Saint Brendan's School of Celtic Studies for the Apostolic Free Celtic Church
Embracing Celtic Wisdom in Christian Education
Introduction
Welcome to Saint Brendan's School of Celtic Studies, a beacon of knowledge and spiritual enlightenment. Here, we honor the timeless yearning for wisdom, understanding, and a deeper connection with God, embracing the rich tapestry of Celtic Christian traditions. Just as the Celtic monks of yore sought to explore the mysteries of the divine and the world around them, our institute is a sanctuary for those drawn to a sacred calling. Our purpose is to prepare individuals for Holy Orders within the Apostolic Free Celtic Church. We operate with the, championing the preservation and continuation of the profound Celtic Christian heritage.
Our Mission
Saint Brendan's School of Celtic Studies is dedicated to forging profound connections with God, fostering deep relationships among individuals, and nurturing an intimate understanding of the Word of God and Christian traditions. Our mission is to equip those who are called to serve as Ordained Clergy within the Apostolic Free Celtic Church, eliminating the need for traditional seminary education. We heed the timeless directive of seeking the ancient paths, where true rest for the soul may be found (Jeremiah 6:16).
Program Overview
Our program is a flexible and transformative journey that spans 12-18 months. It is tailored for mature individuals over the age of 21 who are responding to God's calling to pursue Holy Orders. Candidates are accepted and approved by our esteemed Bishops, Columcille and Alban, within the Apostolic Free Celtic Church. Each student is encouraged to have a Spiritual Director or Anamchara (Soul-Friend), and a Mentor (Senior Priest or Bishop) will be assigned to provide guidance throughout their formation. While there is no rigid timeframe for course completion, a dedicated student can typically conclude the program within 18-24 months.
The Program Stages
- Stage One: Introduction to the Celtic Church and The Independent Catholic Movement
In this initial stage, we warmly welcome individuals who may have limited prior knowledge of the Celtic Church and the Independent Catholic Movement. Here, we embark on an exploration of the fundamental principles and historical roots of Celtic Christianity plus Independent Catholicism, providing a solid foundation for the journey ahead.
Stage Two: Spiritual and Personal Formation
The second stage delves deep into the realm of spiritual and personal development. It equips students with the necessary disciplines to fully embrace the Celtic way of life, as practiced within the Religious Communities of the AFCC. This stage is all about opening oneself to the transformative work of God, fostering unity in faith, and gaining a profound understanding of the Son of God. Ultimately, it leads to spiritual maturity.
Stage Three: Biblical and Theological Studies
In the third stage, we turn our focus to the rich tapestry of the Holy Scriptures and Traditions, grounding students in a robust Christian worldview. This comprehensive phase encompasses a detailed study of both the Old and New Testaments, delves into historical contexts, and explores the intricate web of theology.
Stage Four: Transformational Leadership
The Transformational Leadership stage is specially designed for those with a burning ambition to lead spiritually. It nurtures a noble desire to serve Christ and His kingdom, facilitating personal and spiritual transformation. Graduates emerge as equipped leaders, ready to guide others on their transformative journeys.
Stage Five: Church Polity
In the final stage, students gain insight into the inner workings of local communities within the Apostolic Free Celtic Church. This phase is dedicated to understanding the governance and organization of our faith community, preparing individuals to play a pivotal role in our sacred mission.
Each stage of our program is meticulously crafted to foster a profound connection with the Celtic Christian tradition, empowering individuals to embark on their journey toward Holy Orders within the Apostolic Free Celtic Church.
Course Completion and Graduation
Upon successfully completing the program, candidates will be awarded a Diploma of Study in Theology. Graduates are required to submit written papers, engage in oral and written examinations, and participate in practicum ministry under the guidance of their local Bishop.
Five Key Aspects of Our Program
- A deep commitment to cultivating an intimate relationship with God, characterized by a passion for His Word, personal obedience, spiritual hunger, and a life of holiness and maturity.
- A dedication to building loving and covenantal relationships with others, marked by integrity, respect, justice, service, reconciliation, and a skill for bridging gaps in a diverse world.
- The development of a theology of Spiritual and Personal Formation deeply rooted in Scripture and Tradition, enriched by historical experiences of the Holy Spirit, and guided by a critical examination of Celtic Christian practices.
- A profound self-awareness of one's calling, gifts, and vulnerabilities, enabling the maintenance of healthy boundaries, responsible use of authority, and a sensitive response to the pain of others.
- A commitment to a lifelong journey of personal and professional development, characterized by honesty, accountability, and holistic well-being, encompassing spiritual, emotional, physical, financial, and relational dimensions.
Ordination and Vocation
It is vital to understand that not all who desire ordination should, or will, be ordained. The path to ordination is a journey of discernment, and Saint Brendan's School of Celtic Studies stands ready to assist those genuinely called to serve in this sacred capacity.
A Little About Our Programs
At the Apostolic Free Celtic Church, we proudly uphold an independent study program, catering to those with a heartfelt calling to serve as priests and members of the hierarchy within our jurisdiction. Our courses are structured for self-paced learning, allowing seminary students to engage with the course materials by studying the recommended texts on our list. Communication with our bishops can occur through email, telephone, letters, or in-person meetings to discuss progress and seek guidance. Committed individuals who complete the entire course curriculum are subsequently ordained as sub-deacons, deacons, or priests and are encouraged to embark on their own mission apostolate.
Our course offerings are flexible and may vary based on text availability, pricing, and other factors. In instances where recommended texts are no longer in print, we diligently seek suitable replacements to ensure the continuity of our educational program. The necessary textbooks can be acquired through major retailers such as Barnes & Noble and Amazon or directly from our website.
Eligibility and Application
To be considered for our independent seminary studies program, candidates should meet the following criteria:
- Candidates can be male or female, meeting the legal age requirements for minor orders up to the priesthood, with a preference for women to the order of deaconess.
- Marital status can be either married or unmarried; however, permanent status is determined at the time of deaconate bestowal.
- Good health is essential for candidates.
- Candidates should possess a strong moral foundation and demonstrate an aptitude for intellectual study.
- Completion of at least secondary education is required, with higher education experience as a bonus. A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory.
- While two years of college or equivalent education are preferred, exceptions can be made based on life experience.
- Candidates should embody a strong sense of piety and a willingness to dedicate themselves entirely to Jesus Christ and the service of others.
- Ideally, candidates should be employed and have relative freedom from excessive indebtedness.
Candidates applying for the program should provide the following primary documents or make prior arrangements with our chancery:
- A copy of their birth certificate
- Baptismal and Confirmation certificates or suitable records confirming completion.
- High school and college transcripts
- A letter from a physician affirming good health
- A resume outlining the candidate's study and work history (Curriculum Vitae)
- Letters of recommendation from two priests, bishops, or professionals who can attest to the candidate's character.
- A criminal record check, typically obtainable from local law enforcement
- Two passport-sized photos
In the application process:
- Start by composing a personal letter to one of our local bishop ordinaries and the Seminary Board, requesting entrance into our program. In your letter, please share your background, your calling, and your reasons for wanting to study with us and be ordained by AFCC's bishops. This letter allows us to better understand your aspirations and discern your vocation as you progress in your studies.
At the Apostolic Free Celtic Church, we are committed to supporting your journey towards priesthood and helping you fulfill your divine calling. We also offer special "dispensationary" plans to alleviate the financial burden of study, provided that candidates apply to the chancery, supply the necessary documents, transcripts, and papers, and demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of any courses already completed, whether through formal education, independent study, or practical knowledge.
contact bishop llewellyn macrae @ [email protected] for more information
Courses
* Please note those coming from a none sacramental church background must STL 107 before STL 103, and those coming from a sacramental background will doing curriculum as written below,
STL-101 Introduction
The Many Paths of the Independent Sacramental Movement by John P. Plummer
STL-102 Introduction to Celtic Christian Thinking and Spirituality
The Celtic Way of Prayer: The Recovery of the Religious Imagination Paperback by Esther De Waal
God Under My Roof by Esther De Waal
Praying with the Celts Poems Selected by G.R.D Mclean
The Soul of Celtic Spirituality, the Lives of its Saints by Michael Mitton
STL-103 Scriptural Studies
A Reading Overview (9) This course provides the student with a foundation of both Old Testament and
New Testament theology and history. Students are expected to read specific sections of the Old
Testament and all of the New Testament. This course must be completed by the end of the program.
Required resources: The Holy Bible, The Douay-Rheims or King James with Apocrypha version or the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
STL-104 Interpretation of Scriptures
Required resources:
Hermeneutics: Principles and Processes of Biblical Interpretation by Henry A. Virkler
Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner's Handbook by John H. Hayes and Carl R. Holladay
Reading Scripture with the Church Fathers by Christopher A. Hall
A Metaphysical Interpretation of the Bible by Steven L. Hairfield Phd
The Good Book; Reading The Bible with Mind and Heart by Peter J. Gomes
Speaking the Truth in Love , How to be an Assertive Christian by Ruth N. Koch and Kenneth C. Haugk
STL-105 The Contemplative Tradition
The core practices of the Apostolic Free Celtic Church the Light are service and contemplation. This course provides the student with a detailed look at the contemplative tradition.
Required resources:
Morning and Evening Prayer of the Apostolic Free Celtic Church ( AFCC) in developement.
A Seven Day Journey With Thomas Merton by Esther De Waal
A Praying Life By Paul E. Miller
In Heaven as On Earth By M. Scott, Peck M.D
The I That Is We: Awakening to Higher Energies Through Unconditional Love by Richard Moss
Optional Readings:
Sadhana, a Way to God: Christian Exercises in Eastern Form. Bourgeault, C. (2006).
Chanting the Psalms. Freeman, OSB, L. (2009).
Christian Meditation: Your Daily Practice. Merton, Thomas OCSO, and and Kidd, S. M. (2007).
The New Seeds of Contemplation.
Christian Meditation: Experiencing the Presence of God. Anonymous (14 th Century).
The Big Book of Christian Mysticism: The Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality. Finley, J. (2005).
STL-106 The Monastic Tradition
This course explores what it means to be a monastic and provides the student with the knowledge and
skills necessary live a modern monastic life.
Required Resources:
Monastery Without Walls: Daily Life in The Silence and either Janzen, D. (2012)
Meditations By Thomas Moore
Optional Readings:
The Intentional Christian Community Handbook: For Idealists, Hypocrites, and Wannabe Disciples of Jesus or Rutba House. (2005).
School (s) for Conversion: 12 Marks of a New Monasticism (New Monastic Library: Resources for Radical Discipleship)
***STL-107 Liturgy and Sacrament (3)
This course is designed to prepare students to conduct religious services at home, a monastery or church that are true to the modern interpretation of Sacramental Christianity. In this course, in addition to reading and completing the required essays, students will also be expected to outline a number of Sacramental Christian services. And as part of this course, the student is expected to either show in person, video conferencing or video electronic taping of themselves performing one of the approved liturgies of the society to their convening bishop or mentor for observation on their understanding of the rubrics, vestments, and the mechanical use of the liturgical tools such as patent, chalice, finger bowl, and other instruments of the liturgical services within the Eucharistic Services (Mass).
Required resources:
The Magic of Ritual by Tom F. Driver
Orthodox Dogmatic Theology by Fr. Michael Pomazansky
Doors to the Sacred: A Historical Introduction to Sacraments in the Catholic Church, rev. ed.(Tarrytown, NY: Triumph Books, 1991) by Joseph Martos,
Introduction to Christian Worship Revised by James F. White
The Celtic Daily Prayer by the Northumbria Community
The Complete Liturgy for the Independent, Mystical and Liberal Catholics by Archbishop Wynn Wagner
Optional Readings:
The Study of Liturgy, rev. ed. (New York: Oxford University Press, 1992) by Cheslyn Jones, Geoffrey Wainwright, Edward Yarnold, Paul Bradshaw, eds.
Ordination Rites of the Ancient Churches of East and West by Paul F. Bradshaw
STL-108 Christian History and Theology
The Early Church By Henry Chadwick
Learning Theology with the Church Fathers by Christopher A. Hall
Christian Theology: An Introduction By Alister E McGrath
The Christian Theology Reader By Alister E McGrath
Mere Apologetics: How to Help Seekers and Skeptics by Alister E. McGrath
Apologetics: A Justification of Christian Belief by John M. Frame and Joseph E. Torres
b. Liberation and Holistic Theology
http://home.earthlink.net/~ronrhodes/Liberation.htm
The Evangelical Universalist by Gregory Macdonald
The Cambridge Companion to Liberation Theology by Rowland, Christopher
Sacred Gaia: Holistic Theology and Earth System Science by Anne Primavesi and James Lovelock
Sophia-Maria: A Holistic Vision of Creation by Thomas Schipflinger
STL-109 Celtic Christian History and Tradition
Myths, Celtic Legends. by Celtic Stewart, R. J.
Bards by Celtic Stewart, R. J. and Williamson, R.
Celtic Christianity; A sacred tradition , a vision of hope by Timothy Joy
How the Irish Saved Civilization by Thomas Cahill
The Last of the Celts by Marcus Tanner
Optional:
McNeil, John T., The Celtic Churches: A History, A.D. 200 to 1200
Mackey, James, An Introduction to Celtic Christianity
Scherman, Katherine, Flowering of Ireland: Saints, Scholars, and Kings, New York
STL-110 Mysticism and Christianity
The Essential Writings of Christian Mysticism (Modern Library Classics) by Bernard McGinn
The Pillars of the Temple by Markus Van Alphen
A New Vision of Reality: Western Science, Eastern Mysticism and Christian Faith by Bede Griffiths
Carmina Gadelica
STL-111 Comparative Religion Studies
Understanding World Religions by George Braswell
The World's Religions, Revised and Updated by Huston Smith
Invitation to World Religions by Jeffrey Brodd
STL-112 Ethics and Pastoral Care
Ethics In Ministry by Walter E. West, Walter E. Wiest
Ethics in Pastoral Ministry by Richard M. Gula
Ministerial Ethics: Moral Formation for Church Leaders by Joe E. Trull and, James E. Carter
Solution-Focus Pastoral Counseling by Charles Allen Kollar
Christian Caregiving; A Way of Life By Kenneth C. Hauk
Reconciling Community by Charles H.Warnock
STL- 113 Preaching-Homiletic
Interpreting The Gospel; An Introduction to Preaching by Roger J. Allen
Expositional Preaching: How We Speak God's Word Today (9marks: Building Healthy Churches) by David R. Helm
A Guide To Preaching and Leading Worship by William H. Willimon
All persons going though this course must do at 3-6 months worth of session with Toastmasters to fulfill this requirement, as well a record not only a sermon but also a homily,
for the sermon the time limit is no more than 15-20 minutes
For The Homily no more than 5-7 minutes
The reason for this is to help develop effective communication skills for ministry and outreach for the postulant.
STL-114 Missiology and Church Planting
The Church as Movement: Starting and Sustaining Missional-Incarnational Communities by JR Woodward
The Relational Way: From Small Structures to Holistic Life Connections by Milton Scott Boren