SAINT THOMAS SEMINARY

BLOOMFIELD, CONNECTICUT

COURSE OFFERINGS
SPRING 2020 - FALL 2024

ARCHDIOCESE OF HARTFORD
 Certificate Programs

CONTENTS
ACADEMIC CALENDAR.................................................................................... 6

SAINT THOMAS SEMINARY

Statement of Mission.......................................................................................7
History...............................................................................................................7
Purposes and Objective...................................................................................8
Location.............................................................................................................9
Facilities.............................................................................................................9
Library..............................................................................................................11

ADMISSIONS
Who May Apply?...........................................................................................12
Admission Requirements..............................................................................12
Application Process.......................................................................................12

FINANCIAL MATTERS
Tuition and Fees.............................................................................................13
Refund Policy..................................................................................................13
Tuition Charges Refund Schedule...............................................................13
Schedule of Refunds on Tuition...................................................................13
Leave of Absence............................................................................................14

REGISTRATION
Adding/Dropping a Course.........................................................................14
Withdrawal from a Course...........................................................................14

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND RECORDS

Academic Integrity........................................................................................15
Grading System..............................................................................................16
Good Standing................................................................................................17
Academic Review Policy...............................................................................17
Class Attendance............................................................................................17
Grade Reports.................................................................................................17
Student Records..............................................................................................17
Student Rights Regarding Student Records...............................................18
Transfer Credits..............................................................................................19
Prior Learning.................................................................................................19
Certificate Completion..................................................................................19
Incompletes.....................................................................................................20

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

Leave of Absence.............................................................................................20
Withdrawal from a Program..........................................................................20

CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
Certificate in Biblical Studies..........................................................................21
Certificate in Religious Studies......................................................................24

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Certificate in Biblical Studies (All courses are 4.5 credits)
CBS 100: Old Testament Foundations: Genesis through Kings................22
CBS 200: New Testament Foundations: Jesus and Discipleship...............22
CBS 300: Old Testament: Exile and Restoration..........................................23
CBS 400: Old and New Testaments Concluded: The Word in the Hellenistic
World.................................................................................................................23

Certificate in Religious Studies (All courses and practicums are .75 credits)
CRS 111 Introduction to the Diaconate.........................................................24
CRS 112 History of the Christian Tradition..................................................24
CRS 113 Faith and Reason...............................................................................25
CRS 114 Field Education in Social Justice.....................................................25
CRS 211 Systematic Theology.........................................................................25
CRS 212 Sacraments.........................................................................................25
CRS 213 Moral Theology.................................................................................26
CRS 214 Field Education in Healthcare........................................................26
CRS 311 Christian Spirituality........................................................................26
CRS 312 Old Testament...................................................................................26
CRS 313 New Testament.................................................................................26
CRS 314 Field Education in Catholic Schools...............................................26
CRS 411 Canon Law.........................................................................................26
CRS 412 Liturgical theology/ Homiletics I....................................................27
CRS 413 Homiletics II/ Practicums in Baptism, Marriage, Funerals..........27
CRS 414 Field Education in Catholic Parishes.............................................27

BOARD MEMBERS.................................................................................................28

ADMINISTRATION...............................................................................................28

FACULTY.................................................................................................................29

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 Certificate Programs

ACADEMIC CALENDAR
The Certificate in Biblical Studies program and the Certificate in Religious
Studies program are designed so that students can complete coursework and
all related requirements within four years.

Course Offerings for the Certificate in Biblical Studies:

CBS 100 Offered each year, beginning in September
CBS 200 Offered each year, beginning in September
CBS 300 Offered every second year, beginning in September 2022
CBS 400 Offered every second year, beginning in September 2021

Course Offerings for the Certificate in Religious Studies:

CRS 111 Beginning in September 2023
CRS 112 Beginning in January 2024
CRS 113 Beginning in March 2024
CRS 114 Beginning in September 2023

CRS 211 Beginning in September 2020

CRS 212 Beginning in January 2021
CRS 213 Beginning in February 2021
CRS 214 Beginning in September 2020

CRS 311 Beginning in September 2021

CRS 312 Beginning in January 2022
CRS 313 Beginning in February 2022
CRS 314 Beginning in September 2021

CRS 411 Beginning in September 2022

CRS 412 Beginning in January 2023
CRS 413 Beginning in March 2023
CRS 414 Beginning in September 2022

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

SAINT THOMAS SEMINARY

SAINT THOMAS SEMINARY, located in Bloomfield, Connecticut, was

established in 1897 by the Right Reverend Michael Tierney, the sixth Bishop
of Hartford, for the purpose of training young men for ministry in the
Roman Catholic Church. Throughout the course of the last one hundred and
twenty-three years, over 5000 students have passed through the halls of the
Seminary, receiving academic as well as spiritual formation. Many of these
alumni went on to become priests and have served the Church well in a
variety of capacities, some even attaining the rank of bishop. Many others
have been active lay members of the Church and have assumed significant
roles in esteemed professions throughout the world.

The goal of the Seminary since its founding has been the formation of
candidates for ministry in the Church as priests, deacons, and lay ministers,
and this remains its primary goal and purpose. With the restoration of the
diaconate as a permanent order in the hierarchy of the Church in 1972, and
with the rise in the numbers of lay men and women seeking to be involved in
active ministry, the mission of the Seminary has broadened correspondingly.
The Seminary seeks to form candidates for a variety of ministries in the
Church today, training them in theological studies and forming them
spiritually under the sponsorship and the authority of the Archbishop of
Hartford. It is anticipated that many of those who complete the program of

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 Certificate Programs

study leading to a Certificate in Biblical or Religious Studies from Saint

Thomas Seminary will use that knowledge in service to the People of God in
the parishes of the Archdiocese of Hartford.

The Certificate Programs at Saint Thomas Seminary were initiated in 1999 to

extend the mission of the Seminary. The Certificate in Religious Studies was
accredited by the State of Connecticut, Department of Higher Education in
1999. The college-level certificate programs offered by the Seminary are
geared very specifically toward formation for various forms of ministry in
the Roman Catholic Church, although admission to the certificate programs
is not limited to Roman Catholics. Saint Thomas Seminary offers these
programs in response to the need for well-trained ministers in several areas
of Church life, encompassing the priesthood, the diaconate, and the lay
ministry. The Archdiocese of Hartford envisions the Seminary as an
umbrella institution for ministerial formation. Thus, the certificate programs
are applicable to those seeking priestly vocations, those preparing for
diaconate ordination, and members of the laity seeking professional
expertise as catechists and lay ministers. The potential student body may
also include men and women who are interested in enriching and deepening
their knowledge of the Catholic faith and the Catholic tradition.

The certificate programs at Saint Thomas Seminary make use of some

excellent resources, namely a fine library, a well-trained and experienced
faculty, and access to broad expertise in varied areas of Church life. The
certificate programs at the Seminary operate under the authority of the
Archbishop of Hartford. While there are programs of study in the field of
religion leading to a bachelor’s degree available in several institutions of
higher learning in the greater Hartford area, the certificates in religious and
biblical studies offered at Saint Thomas Seminary are unique in their specific
sponsorship by the Roman Catholic Church and their distinct orientation
toward ministry.

Purposes and Objectives

In keeping with the mission of Saint Thomas Seminary to form candidates
for ministry in the Roman Catholic Church, the following purposes and
objectives have been established:
1. To prepare candidates seeking a vocation in the priesthood.
2. To prepare candidates for diaconate ordination or for a variety of
forms of pastoral ministry.

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

3. To prepare individuals seeking deepened theological knowledge,

both for personal spiritual enrichment and for preparation for lay
ministry in the Church.
4. To continue to work toward the vision of Saint Thomas Seminary as
an umbrella institution for ministerial formation.

Location
Saint Thomas Seminary is located within the Archdiocese of Hartford
Pastoral Center (Pastoral Center) at 467 Bloomfield Avenue in Bloomfield, CT.
situated on 80 acres of land just three miles north of Hartford.

Facilities
The Archdiocese of Hartford Pastoral Center (Pastoral Center) opened in
1930. The facilities offer office spaces, conference rooms, classrooms,
dormitory style guest rooms, and recreational facilities. The gothic-style Saint
Thomas Chapel has the distinction of being one of the most prestigious in the
State of Connecticut. The priceless stained glass windows from Great
Britain depict a dozen scenes from Scripture. With a capacity of 400, the
Chapel is conducive to any liturgical service.

The Pastoral Center maintains classrooms and a large lecture hall available to
the Certificate Programs.

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In addition to the Bloomfield Campus at the Pastoral Center, Saint Thomas

Seminary holds classes and events in a variety of locations throughout the
Archdiocese of Hartford, i.e., in Hartford, Litchfield, and New Haven
counties, as follows:

 Saint Mary-Saint Michael School, 14 Seymour Avenue, Derby, CT

06418
 Caritas Christi Center, 295 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514
 Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish Center, 2819 Whitney Avenue,
Hamden, CT 06518
 Trinita Retreat Center, 595 Town Hill Road, New Hartford, CT
06057
 Saint Aloysius Parish Center, 254 Burritt Street, Plantsville CT 06479
 Saint Dominic Parish Center, 1050 Flanders Rd, Southington, CT
06489

Saint Thomas Seminary meets the code requirements for accessibility and
fire safety. A Master Plan has been developed for accessibility and safety
and is continuously reviewed. A full-time general manager oversees the
physical operation of Saint Thomas Seminary, and a full-time facilities
manager works under the direction of the general manager.

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

Library
The Saint Thomas Seminary Library, known as the Archbishop O’Brien
Library, is located at the facility. The library has collections primarily in
philosophy and theology with some additional volumes in literature,
psychology, and history as well as a reference section and an archive
accessible for research and study.

The total number of volumes in the collection is approximately 30,000. Of

these, approximately 15,000 are philosophical and theological works. The
archive is a collection of approximately 3,000 books and manuscripts. These
include 15th -17th century theological works and 18th-19th century Catholic
Americana and history.

The library currently receives subscriptions to 37 journals and newspapers.

The bound periodical collection numbers approximately 4,150 volumes. In
addition, vast library resources are available to students through the
Hartford Consortium for Higher Education of which Saint Thomas
Seminary has been a member since 1977. Members of the O’Brien Library
also have library privileges at libraries of other member schools, including
the University of Hartford, Trinity College, Saint Joseph College, Hartford
Seminary and the University of Connecticut, Greater Hartford Campus.

The O’Brien Library at Saint Thomas Seminary uses the Fulfillment

interlibrary loan system and is a member of the ReQuest iConn statewide
database which makes access to all of the collections of Connecticut’s
academic, public, school and special libraries possible through sharing of
resources. In addition the iConn database makes available a variety of
journal, reference and research databases that are accessible to students for
extended research purposes.

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 Certificate Programs

ADMISSIONS
Who May Apply?
Saint Thomas Seminary welcomes applications from adult students of all
ages, all nationalities, and all ethnic, racial, and religious groups.

Admission Requirements
1. To be admitted for study toward the Certificate in Biblical Studies or
the Certificate in Religious Studies, applicants must:
2. Have a high school diploma or have passed an equivalent exam
(G.E.D.), as recognized by the State of Connecticut.
3. Submit an application for enrollment no later than August 31st of
the year of expected enrollment.
4. Attend an interview with the Chair of the Biblical Studies Program
or with the Chair of the Religious Studies Program.
5. Submit an application fee.

Application Process
Classes for the Certificate in Biblical Studies and for the Certificate in
Religious Studies are held at the Archdiocese of Hartford Pastoral Center in
Bloomfield, CT and satellite locations. Virtual learning options are also
available in many cases. An application and further information
regarding the schedule for classes and fees may be obtained by contacting:

Chair of the Certificate in Biblical Studies

Saint Thomas Seminary
467 Bloomfield Avenue
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Phone: (860) 242-5573, ext. 2679
www.catholicedaohct.org
Email: CatholicBiblicalSchool@aohct.org

Chair of the Certificate in Religious Studies

Saint Thomas Seminary
467 Bloomfield Avenue
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Phone: (860) 242-5573, ext. 3112
Email: Gail.Bellucci@aohct.org

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

FINANCIAL MATTERS
Tuition and Fees
Tuition for the Certificate Program in Biblical Studies and the Certificate
Program in Religious Studies is a flat fee of $380.00 per year of study. An
administrative fee of $80.00 is also assessed and is due upon enrollment on an
annual basis, in the fall.

Refund Policy
Payment of all fees is required at registration, unless special arrangements
have been made through the Academic Dean. These exceptions will be made
in writing, signed by the student and the Academic Dean, and kept on file
until such time that all fees are paid.

To drop a course, the student must fill out the appropriate form and return it
to the Office of the Academic Dean. Failure to attend class or to merely give
notice to the course instructor of intent to drop a course does not constitute
official dropping of the course. Failure to follow this policy within the time
frame allowed for dropping a course (see below) will result in a full charge to
the student.

Note: Students who are unable to successfully complete a course due to a

medical or family emergency must send a letter to the Academic Dean, along
with appropriate medical documentation in order to be considered for a
refund.

Tuition Charges Refund Schedule

For students who withdraw, drop out, are dismissed, or take a leave of
absence from their studies at Saint Thomas Seminary, the refund schedule
below will be applied towards tuition fees. Please be aware that, based on
the refund calculation applied, a student is still responsible for any
outstanding fees owed to Saint Thomas Seminary.

Schedule of Refunds on Tuition Fees

100% refund: Up to Friday of the week of the first class meeting
80% refund: Up to Friday of the week of the second class meeting
50% refund: After Friday of the second week of class up until
Friday of the fourth week of class
0 % refund: Anytime after Friday of the fourth week of class.

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Leave of Absence
To apply for a leave of absence, students must complete the appropriate
form and have it signed by the Academic Dean. Students who are in good
standing and who complete the Leave of Absence form remain enrolled in
the Seminary for up to two semesters (one academic year) and do not need
to reapply in order to return.

REGISTRATION
A student may register for the certificate programs during the official
registration period prior to the start of classes. All registration forms must
be signed by the Chair of the Certificate Program in which the student is
registering. All fees must be paid at the time of registration unless other
arrangements have been made with the Academic Chair. Students may
enroll in no more than two courses simultaneously unless written
permission has been given by the Academic Dean.

Adding/Dropping a Course
Students may fill out an Add/Drop form to add or drop a course after they
have registered. Add/Drop forms must be completed prior to the start of the
second week of class. Students who drop a class are eligible for a refund
only if the course is officially dropped during the timeframe stated in the
Refund Policy section of this catalogue.

Withdrawal from a Course

Students wishing to withdraw from a course must complete the appropriate
form. A “W” will appear on the student’s transcript, but a grade will not be
considered in calculating the cumulative average. The same schedule for
refunds is followed for withdrawal from a course.

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND RECORDS

Academic Integrity
In accordance with Saint Thomas Seminary’s mission and objectives,
academic dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Violations of
academic integrity include, but are not limited to, the following:

a. Plagiarism: The presentation of another’s writing or another’s ideas as

one’s own without citation;
b. Cheating: The use or provision of any unauthorized assistance when
completing an exam or individual assignment;
c. Falsification: The fabrication of signatures, notes, reports, data or
other academic information; the submission of reports, papers or
exams prepared by a person other than the student; the purchasing
or selling of term papers or other academic materials;
d. Procurement: The distribution or acceptance of prior or current
assignments, exams or other academic matter without the
permission of the instructor;
e. Co-submission: The submission, without permission of the instructor, of
academically required materials previously or contemporaneously
submitted in whole or in substantial part in another course.

A faculty member who has knowledge that a student has violated the policy
on academic integrity will respond as follows:

1. The faculty member and student resolve the matter on their own,
and the resolution is recorded on a Violation of Academic Integrity
form signed by both parties and filed with the Office of the
Academic Dean.
2. If a resolution cannot be reached, the faculty member will file a
Violation of Academic Integrity form with the Office of the
Academic Dean. This form must contain specifics of the complaint,
attempts to resolve the issues with the student, and a suggestion for
sanctions.
3. The Academic Dean will review all information, confer with the
faculty member and student, and make a final decision.

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Sanctions for violations of academic integrity are as follows:

First offense: Failure of the assignment or the course.

Second offense: Dismissal from the Certificate Program and from Saint
Thomas Seminary. The student may reapply after one full academic year.
There is no guarantee that the student will be accepted back into the
program.

At every step in the process, the student retains the right to review and rebut
the accusations of academic misconduct and the evidence that supports
them. If the student disagrees with the decision of the Academic Dean, he or
she may appeal to the President-Rector of Saint Thomas Seminary whose
decision is final.

Grading System
Coursework in the Certificate Programs at Saint Thomas Seminary will be
evaluated as follows:

To be eligible for the Certificate in Biblical Studies or the Certificate in

Religious, students must pass each course with a grade of “C” or better.

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

Good Standing
To remain in good standing, students must pass each course with a grade of
“C” or better and maintain a cumulative grade point average (G.P.A.) of 2.0
or better. Students with less than a 2.0 G.P.A. or with one or more grades
below a “C” in any semester will be placed on Academic Review.

Academic Review Policy

Students with less than a 2.0 G.P.A. or with one or more grades below a “C”
in any academic period will be placed on Academic Review and will be
required to meet with the Program Chair and/or Academic Dean to discuss
their academic progress and plan for improvement. Students who earn three
or more grades below a “C” may be dismissed from the program.

Class Attendance
To receive academic credit for any course, students must attend at least 80%
of class meetings as specified in the syllabus.

Grade Reports
Final grade reports are recorded and made accessible to individual students in
the official online database, STSRegistrar at the end of each academic period.
(The standard academic period in the Certificate of Religious Studies is one
semester; the standard academic period in the Certificate of Biblical Studies is
one year.)

Student Records
Records for students and alumni are maintained by the Seminary Registrar.
Records for current students are filed in the main office of the Seminary.
Records of students who have completed a program five years ago or longer
are filed in the Seminary vault.

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 Certificate Programs

Student Rights Regarding Student Records

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students
certain rights with respect to their education records:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records

within 45 days of the day the institution receives a request for access.
Students must submit to the Academic Dean a written request that
identifies the records they wish to review. The Academic Dean or his
or her designee will make arrangements for access and notify the
student of the time and place where the records may be reviewed.

2. The right to request an amendment to the student’s educational

3. records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading.
4. Students must write to the institution responsible for keeping the
record, identify the part of the record they would like changed, and
specify why they believe it is inaccurate or misleading. If the
5. institution does not amend the record as requested by the student,
the institution will notify the student of its decision and advise the
student of his or her right to a formal hearing regarding the request
for an amendment.

6. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable

information contained in the student’s educational records, except to
the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One
exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to
school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official
is an individual employed in an educational institution in an
administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff
position (including law enforcement personnel or health staff); a
person or company with whom the institution has contracted (such
as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); the National Student
Loan Clearinghouse; a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a
student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or
grievance committee, or assisting another school official in
performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate
educational interest if the official needs to review an education
record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon
request, the institution discloses education records without consent
to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

enroll (FERPA requires an institution to make a reasonable attempt

to notify the student of the records request unless the institution
states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on
request.)

7. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education

concerning alleged failures by the institution to comply with the
requirements of FERPA. The address for filing such a complaint is

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

Transfer Credits
A limited number of transfer credits may be accepted by Saint Thomas
Seminary and applied toward credit in the Certificate in Biblical Studies or
the Certificate in Religious Studies. Such credits must have been completed
prior to entrance into either certificate program and must be equivalent in
content to the courses offered. Transfer credits must have been completed
with a grade of “B” (3.0) or better within the previous five years from an
accredited institution. Decisions regarding transfer credits are made on an
individual basis by the Academic Dean. All requests to transfer credits must
be made in writing to the Academic Dean prior to starting either certificate
program.

Prior Learning
Because of the specific purposes of the Certificate in Biblical Studies
Program and the Certificate in Religious Studies Program, Saint Thomas
Seminary does not award credit for prior learning.

Certificate Completion
In order to qualify for the Certificate in Biblical Studies or the Certificate in
Religious Studies, candidates for the Certificate must,
1. Have completed all course requirements as outlined in this
catalogue and on course syllabi.
2. Be in good standing by having maintained a G.P.A. of “C” (2.0) or
higher.
3. Paid all tuition and any related fees.

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Incompletes
A student who has not fulfilled requirements of a course because of serious
illness or other justifiable cause may request the instructor to grant an
incomplete for the course. It is up to the discretion of the instructor to grant
or deny the request.

If the request for a grade of Incomplete is granted, the instructor determines

the amount of time a student will be given to complete requirements for the
course. The grade of Incomplete, however, must be cleared by the student
no later than the end of the first four weeks of the following semester.

The “Request for an Incomplete Grade” form must be filled out, approved
and signed by the course instructor and approved and signed by the Chair
for the program in which the student is enrolled. A student who requests a
grade of Incomplete must be doing passing work in the course at the time he
or she requests the Incomplete. No grade of Incomplete will be given
without this form.

Leave of Absence
Students who wish to take a leave of absence from a certificate program
should fill out the Leave of Absence form and return if to the Office of the
Academic Dean. Students who return within one year to the certificate
program do not need to reapply for admission. Students who are absent for
more than one year must reapply for admission.

Withdrawal from a Program

Students who decide to withdraw from the Certificate in Biblical Studies
Program or the Certificate in Religious Studies Program must provide
written notification to the Chair of the program. The policy on tuition refund
remains in effect.

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS OVERVIEW

Certificate in Biblical Studies
The Certificate in Biblical Studies is a part-time program which is completed
over the course of four years. This program consists of four required courses
for a total of 18 credits. It provides intensive study covering every book of
the Bible in the following sequence:

CBS 100 Old Testament Foundations – Students learn skills for studying and
praying with Scripture, focusing on the foundational books of the Old
Testament.

CBS 200 New Testament Foundations – Students learn skills for studying and
praying with Scripture, focusing on the foundational books of the New
Testament.

CBS 300 and 400 Advanced Biblical Studies – Students sharpen their
interpretation skills while covering the remaining books of the Old and New
Testaments.

Continuing enrichment opportunities are offered for graduates of this

program.

Additional Requirements for the Certificate in Biblical Studies

“Scripture Days”
Two one-day components (known as Scripture Days) for each course (CBS
100; CBS 200; CBS 300; CBS 400) will be offered for students matriculating
towards the Certificate of Biblical Studies every academic year. That is, two
Scripture Days will be made available each year to students in CBS 100; two
Scripture Days will be made available each year to students in CBS 200; and
two Scripture Days will be available each year to students in the Advanced
Year course offering (CBS 300 or 400—depending on which course is being
offered that year).

Summer Book Reports

Texts for the written book reports will be assigned every year in June.
Assignments must be completed by the first Scripture Day each academic
year and achieve a grade of “C” or better.

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Integral Challenges
In addition to completing all required course work, to be awarded the
Certificate in Biblical Studies students must complete at least one Integral
Challenge (additional assignment) to be eligible for a grade of “C”; complete
at least three Integral Challenges to be eligible for a grade of “B”; complete at
least five Integral Challenges to be eligible for a grade of “A.”

Certificate in Biblical Studies—Course Descriptions

CBS 100: Old Testament Foundations: Genesis through Kings

(4.5 credits)
Students begin this year-long course of study with an intensive six-hour
class and a book report on a scholarly monograph covering introductory
issues in biblical studies. Throughout the year, students learn the
interpretive and exegetical methods of encountering the biblical texts by
engaging in a comprehensive study of the Pentateuch (Torah) and the
“historical” works of the Old Testament. Students read major portions of the
assigned biblical books as well as secondary sources that provide historical,
cultural, religious and literary insights into the scriptural texts—including
careful study of the most significant geography of biblical lands from the
eighteenth century BCE to the sixth century BCE. Students engage the texts
by means of weekly written assignments and have opportunities on a weekly
basis to place their understanding of the biblical texts in the context of their
lived faith experiences by means of reflection and discussion in small
groups. In the spring, students engage in a four-hour intensive study on a
biblical topic of contemporary interest. A comprehensive exam completes
each of the three units of study in this course.

CBS 200: New Testament Foundations: Jesus and Discipleship

(4.5 credits)
This year-long course of study continues from CBS 100, developing
students’ understanding and use of the interpretive and exegetical methods
of engaging the biblical texts. Students focus on the foundational texts of the
New Testament. They begin by completing a book report on a scholarly
monograph covering New Testament Christology, followed by a six-hour
introduction to the literature of the New Testament and the historical and
social-political context of the New Testament writings. Then, over the course
of weekly classes, students obtain a firm grasp of the basic Christian story of

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God’s saving action through Jesus of Nazareth and continuing in the

community of disciples. Students read major portions of the assigned
biblical books as well as secondary sources that provide historical, cultural,
religious and literary insights into the primary texts—including careful
study of the geography of biblical lands in the first and second centuries CE.
Students engage the texts through weekly written assignments and have
opportunities on a weekly basis to place their understanding of the biblical
texts in the context of their lived faith experiences by means of reflection and
discussion in small groups. In the spring, students engage in a four-hour
intensive study on a biblical topic of contemporary interest. A
comprehensive exam completes each of the three units of study in this
course. (Prerequisite: CBS 100)

CBS 300: Old Testament: Exile and Restoration (4.5 credits)

This year-long course of study builds upon and develops students’
understanding and use of the interpretive and exegetical methods of
encountering the biblical texts learned in CBS 100 and 200, continuing with
comprehensive studies of the Old Testament prophets, the People of God’s
experience of the Babylonian Exile, and the post-exilic restoration of the land
and faith of Israel. Beginning with an intensive six-hour study and a book
report on a scholarly monograph on methods of reading the Bible, students
go on to read major portions of the assigned biblical books as well as
secondary sources that provide historical, cultural, religious, and literary
insights into the primary texts—including careful study of the geography of
biblical lands from the eighth century to the first century BCE. Students
engage the texts by means of weekly written assignments and have
opportunities on a weekly basis to place their understanding of the biblical
texts in the context of their lived faith experiences by means of reflection and
discussion in small groups. In the spring, students engage in a four-hour
intensive study on a biblical topic of contemporary interest. A
comprehensive exam completes each of the three units of study in this
course. (Prerequisites: CBS 100; CBS 200)

CBS 400: Old and New Testaments Concluded: The Word in the
Hellenistic World (4.5 credits)
This year-long course of study builds upon and develops students’
understanding and use of the interpretive and exegetical methods of
encountering the biblical texts learned in CBS 100 and 200 by engaging in

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 Certificate Programs

comprehensive studies of the remaining Old and New Testament texts.

Beginning with an intensive six-hour study and a book report on a scholarly
monograph covering OT literature, students advance their ability to use the
tools of biblical criticism and apply them to Old and New Testament texts.
They read major portions of the assigned biblical books as well as significant
secondary sources that provide historical, cultural, religious and literary
insights into the primary texts—including careful study of the geography of
biblical lands from the sixth century BCE through the second century CE.
Students engage the texts by means of weekly written assignments and have
opportunities on a weekly basis to place their understanding of the biblical
texts in the context of their lived faith experiences by means of reflection and
discussion in small groups. In the spring, students engage in a four-hour
intensive study on a biblical topic of contemporary interest. A
comprehensive exam completes each of the three units of study in this
course. (Prerequisites: CBS 100; CBS 200)

Certificate in Religious Studies

The Certificate in Religious Studies is a part-time program which is
completed over the course of four years. This program consists of sixteen
required courses for a total of 12 credits. The Certificate in Religious Studies
program parallels the Diaconate Formation program and at the current time
is required of candidates for the permanent diaconate and is also available to
the candidates’ spouses should they choose to engage this academic and
spiritual process.

Certificate in Religious Studies—Course Descriptions

CRS 111 Introduction to the Diaconate (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the diaconate: exploring its history
from the early Church to today, the theology that underlies its ministry, and
the place of the deacon within the ecclesiology of the Church today.

CRS 112 History of the Christian Tradition (.75 credits)

The course will cover the peaks and valleys of Christian History beginning
with the Acts of the Apostles and continuing through Vatican II and into the
21st century. We will survey the major movements, doctrines, key persons
and institutions that arose within the Church and influenced its
development through the centuries.
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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

CRS 113 Faith and Reason (.75 credits)

Pope Saint John Paul II’s encyclical letter, Fides et Ratio, was written in 1998
and is acknowledged to be one of the most important of Church documents
examining the complementarity of faith and reason. Using that text as the
foundation of study and reflection, the course will explore the major themes
presented from a philosophical viewpoint. The course will present
philosophy as a resource for generating greater knowledge of truth and on
how the Church utilizes the science of philosophy as a way to know
fundamental truths about human life. The integral relationship between
philosophy and theology will be stressed, emphasizing that God and truth
are one and the same and that both reason and faith are needed to
understand this certainty.

CRS 114 Field Education in Social Justice (.75 credits)

In connection with Office of Social Justice, this practicum provides an
overview of the Church’s social teaching as found in Scripture and ecclesial
documents. It promotes the common good’s vision that unites Catholic
social thought principles and their implications for contemporary issues and
life in the Archdiocesan community. Visits to Archdiocesan social and
charity outreaching are scheduled during the semester. Finally, it explores
ways to integrate the vision and principles in the preparation of homilies.

CRS 211 Systematic Theology (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the foundations of Catholic systematic
theology and its sources within the Christian tradition. Students will
Develop a basic understanding of theology and the divine wellspring of
Sacred Scripture and Tradition, articulate an understanding of various
mysteries and beliefs of the Catholic faith (including the Trinity, the
Incarnation, salvation), and develop a familiarity with the Catechism of the
Catholic Church as a resource.

CRS 212 Sacraments (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the understanding of the sacraments
and sacramental theology within the Catholic tradition. Particular attention
will be paid to the scriptural foundation of the sacraments; the sacramental”
vision of worship from the first centuries of the Church the scholastic
language of form, matter, and causality; and a pastoral understanding and
celebration of the rites as currently in use by the Church.

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 Certificate Programs

CRS 213 Moral Theology (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to Catholic moral theology and its
sources with Scripture and Tradition.

CRS 214 Field Education in Healthcare (.75 credits)

This practicum aims to help the student acquire pastoral education and
skills to offer spiritual counseling with particular focus on the pastoral issues
of illness, conflict, doubt, and situational health crises. The course also
focuses on understanding prayer life that accompanies ministry to the sick
and dying and acquiring professional ease in visiting the sick, being with the
dying, and comforting grieving families.

CRS 311 Christian Spirituality (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the history and sources of spirituality
and prayer with the Christian tradition.

CRS 312 Old Testament (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the Old Testament and its place
within the Christian tradition, familiarizing the student with the content of
the Old Testament books, their history and interpretation.

CRS 313 New Testament (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the history and theology of the New
Testament.

CRS 314 Field Education in Catholic Schools (.75 credits)

This practicum introduces the student to how a parish passes on the “Good
News of Jesus Christ” in the Archdiocesan Catholic schools and other faith
formation settings. The student visits and assists in teaching parishioners of
all age groups who participate in various faith formation programs,
including sacramental preparation sessions, religious education, and school
programs. The student will have the opportunity to examine and reflect on
how rural, urban, and suburban parishes pass on the “Good News.”

CRS 411 Canon Law (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the foundations and theology of
canon law within the Roman Catholic tradition. It will also explore the role
canon law plays in the life of the Church.

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

CRS 412 Liturgical theology/ Homiletics I (.75 credits)

This course will introduce students to the foundations and theology of
liturgical preaching within the Christian tradition.

CRS 413 Homiletics II/ Practicums in Baptism, Marriage,

Funerals (.75 credits) (Prerequisite CRS 412)
This course will allow students to build on the solid foundation they
received in Homiletics I for preparing and delivering of a homily. This will
include several opportunities to practice preaching various types of homilies
(from different liturgical seasons, children’s liturgies, funerals, weddings,
baptisms, etc.) before the instructor and their peers. Students will also
become more familiar with the Lectionary.

CRS 414 Field Education in Catholic Parishes (.75 credits)

This practicum provides an opportunity to gain basic knowledge of and
practical experience in a diaconate candidate’s diocese. Time will be spent
visiting specific parishes within the Archdiocese with guided activities and
regular reflection designed to introduce the student to the particular context
in which he will exercise pastoral charity as a deacon. Attention will be
given to the Archdiocese’s unique character in five areas: culture, history,
spirituality, organizational structures, and pastoral issues.

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 Certificate Programs

BOARD MEMBERS

Most Reverend Leonard A. Blair, S.T.D.

Archbishop of Hartford
Chair of the Archdiocesan Corporation

Very Reverend Steven C. Boguslawski, Ph.D.

Vice-Chair of the Archdiocesan Corporation
Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia

The Reverend Michael Whyte

Secretary and Treasurer of the Archdiocesan Corporation

Mr. Matthew Byrne, C.P.A.

Director of Finance of the Archdiocese of Hartford

Mr. Michael J. Hanlon, C.P.A.

Chief Financial Officer, Diocese of Bridgeport

Dr. Benjamin T. Peters, Ph.D.

Professor, Saint Joseph University

Reverend Ryan M. Lerner

Chaplain, Yale University

ADMINISTRATION
The Reverend Michael Whyte
President-Rector of Saint Thomas Seminary

The Reverend Michael Casey

Academic Dean

Ms. Judith Kostelni

Chair of the Biblical Studies Certificate Program

Mr. Steven Rugens

Operations Manager, Archdiocesan Pastoral Center

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

FACULTY
Full Time
The Reverend Michael Whyte
B.A. (Government and Public Policy) Eastern Connecticut University, Windham, CT
B.Phil (Philosophy) Saint John’s Seminary, Brighton, MA
M.P.A. (Gerontology) University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
M.Div., Saint John’s Seminary, Brighton, MA

The Reverend Bishop Juan Miguel Betancourt, SEMV

B.A. (Science) University of Puerto Rico, San Juan
M.Div. Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, Ponce
S.S.L. Pontifical Biblical Institute, Rome

Ms. Judith Kostelni

B.B.A. (Accounting) University of San Diego, San Diego, CA
M.P.H. (Health Policy and Management) Columbia University, New York, NY
M.A. (Education) University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT
M.T.S. (Biblical Studies) Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA

Part Time
The Reverend Michael Casey
B.A. (Philosophy) Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia
S.T.B. Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome, Italy
S.T.L. (Moral Theology) Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Rome, Italy

Dr. Thomas Casey

S.T.L. (Theology) University of Baltimore
M.A. (New Testament) Union Theological Seminary, New York, NY
Ph.D. (New Testament) Catholic University of America, Washington, DC

Ms. Alexis Chacchia

B.A. (History) Western Connecticut State University, Danbury, CT
M.R.E. (Youth and Young Adult Ministry) Fordham University, Bronx, NY

Mr. Joseph Coray

B.A. Saint Francis College, Loretto, PA (Sociology)
M.A. Saint Bernard’s Institute at Albany. Rochester, NY (Theology)
Former Ph.D. Candidate, Loyola University, Chicago, IL (New Testament)
D.Min. Candidate, Graduate Theological Foundation, Mishawaka, IN

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 Certificate Programs

Ms. Barbara Jean Daly Horell

A.B. Honors (Religious Studies) Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA M.T.S.
(Scripture) Harvard Divinity School, Cambridge, MA Post-masters Certificate
(Spirituality) Boston College, Newton, MA

Ms. Amy Ekeh

B.A. (Theology) University of Dallas, Irving, TX
M.A. (Theology) Catholic University of America, Washington, DC

The Reverend John E. Gancarz

B.Phil. Saint John's Seminary, Boston, MA
S.T.B. Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome, Italy
S.T.L. (Dogmatic and Fundamental Theology) Pontifical University of Saint Thomas
Aquinas, Rome, Italy

Dr. Joan M. Kelly

B.A. Saint Joseph College, West Hartford
M.A. (Theology) Catholic University of America
M.A. (Psychology) Fairfield University
D.Min, Graduate Theological Foundation, Mishawaka, IN

Sr. Mariette Moan, ASCJ

B.A. in French from Southern CT State University
M.A. in Music Education from New York University
Diploma in Pastoral Liturgy from Pontifical University of St. Paul (Ottawa)
Diploma in Spirituality from Pontifical University of St. Thomas (Angelicum, Rome)
Ph.B. in Philosophy from Pontifical University of St. Anselmo (Anselmianum, Rome)
S.T.L. in Canon Law from Pontifical University of St. Paul (Ottawa)

The Reverend Jeremiah Murasso

B.A. (Philosophy) Saint Bonaventure University, Allegheny, NY
M.A. (Philosophy), M.A. (Dogmatic Theology) The Gregorian University, Rome
M.A. (Education, Applied Psychology) Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT
C.A.S. (School Administration and School Psychology) Fairfield University,
Fairfield, CT
Ph.D. (Pastoral Psychology) The Gregorian University, Rome
Ed.D. (Education)—The Graduate Theological Foundation, Mishawaka, IN
Psy.D. (Psychology)—The Graduate Theological Foundation, Mishawaka, IN

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 Course Catalogue 2020-2024

Dr. Benjamin Peters

B.A. (Philosophy) Saint Hyacinth College and Seminary, ‘
M.Div. University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN
Ph.D. University of Dayton, Dayton, OH

Ms. Melissa Pucci

B.A. (Literature and Religious Studies) Salve Regina University, Newport, RI
M.A.R. (Religious Studies) Yale University, Divinity School, New Haven, CT

The Reverend Michael Ruminski

B.Mus. (Organ Performance and Sacred Music) University of Hartford, Hartford, CT
M.Div. Catholic University of America, Washington, DC
S.T.B. Catholic University of America, Washington, DC
M.A.L.S. candidate (Liturgical Studies) University of Saint Mary of the Lake,
Mundelein, IL (in progress)

Deacon Robert Pallotti

B.A. University of Hartford
M.A. (Religious Studies) Saint Joseph College
D.Min. Graduate Theological Foundation, Mishawaka, IN

Ms. Linda Ward

B.A. (Education and Psychology) Molloy College, Rockville Centre, NY
M.S. (Special Education) Adelphi University, Garden City, NY
Professional Diploma (Educational Administration) Fordham University
M.A. (Theology) Seminary of the Immaculate Conception, Huntington, NY

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SAINT THOMAS SEMINARY
ARCHDIOCESE OF HARTFORD