The Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) and the Loyola School of Theology (LST) have renewed their partnership to train young lay Catholic leaders for Church service and community development across Asia.
The two institutions renewed their memorandum of agreement for the Joint Diploma in Integral Leadership and Community Development program, which combines theological education, leadership training and community engagement.
IFFAsia Director Florence Alexius headed the institute’s formation team during the renewal, while the Loyola School of Theology was represented by its president, Fr. Renato Repole, SJ.
The partnership seeks to prepare young people for leadership roles in local churches and civil society, with an emphasis on responding to the needs of their communities.
The non-degree diploma program, offered to individuals aged 23 to 38, provides an alternative pathway for those seeking formation in leadership, pastoral ministry and community development.
Its curriculum combines human development, Christian formation, social analysis and Catholic social teaching to prepare participants for leadership and community engagement.
The program is divided into two phases, beginning with Human Development and Leadership from January to May.
This phase covers psychosocial approaches to human development, faith formation, social analysis tools for community development and new ecclesiology in pastoral ministry.
The second phase, Social-Pastoral Leadership Development, runs from June to November and focuses on contemporary social issues, development theories, Catholic social teaching and pastoral ministry.
The training aims to strengthen participants’ leadership and decision-making skills while developing their capacity to critically examine social issues affecting their communities.
Graduates also undertake a two-year post-program internship, during which they implement a Development Action Plan with support from IFFAsia and their respective sending organizations.
Through the renewed partnership, IFFAsia and the Loyola School of Theology seek to strengthen lay participation in the Catholic Church’s mission and promote leadership rooted in faith, service and community engagement.
