THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF
THEOLOGICAL AND TRIBUNAL STUDIES
AND
THE GRADUATE THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATION
CATALOG
Bachelor of Theology
Master of Theology (M.Th.)
Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)
Endorsed and Sponsored
by the
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
3424 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90010
www.la-archdiocese.org/org/tribunal/IITTS
Revised 5/31/12
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THE HISTORY OF THE INTERNATIONAL
INSTITUTE OF THEOLOGICAL AND
TRIBUNAL STUDIES
The Synod of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles proclaimed
that the call to ministry and leadership comes specifically from the grace
of Baptism. Thus, there are many forms of ministry that pertain to the
laity and are not restricted to clergy and religious. One of the pastoral
strategies called for was the establishment of a “school of ministry for
laity” or its equivalent in each pastoral region to train parishioners for
participation in a variety of parochial ministries.
In response to this Synod priority, to the needs of the Archdiocese and to
the growing shortage of canonists and qualified Tribunal staff in the
U.S., Canada and elsewhere, in December 15, 2005, the Graduate
Theological Foundation of Indiana formally established the International
Institute of Tribunal Studies in Los Angeles, with the endorsement of
His Eminence Cardinal Roger Mahony, Archbishop of Los Angeles. At
that time, the Cardinal stated that the Archdiocese of Los Angeles has
much to offer the Institute, including facilities, expertise and faculty. In
2007, the Graduate Theological Foundation granted to the International
Institute of Tribunal Studies the new status of P.R.I.M.E. (Partnering
Resources in Ministry Education), with the hope that many of the
excellent educational programs of the Archdiocese could be used to
allow Christ’s Faithful to obtain degrees in different areas of studies.
In November 2008, Cardinal Roger Mahony invited the administration
of the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas to join in a
collaborative venture which would allow students the experience of
studying canon law during the summer months in the Archdiocese of
Los Angeles as part of the process of obtaining the Licentiate in canon
law through the Angelicum. In December 2008 the Cardinal received
letters from Fr. Joseph Agius, O.P., Rector of the University, and Fr.
Bruno Esposito, O.P., Dean of the Faculty of Canon Law, stating that the
Faculty Council unanimously accepted the proposal.
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Because of the widening of the I.I.T.S. mission from solely preparing
those in tribunal ministry to the formation of all of those in ministry, in
2009, with the approval of Cardinal Roger Mahony and the Graduate
Theological Foundation, the I.I.T.S. became the International Institute of
Theological and Tribunal Studies (I.I.T.T.S.).
THE GRADUATE THEOLOGICAL
FOUNDATION
● What is the Graduate Theological Foundation?
The Graduate Theological Foundation (GTF) is a
learned society of professionals in ministry committed to continuing
professional education. The GTF is committed to the wide range of both
traditional and emerging forms of ministry for the churches in their quest
for deeper unity among themselves and in developing relationships with
both other religious traditions and secular society. It serves as a
gathering of dedicated persons in a community of colleagues seeking to
learn together through the sharing of professional and vocational
experience, insight, and theological reflection.
The state of Indiana granted the Foundation its corporate charter as
a graduate institution to engage in advanced professional education for
those in ministry with the correlated concerns of research and
publication. In keeping with its commitment to address the educational
needs of ministry professionals in the twenty-first century, the GTF
conducts graduate theological programs and awards degrees to
professionals already fully credentialed for ministry. The Foundation’s
inter-institutional arrangements contribute significantly to its
maintaining high professional standards because the Foundation
maintains connections with prominent institutions of higher learning in
the United States and abroad where graduate degree candidates may
complete their programs.
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The chief work of the GTF is carried out through its several degree
programs and series of publications. All educational degree programs
are designed for fully credentialed professionals in ministry whose
common concern is the development of leadership for congregations and
communities. Because its teaching is founded on a realistic
understanding of anthropology, GTF learning is at once self-improving
and motivational. Thus, it truly engages the adult learner.
● What is the history of the Graduate Theological Foundation?
The inception of the Graduate Theological Foundation is
synonymous with the convening of the Second Vatican Council. In
formulating the Council’s purpose, Pope John XXIII, in his opening
address of October 11, 1962, said that the Council’s goal was to
eradicate the seeds of discord and promote the peace and unity of all
humankind. In recognition of the fact that the whole human community
comes from the creative hand of the one God, Vatican II drew attention
to the fact that other Christian communities are churches within the
Body of Christ.
The Decree on Ecumenism, in particular, describes the ecumenical
movement as one of seeking the restoration of Christian unity in that it
acknowledges the ecclesial reality of other Christian communities,
which share the same Sacred Scriptures, the same life of grace, the same
gifts of the Holy Spirit, the same faith, hope and charity, the same
Baptism, and many other common elements which constitute the
Church. True ecumenism, then, requires theological collaboration,
dialogue, joint study, and cooperation in social action. It is precisely the
first three of those elements that called the Graduate Theological
Foundation into being.
The initial organization for the Foundation’s work was called the
Conference on Religious Development and was spearheaded by Father
Robley E. Whitson, who at the time was the chair of the theology
department at Fordham University. The Conference was formed to
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provide theological and religious education programs within the context
of the newly emerging ecumenical relationships among the various
Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant communions. During those initial
years the Foundation addressed itself to the development of an
understanding of ministry that was both to nurture and to enrich the
coming ecumenical era.
● What makes the Graduate Theological Foundation special?
The Foundation, with its configuration of educational programs
rather than endowments and property, is dedicated to the further
development of research and publication projects reflective of its
mission. The GTF has developed three levels of academic relationships
in its graduate studies programs. The highest level of collaboration and
scholastic involvement is that of the Oxford University Department for
Continuing Education and the Centro Pro Unione in Rome. The second
level of cooperation is with the select educational sites that enter into a
P.R.I.M.E. (Partnering Resources in Ministry Education) relationship
with the Foundation. The third designation is given to carefully selected
institutions in recognition of the high quality of educational
programming provided, thereby designating them as recognized and
Endorsed institutions.
● What unique advantage does the Graduate Theological
Foundation offer a contemporary professional in ministry?
Given both the physical mobility of professionals today and their
immediate access via telecommunications to a virtual mega-university of
course offerings, workshops, conferences and study programs, the
Foundation has created and maintained an educational environment
within which the truly creative and self-motivated professional can
develop a personalized educational program best suited for individually
perceived needs, thereby avoiding the restrictiveness of an on-site, one-
curriculum-based residency regimen which presumes that one size fits
all. The GTF believes that this movement toward self-directed
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professional growth and away from a uniform procedure is what is being
called for by individuals in ministry today.
● Accreditation
Owing to a ruling by the State of Indiana and in compliance with
the Foundation's State Charter, the Foundation is at liberty to offer its
degree programs to professionals in the cognate fields of ministry such
as pastoral care and counseling, mediation, church administration,
spiritual direction, as well as in other areas of study. The Foundation
does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Association of Theological
Schools or the North Central Association of Colleges and Universities;
the Foundation neither holds nor will it seek these accreditations.
G.T.F. TUITION, FEES AND PAYMENT POLICY
Students who wish to obtain a degree from the Foundation must pay the
appropriate fees to GTF in addition to the course fees of the
International Institute of Theological and Tribunal Studies (IITTS).
Because the IITTS is a P.R.I.M.E. site, the students of IITTS do not have
to register with the Graduate Theological Foundation until after
completion of the courses with the International Institute of Theological
and Tribunal Studies. However, the disadvantage of waiting to register
with GTF until after the completion of courses with IITTS is that the
Foundation’s tuition could increase. The tuition for GTF will be based
on the year the student registers with the Foundation.
Degree candidates are bound by the regulations of the GTF bulletin of
the year in which they commence their studies with the Foundation.
Tuition fees will not change during a student's course of studies.
For information regarding the Graduate Theological Foundation
and its fees, please go to: www.gtfeducation.org
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I.I.T.T.S. TUITION, FEES AND PAYMENT POLICY
Courses: $500.00 per course (This is separate from fees paid to GTF)
Payment: Write checks to “Archdiocese of Los Angeles, IITTS”
Registration: Mail the application with $15.00 fee, recommendation
letters and transcripts to:
Msgr. Charles Chaffman
International Institute of Theological and Tribunal Studies
Marriage Tribunal – 4th Floor
3424 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90010-2241
Library Resources: Students will have access to the Library at
St. John’s Seminary, as well as daily access to the Metropolitan Tribunal
Library located at the Archdiocesan Catholic Center.
The International Institute of Theological and Tribunal Studies
Director: Rev. Msgr. Charles J. Chaffman, S.T.L., J.C.D.
Phone: 213-637-7209
Fax: 213-637-6245
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.la-archdiocese.org/org/tribunal/IITTS
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Summer Semester 2012 Course Offerings
Course: Basic Latin: Part One
Course Description: This is an introductory course of Ecclesiastical
Latin for those with little or no previous exposure to Latin or for those
who have taken Latin and want or need to refresh their skills.
Course Schedule: Daily lessons will consist of a Power Point
presentation, lecture, short exercises, and basic translations.
Dates: June 11, 2012 – June 28, 2012
(Three week course: Monday through Thursday)
Professor: Dr. Alan Vincelette
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
Texts: Collins, John. A Primer of Ecclesiastical Latin
Washington: Catholic University of America Press, 1985)
Stelten, Leo, Dictionary of Ecclesiastical Latin
(Peabody: Hendrickson, 1995)
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Course: Basic Latin: Part Two
Course Description: This is a course of Ecclesiastical Latin for those
with previous exposure to Latin or for those who have taken Latin and
want or need to refresh their skills.
Course Schedule: Daily lessons will consist of a Power Point
presentation, lecture, short exercises, and basic translation. On Monday,
Wednesday, and Friday, students will also translate additional actual
Latin texts. There will be weekly assignments from Collins and
handouts for weeks 3 through 15. The final project will be a translation
of a Latin text: Due November 1, 2012.
Dates: June 18, 2012 – June 29, 2012
(Two week course: Monday through Friday)
Professor: Dr. Danilo Ceccarelli Morolli
Time: 11:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Days Inn, Glendale, CA
Texts: Collins, John. A Primer of Ecclesiastical Latin
Washington: Catholic University of America Press, 1985)
Stelten, Leo, Dictionary of Ecclesiastical Latin
(Peabody: Hendrickson, 1995)
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Course: Thomistic Ethics
Course Description: An introduction to ethics, natural law, and the
virtues as understood by St. Thomas Aquinas
Dates: June 11, 2012 – June 28, 2012
(Three week course: Monday through Thursday)
Professor: Dr. Christopher Kaczor
Time: 9:45 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Location: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
Course: An Introduction to the Life and Ministry of
Henri Nouwen
Course Description: Henri Nouwen’s personal spirituality was built
upon his confidence in a loving God. Because he himself was a wounded
healer he understood that one’s personal wounds can be a source of
positive healing for others. Not only can our wounded condition help
enable us to become more compassionate, but it can also humble us.
Nouwen is well able to speak to our circumstances and does so in his
essays which often deal with anxiety, loneliness, and insecurity
Dates: June 11, 2012 - June 28, 2012 (Mondays and Thursdays)
Professor: Msgr. Charles J. Chaffman, S.T.L., J.C.D.
Time: 3:30 p.m. –6:00 p.m.
Location: Days Inn, Glendale, CA
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Course: The Teaching Function of the Church
Course Description: This course provides students with the opportunity
to understand the general principles that guide the Church in its call to
“go out to all the nations” and teach the Faith. Based on sound theology
and praxis, the course will help students in interpreting canons 747-833
which, in legal terms, articulate the call of all the faithful to teach and
sanctify.
Dates: July 9, 2012 - July 20, 2012
(Two week course: Monday through Friday)
Professor: Sr. Sharon Holland, I.H.M.
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Location: St. John’s Seminary, Camarillo, CA.
Course: The Theology of Canon Law
Course Description: This course is a survey of select canonists, Church
leaders, philosophers and theologians whose views on the role of law
and pastoral ministry have shaped the canonical system of law, theology,
spirituality and pastoral ministry.
Dates: July 9, 2012- July 20, 2012
(Two week course: Monday through Friday)
Professor: Msgr. Charles J. Chaffman, S.T.L., J.C.D., Judicial Vicar
of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: St. John’s Seminary, Camarillo, CA.
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Course: Introduction to St. Thomas
Course Description: This course introduces the students to St. Thomas
Aquinas’ life and work, conditions of writing.
Dates: July 9, 2012 - July 27, 2012
(Three week course: Monday through Friday)
Professor: Rev. Dominic Holtz, O.P.
Time: 9:15 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Location: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
Course: Secular and Catholic Philosophies: On Happiness,
Love, Marriage, and Disputed Questions in Sexual Ethics Course Description: What is happiness, friendship and erotic love?
How do these relate to cohabitation and marriage?
Dates: July 9, 2012 - July 20, 2012
(Two week course: Monday through Friday)
Professor: Dr. Christopher Kaczor
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Location: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
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Course: Introduction to Greek
Course Description: An introduction to Biblical Greek, teaching only
what is necessary to use the New Testament in Ministry. After
mastering the basics, students will gain experience in reading Greek with
the use of a Greek English Linear New Testament.
Dates: July 9, 2012 - July 21, 2012
(Two week course: Monday through Saturday)
Professor: Rev. John O’Grady, S.T.D, S.S.D.
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Saturday
Location: Christ the King Church, Los Angeles
Texts: Mounce, William D.: Basics of Biblical Greek, Grammar
Mounce, William D.: Basics of Biblical Greek, Workbook
Christian book.com 1-800-247-4784
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Course: History of the Institutes of Canon Law
Course Description: This course provides the student with an historical
perspective of the canonical dimensions of the Church and its structures.
The course will examine the development of its canonical structures
beginning with the primitive Church to the Council of Trent. Students
will come to a clearer understanding of the development of canon law
regarding: the Roman Pontif, Patriarchs, bishops, ecumenical and local
councils, Roman Curia, parishes and the role of the parish priests.
Dates: July 23, 2012 – August 3, 2012
(Two week course: Monday through Friday)
Professors: Rev. Krikor Gregory Chahinian, J.C.D. and
Msgr. Charles J. Chaffman, S.T.L., J.C.D.
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: St. John’s Seminary, Camarillo, CA.
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Course: People of God: Clerics
Course Description: Topics to be covered in the course include: the
right of the Church to form those who are commissioned for the sacred
ministries; the duty of the Christian community to foster vocations: the
formation of Permanent Deacons requisites of the chief seminary
personnel: the process of admission to the seminary; priestly formation
including growth in spirituality, academic development, theological and
philosophical training, and pastoral expectations.
Dates: August 13, 2012 - August 24, 2012
(Two week course: Monday through Friday)
Professor: Rev. Luis Navarro
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Location: St. John’s Seminary, Camarillo, CA.
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DEGREE PROGRAMS
Bachelor of Theology
Cloverdale College offers the degree-completion Bachelor of Religious
Education (B.R.E.) and the degree-completion Bachelor of Theology
(B.Th.) especially for experienced CCD teachers, RCIA teachers,
catechists, lay ministers, Sunday school instructors, and directors of
religious education programs.
Admission Requirements for the Bachelor of Theology for the
International Institute of Tribunal Studies:
1. High school diploma or G.E.D. Foreign students must hold the
equivalent.
2. Associate of Arts degree or the equivalent. Previous work and life
experience will be taken into consideration. For those who wish to
enter into the program based on previous life experience, work,
education (formal, non-formal or non-accredited) are required to
submit a five page paper explaining their previous experiences that
have prepared them for further studies.
3. Completion of the Application Procedure. This procedure includes
(a) a faith-based social service statement of at least one page which
indicates why the degree would be important in the exercise of the
applicant's personal ministry and (b) one letter of recommendation
from the applicant's faith community leader.
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Graduation Requirements: Students must complete ten courses: eight
required courses, two electives and a Senior Paper.
101 Introduction to the Old Testament
102 Introduction to the New Testament
103 Early and Medieval Church History
104 Survey of Philosophy
105 God and Creation
106 Jesus Christ: God, Man, and Savior
107 Ecclesiology
108 Theology of the Sacraments
Five Elective Courses:
109 Introduction to Liturgy
110 Survey of Catholic Spirituality
111 Catholic Fundamental Moral Theology
112 Introduction to Canon Law
113 Basic Latin
Senior Paper
The senior paper is the final academic requirement of all undergraduate
students. This paper should consist of the student’s personal reflections
on his/her ministry or social service work to date. Students should
address the following topics in their senior paper:
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the nature and extent of their experience and current social
service/ministry work
their plans for furthering their work
how their studies and resulting degree from Cloverdale College
will benefit them in their service to their community
The format of the senior paper is as follows:
3,500-5,000 words (10-15 pages)
one-inch margins
double-spaced
typed in Times New Roman 12 point font
Master of Theology (M.Th.)
Description: The Master of Theology (M.Th.) is an academic master’s
degree. With a specialized focus upon a specific theological agenda, the
M.Th. is ideally suited to the ministry professional who desires to update
previous ministry training with particular attention to theological
refinement.
Admission Requirements:
1. Baccalaureate degree in theology or equivalent validated by a
transcript.
2. Five years of accumulated experience in a related field of ministry
(lay, religious, ordained).
3. Completion of the Application Process.
Graduation Requirements:
1. Completion of eight three-unit courses.
2. Selection of a Thesis Consultant.
3. Completion of a Master’s Thesis of 35,000 to 40,000 words and
submission of one copy including the Thesis Consultant’s
evaluation forms by February 1 prior to graduation.
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Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)
Description: The degree of Doctor of Ministry is a nationally accepted
terminal professional degree for ministry. The uniqueness of the D.Min.
Program offered by the Graduate Theological Foundation is found in its
exclusive orientation toward ministry as a pastoral ecumenical
commitment, through specialized study pursued at the numerous
residency sites selected by degree candidates. The Foundation is offering
an educational experience as a degree program designed specifically to
address the needs of ministry in an environment which is supportive and
nurturing, but appropriately independent of any one ecclesial body.
Admission Requirements
1. Baccalaureate degree or equivalent validated by a transcript.
2. Master’s degree in a cognate field of education such as theology,
ministry, pastoral care or administration validated by a transcript.
3. Five years of accumulated experience in a cognate field of
ministry.
4. Completion of the Application Procedure.
Graduation Requirements:
1. Completion of eight, three-unit courses.
2. Selection of a Thesis Consultant.
3. The Doctoral Project is a demonstration of praxis. Its structure,
focus and content, therefore, allows for a wide range of differing
forms appropriate to the actual area of the practice of ministry
addressed. The length of the project is to be 35,000-40,000 words
(140-160 pages), double-spaced, footnoted, and with significant
bibliographical references of at least 35 sources. It is also a
recommendation for the bibliography to include an annotated
listing of the 10-12 sources that were key to the development of the
project.
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Doctor of Ministry Areas of Concentration
Adult Spiritual Formation
Ecumenism
Health Care
Hispanic Ministry
Liturgy
Management
Pastoral Care
Pastoral Communication
Pastoral Counseling
Preaching
Sacred Scripture
Spiritual Direction
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THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF THEOLOGICAL AND
TRIBUNAL STUDIES (IITTS)
ACADEMIC JOURNAL OPTION (Note: Certain I.I.T.T.S. courses do not require the Academic Journal as an exit
project; instead a paper or an exam will be required.)
In what does a course for credit consist? What are the
requirements and academic expectations for each course?
IITTS requires that each student spend 120 hours in a combination of the
following: (1) class hours which take place during the residency period
(2) private and group study (3) research (4) speaking with the mentor-
tutor (5) attending related workshops or classes, and (6) completing the
finished Academic Journal in a timely manner.
The purpose of the Academic Journal
The Academic Journal serves as record of the scholastic activity of the
student. Its purpose is to aid the student in developing ideas and also to
show a progression in thought during the course. It is seen as an
important extension of classroom education and is viewed as vital to the
totality of the learning experience. The journal demonstrates both one’s
critical thinking skills as well as in-depth reflection.
When should the student begin the Academic Journal?
The Academic Journal is to begin as soon as the student has been
accepted into the course, even before the residency period and lectures
have begun.
Required Elements
Each journal entry should indicate briefly how the topic relates to the
class as well as its practical implications. At least 75% of the journal
should consist of reflections on the required reading of the course. The
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other 25% is to consist of reflections on other interconnected readings,
real life experiences, and other related seminars or classes.
Techniques of Journaling
The following techniques could be used in journal writing:
● A summary of class notes from the residency period along with
personal reflections.
● Selected quotes from the required readings along with personal
reflections.
● An outline of a chapter or article.
● Selected quotes from the journals of other students, mentor-tutors or
professors along with personal reflections.
● The result of internet searches with reflections.
● A theological reflection on a real life experience that is related to the
course.
● A list of new vocabulary terms taken from the readings, along with
their meaning.
Protocols
● Make a notation of the date and time of the writing. If you wish, you
may also include the place.
● The journal could be shared with fellow students in order to create a
forum for new ideas.
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● When quoting a fellow student who is willing to share his or her
journal avoid using the name and simply state: “A colleague presented
the following concept…”
● Always include a brief citation at the end of the quotation.
● Spelling and grammar are important. Proofread and use spell check.
Advanced Technique (Optional Extra Credit Work)
The Academic Journal could be divided into two sections: the daily
journal as explained above and a theme section.
The diary is simply a daily record of a person’s studies based on the
techniques cited above.
The theme section consists in the copying and pasting of the diary
entrees under theme headings. Each time a quote or thought is written in
the diary, the student is to copy and paste the new thought under the
most appropriate heading. The easiest way to understand this process is
to think of each quote or thought as “a 3 by 5 index card.” Just as you
did in the “old days” you would organize the index cards by themes or
topics.
The themes will likely change and develop in the dynamic process of
journaling. At times the student will want to delete, modify or merge
thoughts. The process is organic and the student will constantly be
moving and re-organizing these sections. Sometimes there will be a need
to divide a particular section into subheadings.
Final Grade
The final course grade is determined by (1) class participation during the
residency period (2) the interactive process of journal writing during the
non-residency period (3) the finished, corrected, journal and (4) the final
oral exam.
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International Institute of Theological and Tribunal Studies
ACADEMIC LOG A RECORD OF ACTIVITIES
In order to master the content of a three-unit course, each student must
complete 120 hours of class time and private study. This log is provided
for the student to keep track of the time spent in class and in private
study. Upon completing the 120 hours and the required exit project, the
student is to contact the professor in order to evaluate his/her progress.
Examples of activities include: class time, academic journal, course
readings, research (library and on-line), project writing, group study,
meetings with the professor (face-to-face, phone, email), related
workshop, etc.
Date Activity Time Spent
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Date Activity Time Spent
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Date Activity Time Spent
Total number of hours: ______________
_______________________________ _________________________________
Signature of Student Signature of Professor / Advisor
_______________________________ __________________________________
Date Date
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IITTS PARTNERSHIP FOR ADVANCED EDUCATION
In a spirit of partnership the IITTS offers academic recognition to
participants of the numerous quality educational experiences already
established by Archdiocesan departments, parishes, retreat houses,
spiritual movements, houses of religious formation and other similar
groups.
Some important IITTS principles:
IITTS wants to acknowledge the excellence of the educational
experiences already being provided under the auspices of the
Archdiocese of Los Angeles and other dioceses.
IITTS respects the autonomy of each educational provider.
IITTS does not want to change the main goals or schedule of any
existing program.
IITTS does not want to impose any additional burden on any
educational provider.
IITTS would be responsible for establishing, collecting, and
evaluating any work needed to meet IITTS course requirements
beyond those required by the existing programs.
There are two avenues of utilizing these existing programs:
1. Some programs could provide the basis for a full course
recognized by the IITTS for those working toward a degree
program with IITTS.
2. Other programs could be utilized by IITTS students as a part of
their required hours for a related course. These are advertised to
our students who independently make arrangements with the
provider to attend a specific event.
IITTS invites all Archdiocesan departments, parishes, retreat houses,
spiritual movements, houses of religious formation and other similar
groups to submit an application [see form found at the end of this
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catalog] in order for these already existing programs and events to be
recognized as a full course or to advertise such programs and events to
IITTS students.
Video Conferencing Opportunities
Throughout the Archdiocese of Los Angeles there are a number of video
conferencing sites. Students could choose to take courses at one of these
locations.
AGAPE COMMUNITY
What is meant by the term “Agape Community”?
An agape community is basically a group of like-minded persons who
walk the avenues of academia together and support each other along the
way. An adult learner may find it helpful to become a member of such a
group because such a an agape community gathers together to learn in a
new, less formal way from that offered in the traditional classroom
experience. The main goal of an IITTS agape group is to become a
community of learners who find a common motivation in their love of
learning. The group members come to realize that shared learning
becomes much more enjoyable than solitary study, particularly because
it is acquired in a collaborative way.
Why is the Small Group of Learners Referred to as an Agape
Community?
“One word frees us from all the weight and pain of life -- and that word
is love.” So Sophocles affirmed. Other ancient Greeks encouraged the
use of two special words for love: eros and agape. When a person
focuses on him/ her self and seeks his/her own well-being, his/her love is
called eros. When, however, a person focuses on the needs of others and
devotes themselves to the fulfillment of others, his/her love is agape.
Jesus is the one person who embodies agape love. He came into the
world not for his own fulfillment but for the fulfillment of others. IITTS
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agape groups strive to reflect the agape love of Christ and in so doing
carry out one of the main objectives of the International Institute of
Theological and Tribunal Studies.
Groups that Could Become Agape Communities
Groups such as the following may find it advantageous to join together
in mutual support in an agape community:
Priests
Members of the same religious communities
Members of different religious communities
Deacons and their spouses
Prayer groups
Regional groups
Deanery members
Parish
Catholic organizations
Members of a spiritual movement
Persons interested in video conferencing
Advantages an Agape Community Can Offer the Adult Learner
Flexibility -- students may nominate qualified professors who
meet the needs of adult learners
Creativity -- students are encouraged to suggest individual
courses founded on their needs. Based on the needs of the
members of a group, students may decide on the time and place
of the class
Academic individualism -- group study reinforces personal
study in the IITTS program; time spent in academic group study
counts toward the 120 hour course requirement.
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Joint Understanding between the Student and The
International Institute of Theological and Tribunal Studies
(known as IITTS)
Please initial each of the following points to indicate that you
understand the unique nature of our program:
_____ I understand that the International Institute of Theological and
Tribunal Studies is a non-regionally accredited institution.
_____ I understand that the International Institute of Theological and
Tribunal Studies is a P.R.I.M.E for the Graduate Theological
Foundation.
_____I understand the following regarding the status of a P.R.I.M.E for
the Graduate Theological Foundation:
Partnering Resources in Ministry Education (P.R.I.M.E.)
This special type of affiliation allows students to earn their degree
from the Foundation by completing all required coursework
through a P.R.I.M.E. affiliate. Institutions designated as
P.R.I.M.E. provide specializations in specific graduate degree
programs such as the Doctor of Ministry, Doctor of Psychology
and others. At P.R.I.M.E. institutions, Foundation students may
complete all of their Units of Study and fulfill all residency
requirements for their graduate degree programs. The following
institutions and organizations have been invited to participate in
the Foundation’s P.R.I.M.E. program. They have been selected
on the strength of their educational programs and quality of
training faculty. To this distinguished roster of P.R.I.M.E.
institutions, other institutions and programs are periodically
added based on the Foundation’s ongoing assessment of
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educational training opportunities relevant to our students. The
attractiveness of the P.R.I.M.E. affiliation is two-fold, viz.,
students may do all of their residency and degree requirements at
any one of the P.R.I.M.E. affiliated institutions. Those
institutions have the advantage, by virtue of their affiliation with
the Foundation, of offering their training for the Foundation’s
degree programs in their own facilities.
_____I understand that because the International Institute of Theological
and Tribunal Studies is a P.R.I.M.E., the students of IITTS do not have
to register with the Graduate Theological Foundation until after
completion of the courses with the International Institute of Theological
and Tribunal Studies. However, the disadvantage of waiting to register
with the Foundation after the completion of courses with IITTS is that
the student will not have the advantage of locking in the price of the
tuition. The tuition for GTF will be based on the year the student
registers with the Foundation. Tuition fees for both the IITTS and the
GTF are subject to change.
_____I understand that the number of courses required by IITTS may
vary from the requirements of GTF The Graduate Theological
Foundation with its unique inter-faith orientation operates with the
understanding that each P.R.I.M.E. needs the freedom to establish
academic criteria based on the needs of the faith community in which
the P.R.I.M.E. serves. The required number of courses established by the
IITTS for each degree fulfills the requirements of the Graduate
Theological Foundation and also reflects the needs of those serving the
Catholic community.
_____I understand that all fees for courses paid to IITTS are separate
from the fees paid to the Graduate Theological Foundation for
graduation and degree.
_____I have gone to the Foundation’s website to determine the cost of
my degree.
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_____If I register at this time the cost for my degree from GTF will be
the following: ____________.
_____I understand that degree candidates are bound by the regulations
of the Foundation bulletin of the year in which they commence their
studies with the GTF. Tuition fees will not change during a student's
course of studies provided the student completes the program within the
prescribed time allotted for the degree.
_____I understand that as a student I am responsible for contacting,
registering, and following the Graduate Theological Foundation’s
policies for graduation.
____I understand that the degrees awarded by the Foundation are not
regionally accredited.
____I understand that there are certain limitations in the academic and
professional world with regard to the non-regionally accredited degrees
from the Foundation.
____I understand the Graduate Theological Foundation philosophy
regarding accreditation as expressed in the following statement: “Owing
to a ruling by the State of Indiana and in compliance with the
Foundation's State Charter, the Foundation is at liberty to offer its degree
programs to professionals in the cognate fields of ministry such as
pastoral care and counseling, mediation, church administration, and
spiritual direction, as well as in other areas of study. The Foundation
does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Association of Theological
Schools or the North Central Association of Colleges and Universities;
the Foundation neither holds nor will it seek these accreditations.”
__________________________________ ____________________
Student’s full signature Date
Please return with your IITTS Application and Registration Form
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INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF THEOLOGICAL
AND TRIBUNAL STUDIES
Application Form
This application is required only for those who wish to enroll with
the IITTS. A separate application form and fee are required to
apply for a degree with the Graduate Theological Foundation.
Print Name: ________________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________________
City/State/Zip: ______________________________________________
Email:_____________________________________________________
Phone: (day)_____________________ (evening)___________________
□ Ordained □ Laity □ Religious Order
DEGREE PROGRAM for which you are applying:
□ Bachelor of Theology
□ Bachelor of Theology (Roman Catholic Deacons’ Track)
□ Master of Theology (M.Th.)
□ Master of Tribunal Studies (M.Tr.S.)
□ Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)
□ Doctor of Tribunal Studies (D.Tr.S.)
□ Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
High School Diploma/G.E.D.__________________________________
Associate’s degree __________________________________________
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Institution Field Degree Year
(e.g., M.A., M.Div.)
__________________________________ ___________ _________
__________________________________ ___________ _________
__________________________________ ___________ _________
PRESENT POSITION/TITLE:
__________________________________________________________
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS which are relevant to your
application.
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
MINISTRY EXPERIENCE: (List name and address of parish,
congregation, religious community, etc., where you have been engaged
in ministry and the length of time you performed your ministry.)
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
RECOMMENDATION LETTER: Name, address, contact
information of a clerical or lay leader in your parish whom you have
asked to provide a letter of recommendation.
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
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MINISTRY STATEMENT: Using this form or attaching a separate
sheet, explain why this degree will be of importance to you in the
exercise of your personal ministry. This is a major component of the
evaluation process. Ministry is defined by the Graduate Theological
Foundation as the act of being engaged in any social service dedicated
to the improvement and nurture of society and the world community.
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Mail To: Msgr. Charles Chaffman
International Institute of Theological and Tribunal Studies
c/o Marriage Tribunal, Fourth Floor
3424 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90010-2241
I plan to register for the following course/s:
Course Date Course Title
1.
2.
3.
Please make checks payable to: Archdiocese of Los Angeles–IITTS
Application with fee of $15.00 _____
Ministry Statement _____
Recommendation Letter _____
Transcripts _____
Joint Understanding _____
