develop financial reports, onboard new staff, implement an ecumenical food bank, respond to urgent calls for pastoral help (“doorbell needs”) and everything in between.

Overview of Formation Program
The program consists of an eight-month calendar of events that mostly meet at the Pastoral Center. It includes ten learning modules plus special gatherings and a supported practical experience (the “practicum”).   Although in-person participation is strongly preferred, module presentations are available via Microsoft Teams for those who live a distance from the Center or have other significant needs.  We will all meet via Microsoft Teams during January and February.

Due to the collaborative effort of diocesan staff and other leaders, presentations, gatherings and handouts are offered without charge, but participants will be responsible for obtaining some reading materials. 

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate of recognition from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, which they may use to pursue employment within the diocese.