Fall-Winter 2013-2014

Institute launches first online Divine Mercy course In October, the John Paul II Institute of Divine Mercy launched its first online course, giving participants the option of either simply purchasing the presen- tations or taking the course for certification and possibly academic credit. Titled Divine Mercy Essentials , the course covers every major theological, pastoral, and liturgical aspect of the Divine Mercy message and devotion. An apostolate of the Marian Fathers, the Institute has provided instruction in Divine Mercy theology and spirituality for clergy, religious, and lay leaders in the Divine Mercy movement since its founding in 1995. “Over the years, many people have expressed a desire for more in-depth, guided study of the message and devotion to the Divine Mercy and the life and witness of St. Faustina,” said Robert Stackpole, STD, director of the Institute. “The first ever online course on Divine Mercy is our response to that call, designed to enable both individuals and parish groups to become more effective disciples of Christ’s merciful love.” Widely recognized as an expert on Divine Mercy, Dr. Stackpole has spoken at numerous conferences and taught university courses on the subject. He also writes the column “Divine Mercy Q & A” at thedivinemercy.org and has authored several books on Divine Mercy. “I took numerous courses with Dr. Stackpole when I was completing my undergraduate degree at Trinity Western University and Redeemer Pacific College” in Langley, British Columbia, said Angela McCormick, coordina- tor of Youth and Young Adult Ministry at St. Theresa’s Parish in Edmonton, Alberta. “His ‘Theology of the Love of God’ course, which is about the Divine Mercy of God, was life- changing for me.” Some of the classes for the online course focus on the struggles that people face in liv- ing the mercy message. Most of the classes are taught by Dr. Stackpole. There are also presentations by popular author and speaker Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC, on the Blessed Virgin Mary and Divine Mercy, and Fr. SeraphimMichalenko, MIC, world-renowned expert on Divine Mercy and the life of St. Faustina, on the importance of the mercy message for our time. You can purchase the presentations for viewing online or as a DVD set. Study-and- discussion questions and a group leader’s guide are available online to assist parishes, Eucharistic Apostles of The Divine Mercy Cenacles, and other groups in using Divine Mercy Essentials . If you wish to receive a Certificate of Completion from the Institute, you must regis- ter, pay a small course fee, take two exams, and write a final essay. The Institute is seeking to collaborate with several faith-based universities so that participants may earn academic credit. Those taking the course for a certificate or pos- sibly university credit will be able to e-mail Dr. Stackpole with questions or comments and receive feedback. For more information, to purchase the course, or to register for certification, go to onlinecourse.marian.org. MH Robert Stackpole, STD, director of the Institute, says the online course is “designed to enable both individuals and parish groups to become more effective disciples of Christ’s merciful love.” In the News: Marians’ Divine Mercy Apostolates f eLix C arroLL Learn Divine Mercy from the experts Robert Stackpole, STD, director of the John Paul II Institute, is the lead instructor for this in-depth course on Divine Mercy theology and spirituality. Learn Divine Mercy Essentials from Dr. Stackpole and his team of experts. Groups and individuals can view the sessions either on DVDs or online. DIVINE MERCY ESSENTIALS 30-session DVD set $99.95 (B20-DMEDVD) 30-session Online Program $49.95 Visit onlinecourse.marian.org fo r additional information. New! Have a Divine Mercy Apostolate come to your parish: Call 1-800-895-3236 or visi t thedivinemercy.org/ministries. Back to index