SUMMER SESSION
Liturgical Institute Summer Program
Earn a Master's Degree in Liturgy in five summer sessions or simply come for a course!
At The Liturgical Institute, you’ll find a positive, joyful and faithful approach to praying and studying the Church’s liturgy. Maybe it’s the friendly nature of our students, faculty, and staff, the pastoral setting of the campus and its beautiful architecture, or the ease with which the Tradition and magisterial teaching of the Church are integrated into a curriculum firmly rooted in the ideals of the Second Vatican Council. Perhaps it’s the sung Mass and Liturgy of the Hours, the field trips, the meals and impromptu discussions, and high quality of instructors and visiting speakers. There’s a remarkable experience to be found at The Liturgical Institute, one which will help refresh your soul and renew the Church.
Summer 2023 Course Offerings
Session I — June 5 to June 23
Reconciliation, Anointing, Death (2 credits): Fr. Dennis Gill
The two “sacraments of healing” – anointing of the sick and penance – are covered in this course. An examination of the origin and development of the sacrament of penance sheds light on the Church’s revised rites and their theological underpinnings. The rites of the Church’s sacramental ministry to the sick and dying, and her funeral liturgy, are placed in the context of an anthropology which expresses the paschal character and eschatological significance of a Christian’s illness and death.
Liturgical Traditions: East and West (2 credits): Dr. Mark Therrien
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the rites and practices of non-Roman western Christian traditions (Anglican and other select Protestant groups), and to the liturgy as celebrated by eastern Christian communities (both Catholic and Orthodox). The origin and historical development of these traditions is considered. Particular attention is given both to distinctive theological themes within these rites and to the manner in which the renewal of western Catholic liturgy is occurring today as a result of contact with the theology and practice of the East.
Session II — June 26 to July 14
Ritual, Symbol, and Worship (1.5 credits): Chris Carstens
Symbol is the fundamental medium for religion and its ritual elaboration. The nature and function of symbol and ritual in liturgical worship is considered. The following are examined for their relevance to the understanding of Catholic worship: the phenomenology of religion; ritual anthropology; various theories of symbol; language theory. Particular attention is given to the manner in which modern symbolic studies provide an understanding of the scholastic maxim, “sacraments confer grace by signifying.”
Music and Worship ( 1.5 credits): Chris Carstens
The place of music in human culture is examined from the perspective of a philosophy of aesthetics. The historic role of music in the elaboration of the mysteries of the Christian faith is explained. The official documents of the Church produced during the twentieth century are discussed in detail. The current musical structure of the Roman liturgy is explored, and practical principles for the advancement and management of liturgical music programs are proposed
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the summer session?
The 2023 summer session begins on June 5 and ends on July 14. It is composed of two 3-week terms comprised of 2 classes each for a total of 7 semester credits.
What degree can I earn in attending the Liturgical Institute in the summer?
By attending the summers-only program of the Liturgical Institute, students can earn a Master’s Degree in Liturgy or a Master of Arts in Liturgical Studies. For more information on these degree programs, click here.
Does the Institute offer room and board for students?
The Institute offers single, air-conditioned rooms with private baths for all single students and the University dining hall serves meals throughout the summer session.
Can I attend the Liturgical Institute part-time?
Yes, part-time and at-large students are welcome at the Liturgical Institute after completing the standard application process. Come for one course or stay for the degree.
How many hours per day are students in class?
Typically, students are in class between 8:30 am and noon daily, with all afternoons and weekends left free for study and research.
What are the liturgical arrangements during the summer session?
Liturgical Institute students gather each day in the beautiful Chapel of the Immaculate Conception for chanted Morning and Evening Prayer from the Mundelein Psalter and Mass with chanted English Propers. Students and faculty usually form a small schola for the singing of Mass parts and motets.
What do summer students do for fun?
Though the summer schedule is rigorous, the Liturgical Institute sponsors special meals and day trips. Students also arrange for their own outings to cultural offerings of Chicago and Milwaukee. Evening gatherings for movies and fellowship are common.
