Institute for Lay Ecclesial Ministry (ILEM)

Interested in a robust Catholic leadership program? This 23-credit hour formation program consists of ministry training that combines theological studies with human, spiritual and pastoral formation, culminating in a special commissioning by the Archbishop of New Orleans as a Lay Ecclesial Minister.

The Institute for Lay Ecclesial Ministry (ILEM) of Notre Dame Seminary is a 23-credit hour formation program for leaders and essential volunteers in ministry and teaching designed to create a community of well-formed and well-educated laity culminating in a public commissioning ceremony by the Archbishop of New Orleans. ILEM students are immersed in a rigorous academic and pastoral formation program that includes the same four dimensions of formation that are integral to diaconate and priestly formation. As detailed in the USCCB document Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord and after successful completion of the program, both new and veteran lay ecclesial ministers are sent forth to catechize, form, and evangelize others.