The CBI or the Catholic Bible Institute is three-year bible-study program which entails a comprehensive study of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures focusing on methods of study, sharing and praying with Scripture.
The Catholic Bible Institute provides a learning experience involving head and heart. A variety of methods of instruction appropriate to adult learning will be presented by a team of facilitators. These include presentations by qualified Biblical instructors, small group discussions on themes, communal praying of scripture, monthly reading assignments including scripture passages and Biblical commentaries and written assignments, required for certification.
The program of studies for the Catholic Bible Institute is cyclical, starting with a year of studies focusing on the Old Testament / Hebrew Scriptures, then a year of studies on the New Testament / Christian Scriptures and a final year of both studies and practicum focusing on particular skills for working with adults and running a parish-based bible study program. Intake for the Catholic Bible Institute ordinarily takes place toward the end of 'odd' years (e.g. 2011, 2013, 2015, etc.) because of the cyclical nature of the studies.
Purpose
The purpose of the Catholic Bible Institute is to provide for the training and formation of leadership at the local parish. To further this purpose, the fourfold goal of the Catholic Bible Institute is to enable participants
- to grow in appreciation of God's revealed word
- to foster a Catholic understanding of the study of Sacred Scripture
- to integrate bible study with prayer and Christian living
- to provide formation formation and training in basic Catholic bible-study principles
Certification
Participants are invited to seek Certification in Biblical Studies through participation in the Catholic Bible Institute. The Office of Religious Education and the Center for Religion and Spirituality offer joint certification as part of their joint commitment to:
- provide leadership training for Bible Study
- provide knowledge of Scripture
- provide skills to lead parish-based scripture programs
Enrichment
While priority is given to those seeking Certification in Biblical Studies, we also encourage and welcome participants who seek personal enrichment in the area of scripture studies. Those who seek to foster their own spiritual growth and broaden their own understanding of Scripture will find their participation in the Catholic Bible Institute (Year 1 & 2) to be a richly rewarding experience.
Sponsorship
The Catholic Bible Institute is co-sponsored by the Office of Religious Education, Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and the Center for Religion and Spirituality, Loyola Marymount University.
PDFs available for download:
A flyer that provides general information about the Catholic Bible Institute.
Registration Form (legal size) for the cycle of studies commencing in 2012.