xavier university of louisiana - ibcsxula.com university of louisiana * the institute for black...

Xavier University of Louisiana

*

The Institute for Black Catholic Studies

*

*Master of Theology*

An Interdisciplinary Degree in

Pastoral Studies

Handbook

(Policies, Procedures, and Information)

IBCS Summer Session

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C O N T E N T S

History 3

Mission Statement 9

The Institute Experience 10

Educational Philosophy 11

Library Collection and Research Resources 12

Purpose of the Degree Program 13-14

Application Process and Admission Requirements 15-16

Tuition and Fees 17-18

Academic Information 19

Qualifying Examination 22

The Practicum (Plan A) 24

The Practicum (Plan B) 27

Oral Comprehensive Examination 31

Master of Theology Degree (Th.M.) Curriculum 32

Administration 38

XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA

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THE INSTITUTE

FOR

BLACK CATHOLIC STUDIES

HISTORY

The historical roots of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University of Louisiana

are intertwined with those of the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus (NBCCC), which was

founded in 1968 and the Black Catholic Theological Symposium (BCTS) that convened for the

first time October 12-15, 1978. The Symposium was organized under the auspices of the NBCCC

and directed by the creative leadership of the Reverend Thaddeus Posey, OFM Cap. In planning

this gathering, Father Posey worked in association with the Reverends Augustus Taylor and

David Benz and consulted with the Reverend Dr. Joseph Nearon, SSS and Sister Jamie Phelps,

OP. Their efforts brought together Black Catholic priests and vowed religious women and men

who were trained as pastoral and intellectual leaders and critical thinkers in the various

theological and ecclesial disciplines. This first assembly of the Symposium was held at the

Baltimore Motherhouse of the Oblate Sisters of Providence, the first Catholic religious

congregation of vowed Black women. Participants presented formal papers and responses that

addressed some of the topics crucial to the development of a distinctively Black Catholic

theological and pastoral response to the Black condition. These topics included values, self-

concept, liturgy, catechesis, and spirituality. The papers from this meeting were edited under the

direction of Father Posey and published as Theology: A Portrait in Black.

From Proposal to 'Pilot Program'

In the effort to sustain and support the pastoral theological reflection and work of Black Catholic

pastors and educators, Father Posey, with the encouragement of other Symposium participants,

presented a second proposal to the 1979 spring meeting of the Board of Directors of the NBCCC.

This proposal called for the establishment of an educational institute with a curriculum organized

around the pastoral and intellectual needs of Black Catholics and under their leadership and

direction. Still, such an educational institute was not an altogether new idea. In 1969, soon after

the founding of the NBCCC, Father Augustus Taylor, with genuine foresight, suggested the

creation of a structured academic program through which to share Black Catholic viewpoints

among ourselves and with the hierarchy, pastors, and religious women and men ministering in

African American communities. Given its embryonic state, the NBCCC was unable to actualize

this idea at the time. However, by 1979, with more than a decade of organizational and

programmatic experience, the National Black Clergy Caucus was ready to entertain and oversee

the implementation of such a plan. Furthermore, in the thinking of the NBCCC Board, Xavier

University of Louisiana the only Black Catholic university not only in the United States, but also

in the Western hemisphere – was the most likely academic site to accredit and to host the

program. With the approval of the NBCCC, Father Posey met with Dr. Norman Francis, President

of Xavier University in New Orleans, to explore hosting at Xavier an educational institute

focused on the pastoral and theological needs of Black Catholics. Further, the NBCCC Board

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instructed Father Posey to form a consultant group for the project. Members of this group

included the Reverends David Benz, Edward Branch, Sister Jamie Phelps, OP, and (the former

Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Sister, Toinette M. Eugene).

Very quickly, plans got underway for a 'pilot program' for 1980. In order to give the proposal a

broad base of support within the University and within the local Church, during the 1979-1980

academic year Dr. Francis and Father Posey scheduled a meeting with key administrators and

faculty at Xavier University and with the Catholic bishops of the Archdiocese of New Orleans. At

this meeting, at the request of Father Posey, Sister Phelps, who at the time was a doctoral

candidate in systematic theology at the Catholic University of America, gave a presentation on

the significance of such an educational program for the Church in its ministry to Black Catholics.

The Emergence of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies

The ‘pilot’ run of what is now known as the Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS) began in

the summer of 1980. The inaugural faculty and their courses were: the Reverend Dr. Cyprian

Davis, OSB, who taught "Church History," the Reverend Dr. Joseph Nearon, SSS, who taught

"Black Approaches to Scripture," and (the former Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Sister)

Toinette M. Eugene who taught "Black Approaches to Religious Education." Mr. Steve Wesley

had been scheduled to teach "Catholic Education in the Black Community," but the Course was

dropped. Father Posey served as Director of the Program. Sixteen (16) students registered for the

first summer session. Classes were held in St. Joseph Residence Hall and in the office of Campus

Ministry, which at the time was directed by the Reverend (now Bishop) Moses Anderson, SSE.

In February 1982, the Board of Trustees of Xavier University approved the curriculum design of

the Master Program in Pastoral Theology. This action empowered the Institute for Black Catholic

Studies to initiate the Degree Program that would be accredited and awarded through the

University's Graduate School. The faculty was expanded to include among others: Dr. Sister Thea

Bowman, FSPA, who offered courses in African American Literature and Preaching; the

Reverend Bede Abram, OFM Conv., STL, who replaced Toinette Eugene as instructor of "Black

Approaches to Theology," and Dr. Delores Harrell, SND de Namur, who taught "Catholic

Education in the Black Community."

The first graduation of candidates for the Th.M. program was held in July 1984. The graduates

were Sister Eva Marie Lumas, SSS, Sister Addie Lorraine Walker, SSND, and Reverend James

Voelker.

The Development of Certificate and Enrichment Programs

Although the years 1985 through 1993 were ones of programmatic and institutional development

for the Institute, its growth and extension started almost immediately. Since the first summer

session of the Institute, there has been a commitment to encourage and strengthen vocations to the

priesthood and to the religious life within the Black Catholic community. In 1981, the National

Black Sisters' Conference (NBSC) designated a committee comprised of Sisters Elizabeth Hams,

HVM, Rosetta Brown, OP, and Patricia Haley, SCN, to explore and to set up a program to

support Black candidates and vowed religious, seminarians and clergy in their spiritual journey.

One component of this program was to take place at the Institute. In consultation with Sister

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Phelps, the NBSC Committee designed and inaugurated the first session of the "Formation

Program” which was directed by Sister Haley and funded by the NBSC. The program aimed to

challenge and to assist Black candidates and vowed religious, seminarians and clergy in growth,

maturity and renewal in the spiritual life as well as to assist Vocation Formation Personnel of

religious congregations in working with Black candidates. This program built on and benefited

from the expertise the NBSC gained during the early and mid-1970’s when it conducted several

Institutes in Formation. By 1990 the “Formation Program” began to sponsor special sessions for

those involved in the process of vocation discernment as well as to support lay women and men

who are interested in personal spiritual growth and renewal. This undertaking has evolved to its

present format and is known as the "Vocation Enrichment Program."

During his tenure as Director, Father Joseph Nearon both stimulated and advocated the expansion

of educational components within IBCS through the initiative of IBCS faculty, students, and

alumni. The first of these expansions was the Master Catechist Certificate Program, a training and

formation program for Christian educators and catechists ministering in the Black community.

This program was coordinated and directed by Sisters Lumas and Walker. The Master Catechist

Program was the result of their collaboration on their practicums for the Th.M. Degree. In its

early years the Master Catechist Program was funded by grants from the NBSC. A second

expansion came through a proposal presented by Ms. Janice Jackson and Ms. Roxanne Byrd for

youth ministry, as well as the work of Ms. Valerie Shields for a Certificate Practicum. In the

summer of 1992, the Certificate Program in 'Youth Ministry' was established under the

collaborative leadership of Sister Jane Nesmith, SBS, and Ms. Shields. A program addressing

leadership in the parish was first suggested by Father Nearon and Sister Haley. The Reverend Dr.

Donald Sterling drew up the initial plans. The Certificate Program in ‘Leadership in the Faith

Community' was conducted for the first time in the summer of 1993 under the direction of Mr.

Leon Henderson.

Administrative Development

The emergence and growth of the various IBCS educational components has called forth the

creative, imaginative, and pedagogical talents as well as the administrative, evaluative, and

consultative gifts of many Black Catholic women and men. In 1982, Father Nearon joined the

faculty of Xavier University of Louisiana and assumed the position of Director of the Institute,

holding this position until his untimely death in 1984. From 1984-1985, Father Abram served as

Director of the Institute. During the early years, 1982-1985, Father Posey functioned as Assistant

Director of the Institute, but in 1985, he assumed the role of Director, working in this capacity

until 1991. From 1984 until 1990, the Reverend Dr. Cyprian Davis, OSB served as a kind of

'internal academic dean' to ensure the Institute's scholarly and pastoral integrity. From 1991

through 1994, The Reverend Dr. Joseph A. Brown, SJ, served the Institute as its director.

From the onset, the NBCCC recognized that if the 'pilot program' were to expand and thrive, the

administration and faculty would need to be open to critique and feedback from consultants and

advisors from a wide range of perspectives and expertise. To facilitate this process, Father Posey

drafted a plan for a committee of IBCS administrators, faculty, and student representatives along

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with appropriate Xavier University administrators to work out policies for the Institute regarding

curriculum, degree and Certificate requirements, faculty hiring, student admissions, etc. The

Committee, which assumed responsibility for these decisions, was the precursor of the current

IBCS Policy Committee. In addition, an Advisory Committee comprised of prominent African

American Catholic laity, religious, and clergy supported the IBCS in fiscal, recruiting and public

relations matters. From the beginning, Dr. Norman Francis has pledged the support of the

Institute by Xavier University by making it clear that the Institute was a presidential priority.

In 1994, The IBCS Policy Committee in collaboration with the Deans of Xavier University's

School, first Dr. Nathaniel Felder then Dr. Alvin Richard began a review of the Institute's

operating policies and procedures. During this time, the day-to-day, on site operations of the

IBCS were handled by Ms. Valerie Shields, while a Core Administrative Team - Dr. M. Shawn

Copeland, Mr. Leon Henderson, M.A. (Associate Director of Student Life), Sister Dr. Jamie

Phelps, OP (Acting Associate Director for the Degree Program), Dr. Addle L. Walker, SSND

(Associate Director for Certificate and Enrichment Programs) supervised administrative and

programmatic matters.

After a national search in 1996, Xavier University President Norman Francis named Sister Eva

Regina Martin, SSF, Ph.D., the Director of the IBCS effective in August 1997. In the same year,

Sister Martin confirmed the following appointments: Sister Dr. Jamie Phelps, OP, Associate

Director for the Degree Program, Dr. Addie L. Walker, SSND, Associate Director for Certificate

and Enrichment Programs, Mr. Leon Henderson, M.A., Associate Director of Student Life. In the

year 2000, Sister Eva Regina Martin appointed Sister Dr. Eva Marie Lumas, SSS Associate

Director for Certificate and Enrichment Programs.

She also appointed Dr. Veronica Morgan Lee to the position of Associate Director for the Degree

Program but because of illness Dr. Morgan Lee was unable to serve in this capacity. In her place

Dr. Shawn Copeland served as Acting Associate from 2000 – 2003. During her term, Sister Eva

Regina Martin introduced several new initiatives: an institute journal entitled Sacred Rock which

published the writings of graduating students and faculty along with some papers from students

participating in the certificate programs. Sister also initiated a program called Youth

Empowerment with high school student as participants. Finally, she inaugurated the IBCS

Preaching Institute. In 2003, Sister Eva Regina Martin was elected to a congregational leadership

position leading to relinquishing her responsibilities as Director of the Institute. The university

began a second search for a Director.

During the interim Dr. M. Shawn Copland, Associate Director for the Degree Program, Sister Eva

Lumas, Associate Director of the Certificate and Enrichment Programs and Dr. George Franklin ,

Acting Associate Director for Community Life collaborated as a team under the leadership of

Ms. Kathleen Dorsey Bellow who served as Coordinator of the Institute. In 2003 Dr. Norman

Francis appointed Sister Dr. Jamie Phelps, OP as the Institute’s Director effective August, 2003.

In October 2003 she appointed Dr. Copeland as Associate Director for the Degree Program and

confirmed the continuance of Dr. George and Sister Dr. Eva Lumas. In 2004, Sister Dr. Phelps

appointed Br. Mukasa Theodore, OSB as Acting Associate Coordinator for Community Life. Dr.

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Cecilia A. Moore and Dr. Kathleen Dorsey Bellow were appointed Associate Director for the

Degree Program and Associate Director for the Certificate and Enrichment Program respectively.

Due to fluctuating interest and enrollment, the C&E Catechist Formation, Youth Ministry and

Leadership in the Faith Community programs were formally evaluated. In 2005, the C&E Policy

Committee recommended to the IBCS Director that the C&E Program be restructured in three

one-week modules that respond to the ongoing need for faith and pastoral ministry formation in

the Black community and address the challenges of time and money faced by many volunteers.

C&E students who were currently working towards certification in the Youth Ministry and

Catechist Formation programs would be allowed to complete their course of study and achieve

certification. C&E certification processes would be otherwise suspended while the Committee

continued to study the ministry needs of dioceses and the direction of the United States

Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) regarding the formation of lay ecclesial ministers.

Recognizing its importance in the development of parish life, it was proposed that a focus on

Young Adult Ministry be added to the Youth Ministry track.

The new format was first implemented during the summer of 2006 when the IBCS met at the

University of Notre Dame (UND). The previous August, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf of

Mexico causing great destruction in Mississippi and Louisiana. New Orleans, including Xavier

University, suffered extensive damage as a result of Katrina. Offers of assistance came in from

many universities across the country. UND administrators proposed to Dr. Francis that the IBCS

meet on its Indiana campus. Sister Dr. Phelps moved to Notre Dame and set up operations for the

2006 session. Under Dr. Francis’ leadership, XULA underwent extensive repairs and returned to

service in time for the 2007 gathering of the IBCS.

In 2008, Reverend Dr. Roy Lee joined the IBCS staff as Acting Coordinator for Community Life.

He was followed by Br. Eric “Mukasa” Theodore, OSB, who held the position in 2009.

Reverend Dr. Lee returned to the Institute as Coordinator for Community Life in 2010. In 2011,

Sister Dr. Phelps resigned as Director of the Institute to continue her research and writing. Dr.

Loren J. Blanchard, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, appointed Dr. Pamela R. Franco

as Interim Director. Her tenure lasted for three years. During the three year period of the IBCS

having an interim director, Xavier University’s administration conducted an external review of

the IBCS in general and the Th.M. degree program in particular. The External Review Committee

submitted several recommendations seeking to enhance and progress the IBCS and its operation.

In 2013, Dr. Francis appointed Dr. Kirk P. Gaddy, Ed.D. as Associate Director for the Master

degree program, and Dr. timone davis as Associate Director of the C&E programs. In the Fall of

2013, a national search for a new Director of the IBCS was conducted. Reverend Dr. Maurice J.

Nutt, C.Ss.R. was selected as the new director and began his tenure on June 30, 2014.

A Unique Venture to Enrich Our Church

From its inception, the Institute has proved to be a unique venture. With its intimate academic

association with Xavier University of Louisiana, IBCS is the first and primary national center for

the study of the Black Catholic experience. The Institute's constituent programs bring together

theory and practice, systematic and pastoral theology, rigorous academic study and committed

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ministry, classroom learning and practical application, rural and urban ministerial concerns, the

marketplace and the church. Conceived in an interdisciplinary context, the various program

components of the Institute advance a holistic appreciation of the human person. In critical

appropriation of the African heritage of Black Catholics, the Institute is intentionally

intergenerational and accords a place of special honor and respect to the Elders of our

community. The Institute's faculty is an outstanding group of nationally and internationally

respected African American and African priests, vowed religious and laity who are pastoral

leaders and educators, scholars and researchers. The IBCS strives in every way to meet the charge

Pope Paul VI issued to Catholics of African descent - to enrich our Roman Catholic Church with

our "precious and original contribution" of Blackness.

http://www.dioceseofprovidence.org/files/Jesus%20Christ%20Liberator.jp

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MISSION STATEMENT OF THE INSTITUTE

To be the premiere institution for educating and forming spiritually and culturally

competent, effective pastoral ministers for the Black Catholic community, domestically

and globally.

MISSION STATEMENT OF XAVIER UNIVERSITY

Xavier University of Louisiana is a Catholic and historically Black institution. The

ultimate purpose of the University is the promotion of a more just and humane society.

To this end, Xavier prepares its students to assume roles of leadership and service in

society. This preparation takes place in a pluralistic teaching and learning

environment that incorporates all relevant educational means, including research and

community service. So that they will be able to assume roles of leadership and service,

Xavier graduates will be: prepared for continual spiritual, moral, and intellectual

development; liberally educated in the knowledge and skills required for leadership

and service; and educated in a major field so that they are prepared to complete

graduate or professional school and to succeed in a career and in life

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THE INSTITUTE EXPERIENCE

The Institute offers more than an academic education. Each member of the community is also

expected to meet the responsibility of participating in the religious, social, and cultural activities

sponsored by the Institute. These activities provide for the deepening and enriching of the lives of

students and faculty and are irreducible elements of the educational process. However, the

Institute is a complete experience because we celebrate the freedom given by God the Liberator

to all. In daily Morning Praise (and optional daily celebration of the Eucharist), the members of

the Institute come to life as a community transformed by faith. The pedagogy of collaborative,

participative learning informs all classroom experience and permeates the general atmosphere of

the Institute summer sessions. From the gathering at Morning Prayer to the group study sessions

late into the night, blending into the meals, cultural excursion and purposeful social recreation

activities crafted within the schedule sharing, mutual respect and support are hallmarks of the

Institute experience. IBCS participants set down deep roots for the establishment of what is, for

many, a primary community. Because the students in IBCS programs are required to develop

Practicum projects that will benefit the larger communities in which they serve, what has been

shaped and shared during the summer session has benefit throughout the year. One measure of the

success of the IBCS vision is the imaginative, intelligent, dedicated leadership of students, staff

and faculty of the IBCS in the Black Catholic community on local, regional, national and

international levels,

.

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EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

The curriculum of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies has been developed to support effective

and professional ministry. To this end, the curriculum challenges the student to recognize

contemporary theological and pastoral issues, to engage in social and cultural efforts for justice,

and to confront all these in the light of the Gospel and the Catholic Christian tradition.

The curriculum of the entire Institute is structured from an interdisciplinary and participative

vantage point, shaped around solid theological core courses, and focused on critical reflection

regarding pastoral work. The Institute assists the student in achieving the following objectives:

1. to appropriate the religious and cultural value, the history and the contributions of Black

Catholics to the Roman Catholic Church, particularly in the United States

2. to understand the emergence and development of African American Christianity;

3. to engage methods and interpretative approaches to theology and philosophy, liturgy and

worship, sacramental ministry and preaching, catechetics and pastoral ministry that

reflect Black African American religious and cultural experiences;

4. to address ethical and moral questions relating to the Black community; to critically

appropriate and understand the culture and arts of the African American peoples;

5. to develop methods of education and styles of leadership for the benefit of the rural and urban Black community;

6. to sponsor and conduct research on historical, social (i.e., political, economic, and

technological), cultural issues that impinge on the spiritual, the psychic, and the physical

health of the Black community.

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LIBRARY COLLECTION AND RESEARCH RESOURCES

(Federal Depository, Internet Journals, Instructional Media Center and

Archives/Special Collections)

Xavier University Library collection is currently composed of approximately 135,000 volumes

and more than 1,500 active serial titles. The microform collection numbers over 725,000 units,

and there are more than 2,500 Federal documents received as part of the FEDERAL

DEPOSITORY PROGRAM. http://www.xula.edu/library/govdocs

The INSTRUCTIONAL MEDIA CENTER http://www.xula.edu/instmedia/index.php holds

nearly 6,000 recordings on compact disc, tape, or vinyl disk, and nearly 1,600 VHS tapes.

Located on the fourth floor of the Library Resource Center, the center offers both traditional and

non-traditional media and learning technologies to faculty, staff and students to enhance the

traditional classroom experience.

http://www.xula.edu/library/onlineresources.php INTERNET JOURNALS-

Full-text articles in major publications in the sciences and humanities are available through the

Internet’s Journal Storage project, and twenty-six computers provide access to all electronic data

from all four floors of the Library facility.

IBCS students have full library privileges at Loyola University of the South, a local Jesuit

institution located at 6363 St. Charles Ave. Inter-library loan of materials from other universities

must be arranged through Xavier’s library.

When the Institute for Black Catholic Studies convenes during Summer Session II, the library is

open from 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Monday – Thursday);7:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Friday);8:00 AM –

8:00 PM (Saturday);2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Sunday). The library is closed on July 4th,

Independence Day. Research assistance in person and by telephone, FAX, mail, and e-mail. Instructional sessions in

effective library usage and research strategies are available by appointment.

http://www.xula.edu/library/archives --At the center of the library’s publicly accessible

collections is the UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES AND SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, which

specializes in the history of the University, African-American history and culture, creative writing

of the modern South, local history, and United States Catholicism. Here, students may see a

collection of letters written by Richard Wright, original manuscripts by Langston Hughes,

Chester Himes, and Robert Hayden, and rare photographs of Booker T. Washington and

Marcus Garvey. UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES - On the shelves are early books and incunabula,

rare and autographed books by William Faulkner, Shirley Ann Grau, John A. Williams,

Terry McMillan and Walter Mosley. Other treasures include one of the few known copies of

Les Cenelles, the first anthology of poetry by people of African descent in the United States, an

early reprint of Phyllis Wheatley’s poems, a poem in the hand of Frederick Douglass, and a

collection of draft manuscripts by Louisiana-born fiction writer Andre Dubus.

Xavier Archives collects unpublished and rare published items on four topics, the history of

Xavier University of Louisiana, African-American history and culture, Roman Catholicism in the

United States, and the Southern U. S. and the Gulf-Caribbean region, with special emphasis on

the history of Louisiana and New Orleans. By June 30, 2008, the repository held 1,721.8 linear ft.

of unpublished materials. The University records measured 1,324.6 linear ft., the manuscript

http://www.xula.edu/library/govdocs

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special collections 397.2 linear ft. Xavier Archives also holds the University’s collection of non-

circulating rare books and periodicals. The oldest monograph is Flavius Josephus’s De

Antiquitate Judaica, published in 1486. The rarest is Les Cenelles [The Mayhaws], published in

New Orleans in 1845, the first anthology of poetry by people of African descent in the U. S.,

which is held in OCLC (the Online Computer Library Center, which covers some 45,000

libraries in 84 countries) by only four libraries. African-American and Southern U. S. writers

are especially well represented in Rare Books, and the repository is noted for having one of

the most comprehensive collections of works by African-American protest and crime fiction

writer Chester Himes, with most titles represented in every English-language edition and

translation into foreign languages that has been published.

The University's own historically valuable records represent by far the repository's largest

unpublished collection, measuring 917.2 linear feet. The very large record groups are as

follows: President; Vice President; Dean; Academic Dean and Vice President for Academic

Affairs; Dean of Arts and Sciences; Development Planning; Institutional Research;

University and Media relations, Student Services; Library; Institute for Black Catholic

Studies

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DESCRIPTION OF MASTER OF THEOLOGY DEGREE

The Graduate Division of the College of Arts and Sciences of Xavier University offers a

Master of Theology, Th.M., degree through the Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS).

The Th.M. degree is an interdisciplinary degree in pastoral theology. The master’s degree

program is designed to provide graduate-level professional education in systematic and

pastoral theologies, pastoral ministry, preaching, catechetics, ethics, aesthetics, history and

the social sciences with a focus that reflects the Black religious, cultural and Catholic

experience. The program brings together theory and practice in an interdisciplinary context of

rigorous academic study to provide students with knowledge, skills and values needed for

professional ministry in the Black community. The program has a diverse set of goals that are

sensitive to the professional and pastoral interest of the students. The focus of the graduate

studies is lay ministers, vowed religious and deacons, as well as clergy who are engaged in or

preparing for ministry in Catholic parishes and diocesan offices in the areas of parish

leadership, religious education, liturgical leadership, campus ministry and education.

The Master degree focuses on the religious, cultural, and historical contributions of Black

Catholics to the Roman Catholic Church in the United States. To that end, the program

engages students in the theological traditions, pastoral methods and approaches that reflect

the Black religious and cultural experiences of Black Catholics and the Black community.

The IBCS graduate degree program develops the student’s competencies in contemporary

pastoral and theological practices.

Graduates from the IBCS degree program will be able to:

• recognize the ministry needs in the Black community

• draw on sound pastoral and inter-disciplinary theological theory to respond to those needs

• understand the culture, tradition and faith experiences of Blacks in the Catholic Church.

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PURPOSE OF THE DEGREE PROGRAM

The Institute for Black Catholic Studies provides a resource and research center for the study

of the Black Catholic community in the United States. The Master of pastoral Theology

Program (Th.M.) began at Xavier in 1980. It is the only graduate program in pastoral

theology taught primarily from a Black Catholic perspective in the United States. Like the

other educational components of the Institute, the Th.M. degree program offers courses that

focus on Black approaches, critiques, and contributes to history, philosophy, systematic and

pastoral theologies, preaching, catechetics, aesthetics, and pastoral ministry.

The graduate degree program blends rigorous academic and personal learning. It equips

students with methodological tools for critical understanding, analysis, and evaluation. At the

same time, the program helps students integrate theory and praxis, theology and pastoral

ministry. An integration of this nature should result in sound personal growth, continual

building of the faith community life, end an effective ministry.

As an integral part of its programs, the Institute expects the graduate students to participate

fully in all aspects of IBCS community life. Liturgical experiences, social engagements,

shared meals, and collaborative study groups are all part of the IBCS “experience.” To

facilitate this, all IBCS participants are strongly encouraged to live on campus during the

summer session.

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APPLICATION PROCESS

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution who demonstrate successful

academic and professional potential for ministry will be considered. Admission to the Graduate

Degree Program depends on admission to the Graduate Division of the College of Arts and

Sciences of Xavier University. Applicants for admission must:

1. Submission of the completed Graduate Division of the College of Arts and Sciences

application form accompanied by the application fee.

2. Possession of baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.

3. Submission of an official transcript(s) of all undergraduate and, where applicable, of

all post-baccalaureate course work. Full admission requires an overall minimum

average of 2.5 (on a scale of 4.0). An applicant with a Master degree must submit

both official graduate transcripts to the Graduate Division of the College of Arts and

Sciences.

4. Submission of letters of recommendation

5. Submission of scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller

Analogies Test (MAT). Minimum acceptance is 800 on the GRE (verbal and

Quantitative) or 30 on the MAT. Scores must be within five years of application to

the Graduate Division of the College of Arts and Sciences. The testing agency must submit those

scores directly to the Graduate Division of the College of Arts and Sciences. An applicant

possessing a Master degree from an accredited institution is not required to take the GRE or

MAT.

6. Evidence of proficiency in written English. International applicants must present the results

from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

7. Complete the University Health Clearance.

NOTE: Students requesting scholarship assistance must submit the scholarship application form.

Applications can be obtained from the IBCS office.

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TRANSCRIPT POLICY

The transcripts for admission purpose must be official copies sent directly from the

originating school or college to the Graduate Division of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Unofficial transcripts submitted by applicants are not acceptable for admission purposes.

ADMISSION TO THE DEGREE PROGRAM FULL ACCEPTANCE An applicant is granted full acceptance provided all admissions requirements have been

completed: GRE or MAT score, official transcript & baccalaureate degree with a minimum

overall average of 2.5 (based on a 4.0 grade point scale), letters of recommendation, personal

interview, and approval by the Admissions officer of the Graduate Division of the College of

Arts and Sciences and the Associate Director of the Th.M. Degree program.

CONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE An applicant with a minor deficiency in these requirements may be admitted conditionally,

contingent upon removal of the deficiency in the time and manner prescribed by the

Associate Director of the Th.M. Degree Program.

REGISTRATION AND ORIENTATION Registration and orientation are held on the last Sunday of June.

REGISTRATION Registration begins at Health Services. Students with prior health clearances from Health

Services will be given permission to begin registration at Xavier South. Students may obtain

health clearance on the day of registration by presenting necessary documentation. Without

health clearance, students will not be allowed to register for courses.

Advisors and Program Directors assist the students with registration. Registration includes

providing the registrar’s office with a completed course schedule approved by the Associate

Director of the Degree Program, satisfying tuition payments with the Office of Student

Accounts, purchasing books and receiving a student ID card.

ORIENTATION Community Life staff is available to welcome, assist and direct students as they arrive on

campus.

Orientation is held on Sunday evening immediately following registration. The orientation is

an opportunity for the IBCS administration and faculty to welcome new and returning

students to the IBCS program. During the orientation students receive information that will

assist them throughout the summer session. Students and faculty meet the program’s staff and

are informed of the University’s and the Graduate Division of the College of Arts and

Sciences’ policies and procedures, the location of key buildings on campus and activities

schedules. Continuing students serve as mentors and facilitators in small group discussions.

***Ordinarily non-local students are encouraged to stay on campus and to share housing

(double occupancy) to facilitate community and to encourage collaborative study

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INSTITUTE FOR BLACK CATHOLIC STUDIES

SUMMER FEE SCHEDULE 2016

APPLICATION FEES (fees subject to change) (REQUIRED OF ALL STUDENTS: These fees are non-refundable)

$35.00 Application Fee (due at the time of registration with completed application)

$55.00 Housing Reservation Fee

HOUSING FEES (fees subject to change)

(REQUIRED OF ALL ON-CAMPUS RESIDENTS) $ 10 – Student I.D. Processing Fee

$ 15 – Laundry Fee

$ 140 – Activity Fee (covers general program and Community Life costs)

$ 250 - Room & Board - per week double occupancy *** (2 week $ 500); (3 weeks $750)

$ 360 - Room & Board - per week single occupancy ** (2 week $720; (3 weeks $1080)

(**Requested by some seminarian formation directors in compliance with Episcopal guidelines

as well as some of our older adult students who have special needs.)

MASTER DEGREE PROGRAM FEES (fees subject to change)

$250 – Tuition per Semester Hour (3 Semester Hours = $750 per course)

ALL OTHER FEES ARE DUE at registration:

If the student’s tuition and required fees are included in a check issued by a joint sponsoring

agent or group, be sure to supply accompanying documentation that clearly identifies the

name of the student, his/her program of study, and any itemized monetary disbursements.

Do not include money for the student’s textbooks, class materials, supplies, copying, etc. in

the tuition and fee check

Make and bring a documentation file containing copies of all application information with

you: correspondence, application, health clearance, checks and related data, etc.

TECHNOLOGY FEES – (Master Degree only)

1. 1 – 4 credit hours $100.00 i.e. one semester hours (course 3 credit hours)

2. 5 – 11 credit hours $200.00 i.e. two semester hours (courses 6 credit hours)

3. 12 and up credit hours $400.00

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Please send all correspondence(s) and payment(s) by registered mail to


Institute for Black Catholic Studies

1 Drexel Drive - Box 49

New Orleans, Louisiana 70125

Make all checks payable to:

Xavier University of Louisiana / IBCS

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ACADEMIC INFORMATION

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF THEOLOLGY DEGREE

Th.M. (An interdisciplinary Degree in Pastoral Studies)

The Institute for Black Catholic Studies, in adherence to the rules and regulations of Xavier

University of Louisiana, follows the guidelines for accreditation established by the

Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

All students will be required to complete:

1. Forty (40) hours of graduate credit

Core Courses (22 hours)

Electives (12 hours)

Practicum (6 hours)

2. A major paper which is evaluated on the quality and value of the research and

methodology as well as the evidence of thorough theological integration of the

instruction received in the program.

3. A written qualifying examination on the core and area requirements, which must be

completed before the student is admitted to candidacy for the degree.

4. A comprehensive oral examination based on the Practicum and the major paper.

5. A Practicum that entails supervised work in the Black community and represents

an initiative directed toward systemic change in pastoral ministry among Black

Catholics.

While the major work for the degree is usually done during the three-week summer session

(for five to seven summers), some graduate courses are offered during the regular academic

year on the Xavier campus.

A student may register for courses as a non-degree-seeking student with the approval of the

Vice President of Academic Affairs. The student may retain this status for no more than two

summers. In no case will anyone be allowed to take more than nine (9) credit hours as a non-

credit-seeking student or transient student.

TRANSFER CREDIT Students are allowed to transfer up to six (6) hours of credit done in

an accredited institution. Credit is awarded to the student based on the following:

• An official transcript of the course from the Graduate Division of the College of Arts and Sciences or seminary in which it was offered • A copy of the University catalogue description of the course

• A copy of the syllabus used in the course under consideration

• A list of the books used in the course under consideration

• A copy of the graded graduate research paper completed for the course.

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ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY A graduate student does not become an actual candidate for a degree until granted formal

admission to candidacy. To be admitted to candidacy, the student must complete a qualifying

examination on at least three Core and Area requirements and the semester hours required as

cited in Requirements for Completion of the Th.M. degree. The student must, also, have

removed all deficiencies, obtained written approval of his/her advisor, signed the Application

for Candidacy form, and received approval from the Graduate Council.

DEGREE PROGRAM TIMELINE The following recommended “time line” may assist students in successfully completing the

course of study and requirements for the Th.M. Degree Program.

I. Assignment of Academic Advisor First Summer

II. Qualifying Examination Third Summer

III. Major Paper Presented Fourth Summer

IV. Practicum Project (Proposed) Fourth Summer

Practicum Project (Presented) Between the Fourth/Fifth Summers

V. Comprehensive Examination Fifth Summer

Master Degree Graduates, Certification Awardees (holding degrees and Certificate)

with Administration, Faculty and Staff

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I. ASSIGNMENT OF ACADEMIC ADVISOR

Advising responsibilities are assumed by the graduate faculty in the following capacities: Academic Advisor, Research Advisor, and Practicum Advisors.

A. Academic Advisor Although the Associate Director of the Degree Program gives final approval to all project and

program requirements, each student is assigned an Academic Advisor at the time of entrance

into the Degree Program. The Academic Advisor will assist the student in the design of her

or his individualized course of study. Thus, the Academic Advisor is the primary contact for

discussing the fulfillment of all degree requirements and gives initial approval to the

Practicum project and to the topic of the Major Research Paper.

B. Research Advisor A faculty member whose training and/or expertise lie in the student’s major area of

concentration serves as the Research Advisor. The Research Advisor also may or may not be

the student‘s Academic advisor. The Research Advisor assumes the role of primary advisor

for the Major Paper.

C. Practicum Advisor Depending upon the topic for the Practicum Project, the Practicum Advisor may or may not

be the student’s Academic Advisor. The Practicum Advisor assumes the role principal

consultant for the Practicum. The student is expected to choose an advisor working within

her/his area of concentration or interest.

D. Student Participation in Advisement It is the joint responsibility of the student and the Academic Advisor to plan the student’s

program and to consult as necessary with the Associate Director for the Degree Program. The

student should feel free to communicate with the Academic Advisor outside the period of the

summer session. The student must assume the primary responsibility fulfilling all degree

requirements and meeting all deadlines.

E. Change of Advisor Students may request a change of Research or Practicum Advisor, but are expected to consult

with the Academic Advisor. In all cases, the permission of the Associate Director for the

Degree Program is required. A Student is expected to choose a Research or Practicum

Advisor whose scholarly field is within or attends to the student’s area of concentration.

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II. QUALIFYING EXAMINATION

This examination serves as an opportunity for a detailed review of the material encountered

in those courses designed as the Core and Area Requirements for the Th. M. degree Program.

A qualifying examination, which is written, is required of every candidate for the Master

degree.

A. Prerequisite for the Qualifying Examination

At least three (3) Core courses (and appropriate courses from the Area Requirements) and the

Qualifying Examination must be completed successfully in order to apply for candidacy of

the Degree Program.

B. Application for the Qualifying Examination

The written Qualifying Examination is given on the first Saturday of the summer session.

The student is required to take the Qualifying Examination on three (3) of the six (6) Core

courses (or from among the appropriate Area Requirements). The Qualifying Examination

may be retaken.

The student is expected to notify the Associate Director of the Degree Program of her or his

intentions to take the examination by letter no later than February 1st of the year in which

she or he proposes to sit for the examination.

The Associate Director for the Degree Program will send an application form, which must be

returned before the Study Questions can be distributed? The form will require a listing of the

Core and other required courses taken by the applicant. In addition, all of the student’s

academic records must be in order.

In February, the Study Questions in the respective areas will be sent to applicants. These

questions should be viewed as guidelines for study. The Study Questions are not the

questions that will compose the examination.

C. Procedure for the Examination 1. The examination may be written in any appropriate medium (i.e., script, typewriter, and

computer).

2. Primary sources may be used (e.g., the Bible), but no secondary sources are to be used

(i.e., works of interpretation, commentaries, class notes, etc.)

3. The examinations should be completed within allotted time (3hrs.) and returned to the

faculty member administering the examination.

4. The written examinations and the grades will be deposited in the Graduate Degree Office

files of the Associate Director for the Degree Program.

Upon successful completion of the Qualifying Examination, the students are expected to

begin development of the Major Research paper. Students are required to participate in:

IBTH 5997 Integrative Colloquium which specifically aids the students in the development

of their research and practicum proposals.

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III. THE MAJOR RESEARCH PAPER

The major research paper should be an in-depth study by the student on a topic agreed

upon with the Research Advisor. It is an independent project, but the Degree Faculty

strongly that, whenever possible, it be related to the Practicum. The Degree Faculty

believes quite firmly that the Major Research Paper and the Practicum Project ought to complement one another. Thus, Th.M. Degree students are strongly

encouraged to design and prepare the Major Research Paper in such a way that it

provides the theological and theoretical foundation for the Practicum.

The following guidelines detail the planning and completion of the Major Research

Paper:

A. Procedures for Preparing and Submitting the Major Research Paper The student should submit a proposal to the Research Advisor that includes a statement of the

focus or major thesis of the paper, an outline, and a bibliography. A first draft of the research

paper should be turned in to the Research Advisor the year before the formal submission is

required. This ensures that any difficulties or improvements concerning the paper can be

addressed in a timely and effective manner.

The completed paper should be no less than twenty-five (25) page in length. The format

(footnotes, bibliography, quotations, spacing, etc.) is to conform either to Kate Turabian, 4

Manual of Writers of Term Papers, Thesis, and Dissertations or to the Modern Language

Association (MLA) format.

Within three (3) days following the successful completion of the Oral Comprehensive

Examination, the student is required to present three (3) bound copies of the Major Research

Paper and Practicum Report to the Associate Director for the Degree program who passes the

copies on the Director of the Institute for the Xavier Archives and Institute files.

B. Evaluation of the Major Research Paper The paper will be evaluated on the quality and value of the research and method as well as

evidence of theological integration. The Research Advisor and one other Reader, who is chosen

from the IBCS faculty by the Research Advisor in consultation with the student, judge the paper.

Two (2) factors are determinative of the evaluation of the Major Research Paper:

1. The Quality of the Research, i.e. a. significance of the research topic or subject; b. the clarity and intellectual creativity in defining the problem or question; c. the depth and scope of theological understanding and integration relative to the problem or question or topic; d. the appropriateness and quality resources used; and the validity conclusions.

2. Method a. clear and distinct understanding and statement of the research or interpretative methods used,

along with clear understanding of the relation of those methods to African derived cultures; and

b. rigor and intellectual creativity in application of the methods.

DEPOSIT OF GRADUATE RESEARCH PAPERS The bound copies and signed comments

of the two (2) readers awarding the grade are to be filed in the Office of the Director of Institute

for Black Catholic Studies. Copies of the bond copies of the research papers are also deposited in

Xavier Institute for Black Catholic Studies Archives.

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VI. THE PRACTICUM Upon successful completion of the Major Research Paper, the students are expected to

develop a topic for the Practicum Project. The purpose of the Practicum Project is to

demonstrate the student’s serious and critical integration of course work and pastoral

ministry, whether in the parish or in the classroom or through social ministries. The

Major Research Paper identifies, elucidates, and develops the theological and

theoretical foundation for the Practicum Project. The Practicum is to develop pastoral

programs or engage-in-research projects that will make a contribution to the larger

ecclesial and social community

The following guidelines detail the planning and completion of the Practicum:

A. PRACTICUM PLAN A: WORK IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY

1. Specific Guidelines and Procedures for Practicum Plan A:

a. The degree student contacts the Academic Advisor with tentative proposal or ideas

for the Major Research Paper and the Practicum.

b. The Academic Advisor recommends appropriate Research and Practicum Advisors.

The student then submits the proposal and the names of he suggested Advisors to the

Practicum Committee for review, consultation, and approval.

c. Once the Practicum Project has been approved by the practicum Committee and after

the Major Research and Practicum Advisors have been selected, the research on the

major paper should be deepened and the proposal for the Practicum should be

developed and refined by the student and the Practicum Advisor.

d. After final review, the Practicum Proposal is submitted in accord with the approved

format to the Practicum Committee, which will present the Proposal to the Associate

Director for the Degree Program for final approval. A copy of the practicum Proposal

is kept in the student’s file at all times.

e. Upon approval and in consultation with the Practicum Advisor,

i. An Observer of the Practicum is designated. If the Observers are someone (in rare

cases) other than the Practicum Advisor, the Observer is designated by the Practicum Advisor in consultation with the student.

ii. The student’s Academic Advisor and the Associate Director for the Degree Program will be informed of this designation.

iii. The dates for the Practicum Review are established in consultation with the designated Observer.

iv. The actual implementation of the Practicum is to be recorded on videotape. If this is impossible, a significant portion of the Practicum is to be tape-recorded. A ten (10) minute summary tape should be prepared for the Oral Comprehensive Examination.

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v. The Academic Advisor and the Associate Director of the Degree Program should be kept informed of the development of the Practicum (dates of the Practicum, etc.).

a) The observer of the Practicum submits a written report to the Associate Director of the

Degree Program. Four (4) copies of the report will be made and distributed to the members of

the Oral Comprehensive Examination Committee (see the Practicum Evaluation Form and

Guidelines on page 27 below).

b) The student prepares the written report to the Practicum Committee.

c) The students provide four (40 bound copies of the report to the Associate Director of the

Degree Program. These copies will be distributed to the members of the Oral Comprehensive

Examination Committee.

d) The Oral Comprehensive Examination on the Practicum and Major Research Paper is

scheduled according to guideline detailed in this Program Book (see suggested schedules for

Practicum Plans A and B on pages 29).

HISTORIC PICTURE

HONORING THE FOUNDER AND SOME OF THE ELDERS (70 years of age plus) OF THE BLACK

CATHOLIC COMMUNITY

ON THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY (2005) OF THE INSTITUTE FOR BLACK CATHOLIC STUDIES (IBCS)

Fr. Thaddeus Posey, OFM Cap., Ph.D., (IBCS Founder), Fr. August Thompson, Sr. Mary Antona Ebo, FSMS,

Bishop Dominic Carmon, SVD; Bishop Joseph Perry STD, DD. (Guest celebrant), Sr. Jamie T. Phelps, O.P.,

Ph.D.,( Director of IBCS), Fr. Cyprian Davis, OSB, D. Hist.,

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2. PROPOSAL FORMAT (PLAN A):

COVER SHEET

Titles; Subtitles;

Submitted in partial fulfillment

of requirements for the Th.M. Degree Program,

Institute for Black Catholic Studies,

Xavier University, New Orleans, LA;

Student’s Name;

Date submitted;

Blank line for date approved;

Blank line for

signature of instructor.

PHILOSOPHY Statement of student understands of ministry in the Black

community.

RATIONALE Statement of need; include supporting material, e.g.

demographics of the area of concern.

GOALS Statement of mission: What you want to accomplish with your

Practicum.

OBJECTIVES Participant-centered tasks that will achieve your goals

PARTICIPANTS Who will be participating (adults, youth, families, etc.)

DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM Components of program; details of program (step by step

process).

THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATION Theological, pastoral, ethical, or moral issues;

implications for ministry.

RESOURCES Bibliography (books, articles, journals, charts, interviews, etc.)

EVALUATION Summary of Practicum: Was it a success or does it need

revising?

APPENDIX Samples of fliers, handouts, etc.

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B. PRACTICUM PLAN B: THE HISTORICAL ESSAY Students who choose this plan in order to fulfill the Practicum Project requirements are expected

to conduct historical research and prepare an essay that approaches originality of investigation

and makes a contribution to the retrieval and reclamation & Black religious history.

1. Specific Guidelines and procedures for practicum Plan B:

a) The subject of the essay should be able to be summarized in a basic question: for

example, What were the circumstances that led to the establishment of this black

parish? There may be a subsequent or minor question: for example, What

circumstances led to the growth and development of this black parish?

b) The proposal should be submitted to the student’s Academic Advisor. After

Advisor’s approval the proposal will then be submitted to the Practicum Committee,

which will offer the proposal for review to one or more members of the faculty.

c) Upon completion of this review process, with the initial approval of the Practicum

Committee and the faculty consultant, the student will submit the revised proposal

and the name of the Practicum Advisor to the Associate Director of the Degree

Program.

d) Upon completion of the Historical Essay, and after a review by the Practicum

Advisor, the student will submit four (4) bound copies of the essay to the Associate

Director of the Degree Program. The copies will be submitted to the designated

members of the Oral Comprehensive Examination Panel.

e) The Oral Comprehensive Examination on the Historical Essay is scheduled

according to the guidelines found elsewhere in his edition of the IBCS Program

Book (see suggested schedules for practicum Plans A and B on pages 29).

2. Formal Elements of the Historical Essay:

a) The historical essay ought to engage questions of genuine interest to the student and

relate to the study of Black Catholic history. The subject of the Historical Essay

should treat an historical event, personage, or institution that is related to the history

Have Africa or African Americans and the Catholic community.

b) The manuscript format in all its parts should follow that prescribed in Kate

Turabian, A Manual for Writers of Term papers, Theses, and Dissertations. In

particular, the bibliography should distinguish between the primary sources

which are researched and those secondary sources utilized in historical

interpretation. The completed manuscript should contain maps, tables, and

appendices as dictated by the subject matter (e.g., a parish history might well

contain historical maps of the geographic area in which the parish was founded).

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3. Proposal Format (Plan B)

COVER SHEET

Titles; Subtitles;

Submitted in partial fulfillment

of requirements for the Th.M. Degree Program,

Institute for Black Catholic Studies, Xavier University, New Orleans, LA;

Student’s Name; Date submitted;

Blank line for date approved;

Blank line for signature of instructor.

RATIONALE Why research this person or event or institution? Why

important?

RESEARCH PLAN Statement of how you will go about your research:

archival, oral histories, etc.

RESOURCES Bibliography: distinguish between primary and secondary

sources

APPENDIX Photocopies of documents, maps, etc.

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C. SUGGESTED SCHEDULES FOR PRACTICUM PLANS A AND B The Qualifying Examination, ordinarily, is taken either in the third or fourth summer of

matriculation. The proposals for the Major Research Paper and for the Practicum Projects are

to be submitted to the Academic Advisor in the Fall following the successful completion of

the Qualifying Examination.

Here is the suggested schedule:

Summer Session after Qualifying Examination Preliminary discussion with Academic

Advisor and, as needed, with the Chair of the Practicum Administrator.

November Proposal ideas or tentative proposal discussions with Academic Advisor.

Selection of Practicum Advisor. Discussion of ideas with and/or submission of tentative to

Practicum

Advisor. Discussion, critiques, revision.

January Revised proposal is sent to the practicum Committee.

Fourth Summer (At the beginning of the fourth IBCS Summer Session) or following the

successful completion of the Qualifying Examination) students must submit the written

proposal for the Practicum, so that the Practicum Committee can review and grant final

approval of the proposal by the end of the summer session.

August- April Practicum Project [Plan A] begins. In consultation with

the Practicum Advisor, dates and travel arrangements for observance etc., are established.

May Faculty submits written report of Practicum Observance to Associate Director for the

Degree Program.

Summary Report prepared by the student should be sent to the Associate Degree Program.

The members of the Oral Comprehensive Committee are designated to receive their copies of

the pertinent material.

July Oral Comprehensive Examination (First weekend of July).

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D. PRACTICUM EVALUATION FORM AND GUIDELINES

(Practicum Observers are strongly encouraged to use this form in the evaluation of

Practicum-especially those following Plan A. It is provided here for the benefit of the

student).

Observers please complete this form and attach additional sheets as needed.

Student’s Name: ________________________________________________________

Title of Practicum: _______________________________________________________

Date/Place of Observation: _________________________________________________

Observer’s Evaluation Report:

The Practicum must demonstrate the following:

• an integration of course work and practical ministry

• the project must be used in a parish or classroom or other appropriate site in the African

American community

• enables the development of pastoral programs or stimulates further research that will make

a contribution to the lager African American community

• the Practicum Project is grounded in the Major Research Paper

• the Practicum Project fulfills the requirements set by the guidelines found in this Program

Book.

Signature of Practicum Observer ____________________________________________

Signature of Student _____________________________________________________

Date: _________________________________________________________________

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V. THE ORAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION

The Oral Comprehensive Examination, ordinarily, is scheduled for the second Saturday

of the summer session. The candidate will be examined by a panel of IBCS faculty who

either are specialist or competent and conversant in the candidate’s area. This panel is

appointed by the Associate Director of the Degree Program.

The purpose of the oral Comprehensive Examination is to provide a structured opportunity

for the students to demonstrate her or his integration of learning and insights from course

work, the Practicum Project, and the Major Research Paper. More broadly, the goal of the

examination is to allow the student to illustrate how the Practicum experience is related to the

educational work of IBCS. At the same time, the student must be prepared to demonstrate the

practical effect and benefits of the project for the larger Black community, and for other

ministries serving the Black community.

The student should bring to the Comprehensive Examination any summary materials

concerning the Practicum Project. These materials may include a text, a tape recording, a

videotape, a publication; a model, photographs, slides, etc. The demonstration the student

will make should last no more than fifteen (15) minutes. In addition, the student is expected

to present a formal evaluation of the Practicum Project and her or his particular role in the

Project.

The Oral Comprehensive Examination may be retaken.

Graduation follows successful completion of the Oral Comprehensive Examination.

THE DUTIES OF FACULTY PANEL Since the purpose of the Oral Comprehensive Examination is to provide the student with an

opportunity to demonstrate mastery and competence in the area of pastoral theology (whether

in a practical ministerial or research format, the IBCS faculty consider the Examination as a

most significant moment of passage).

1. The Faculty Panel will ask the student questions for information, clarification,

understanding and evaluation.

2. The Faculty Panel will evaluate and grade the student’s written reports and materials

regarding the Practicum Project as well as the student’s oral presentation and discussion.

3. If the Faculty panel decides that the student’s Practicum Project is not of sufficient quality,

the student can be asked to resubmit or to resubmit another Practicum Project.

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MASTER OF THEOLOGY DEGREE (Th. M.) CURRICULUM

Required Courses & Introductory Courses INTRODUCTORY COURSES: CREDIT HOURS (Required of all first year students)

IBTH 5000 Pro-seminar (Methodology) 1

IBTH 5010 Black Approaches to Theology 3

CORE COURSES:

IBTH 5020 History of Black Catholicism (3 Credit Hours Each)

IBTH 5030 Black Approaches to Scripture

IBTH 5060 Black Psychology

IBTH 5600 Moral Questions in the Black Community

OTHER REQUIRED COURSES: One Course from Aesthetics: Either IBTH 5425, 5430, or 5440

One Course from Systematics: Either IBTH 5081 or 5095

ELECTIVES (3 Credit Hours Each)

Area: Systematics, Moral and Historical Theology

Systematics IBTH 5081 Christology

IBTH 5095 Church: The Mission

IBTH 5100 African Black Liberation Theologies

IBTH 5115 African Theology

IBTH 5220 History of Black Spirituality

Area: History IBTH 5025 Black Saints

IBTH 5200 History of the Black Catholic Church: USA

IBTH 5210 History of Black Catholic Organizations/Movements

IBTH 5224 African Middle Ages

Area: Aesthetics IBTH 5425 Slave Narratives

IBTH 5430 Spirituality of Black Literature

IBTH 5440 The Spirituals

Area: Pastoral Theology IBTH 5050 Catechetics

IBTH 5063 Pastoral Counseling: A Black Perspective

IBTH 5070 Black preaching I

IBTH 5071 Black Preaching II

IBTH 5080 Black Approaches to Sacraments

IBTH 5120 Principles of Liturgy/Black Celebration

IBTH 5130 Black Religious Music

IBTH 5430 Black Spirituality

IBTH 5670 Spiritual Direction and Formation

IBTH 5669 Black Youth Ministry

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Area: Philosophy/Social Science/Education IBTH 5110 Black Philosophy

IBTH 5400 Religion and Culture

IBTH 5620 Urban Education in the Black Community

IBTH 5625 Catholic education in the Black Community

IBTH 5664 Leadership Styles in Ministry

IBTH 5665 Issues in the Black Family

ADVANCED COURSES Credit Hours Each IBTH 5997 Integrative Seminar 3

IBTH 5998 Directed Readings 3

IBTH 5999 Qualifying Examination 0

IBTH 6000 Practicum (Major Paper and Project) 6

IBTH 7000 Comprehensive Examination 0

Th. M. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (09rev)

IBTH 5000 Pro-Seminar: Methodology. This course introduces students to Black Catholic

Studies as a constituent component of African American Religious Studies. It presents the

methods of the disciplines that form the core of the degree curriculum and, in particular,

assists students to become familiar with pertinent theological issues, vocabulary, and

traditions.

Required for all new students.

IBTH 5010 Black Approaches to Theology. Stresses the nature, methods and sources of

Black Theology; the reasons justifying its existence and its relationship to other theologies

within the Roman Catholic Tradition. Required for all new students.

IBTH 5020 History of Black Catholicism. Explores the role played by Blacks in

Catholicism from the beginning of the Church, with special emphasis on the presence and

contributions of Blacks to Roman Catholicism in the United States. Core Course.

IBTH 5025 Black Saints. The history of the Church is full of many black / African Catholic

saints, who received recognition for great deeds or meritorious conduct. Many lost their lives

in defense of the faith. Many were also honored for their contributions to the Church and

their community. This course will review the live, spirituality and significance of these saints

within their historical context.

IBTH 5030 Black Approaches to Scripture. Black history, culture, and experience are

presented as a locus for responding to the Word of Scripture. Methods and tools of biblical

exegesis are introduced; similarities between biblical mentality and Black mentality, and

problem texts are also discussed. Core Course.

IBTH 5050 Catechetics. Discusses particular problems and approaches for catechetics in the

Black community. Core Course.

IBTH 5060 Black Psychology. Constructs effective pastoral communication with Black

congregations by review of major interpersonal, social, and systematic issues from a

perspective based upon sound analysis stemming from recognition of cultural differences.

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Core Courses.

IBTH 5063 Pastoral Counseling. This course will explore a variety of counseling theories

and methods as these are correlate to and strengthen the client’s spiritual journey, religious

beliefs and faith community.

IBTH 5070/5071 Preaching I, II. These are courses in Black preaching traditions that

include both a survey of the sermonic literature and practical exercises in preaching oriented

toward a Black congregation.

IBTH 5080 Black Approach to Sacraments. Introduces ritual and symbol in the African

and African American traditions and their relationship to the seven Sacraments of the Roman

Catholic Church.

IBTH 5081 Christology. Studies the Kingdom of God as announced in the teaching, healing

ministry, passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, particularly as these are understood

from the perspective of liberation and black theologies. Area Requirement.

IBTH5090 Church: The Mission. Explores the nature and mission of the Church in

contemporary Society with particular emphasis of its significance the evangelization and

social justice ministries within and on behalf of the Black Community. Area Requirement.

IBTH 5100 African, Black and Liberation Theologies. This is a comparative study of the

major issues of global theologies as these influence and are influenced by political,

sociological, cultural and gender conflicts in various societies.

IBTH 5110 Black Philosophy. Discusses the African and African American outlook on

reality; similarities and differences of this analysis from the philosophies of the West.

Implications for understanding and articulating Black religious experiences are also treated.

IBTH 5115 African Theology. African theology is that theology which reflects on the

gospel, the Christian tradition, and the total African reality from the perspectives of the

African worldview. This course will explore the history and major themes of African

Theology.

IBTH 5120 Principles of Liturgy/Black Celebration. This course surveys the history and

principles of “African,” “Black Church,” and “Roman Catholic” liturgical celebrations.

IBTH 5200 History of the Black Catholic Church: USA. This course reviews the history of

the contributions and challenges of Black Catholics to the Catholic Church from its origins in

Africa to its contemporary manifestations in the United States.

IBTH 5210 History of Black Religious Movements. Studies Blacks in the Christian

Churches from the 17th century to the present; the independent Black church; Blacks and the

Catholic Church; the Black Church come of age.

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IBTH 5220 History of Black Spirituality. This course is a historical, anthropological,

phenomenological, and theological study of the evolution of the core elements of the African

American religious experience, with emphasis on the retention of Africanisms.

IBTH 5224 African Middle Age. The history course will explore the history of Africa from

642- 1500. Focus will be on the role of Africa in the later Roman Empire (303-642); the

subsequent Arab Conquest(642-1500 and the emergence of the West African Empires,

Eastern African and Southern traditional societies until the arrival of the Portuguese in the

15th Century.

IBTH 5400 Religion and Culture. This interdisciplinary course (sociology, anthropology

and religion) will explore the way African and African American cultures [manner of using

things, of laboring, of expressing oneself, of forming customs, of establishing laws and

juridical institutions of cultivating the sciences, the arts and beauty] influence Religious

belief and customs and how American Religious belief and customs influence contemporary

African and African American culture.

IBTH 5425 Slave Narratives. The course begins with the earliest documents, tracing most

especially the themes of transcendence, self-determination and cultural transmissions outside

the ordinary avenues of traditional culture. From the classic slave narratives to the more

recent manifestations of African American imaginative work, there is an unbroken thread of

cultural awareness and human dignity that serves as the guide to understanding African

American culture and religious sensibilities. Area Requirement.

IBTH 5430 Spirituality of Black Literature. Uses selected works of African American

literature as a resource for the study of the spirituality of a people. It attempts to understand

and articulate the spirituality expressed in the words, songs, prayers, relationships, and daily

lives of Black people, as they are found in imaginative works. Area Requirement.

IBTH 5430 Black Spirituality: Black spirituality is rooted in the history and experience of

African American peoples in the United States. This course will engage students in a critical

examination of the roots, development and characteristics of the spirituality of Black peoples

in the United States as well as a participative experience of Black spirituality as found in the

religious expression of the community.

IBTH 5440 The Spirituals. Studies a broad range of the black sacred songs known as the

“Spirituals.” Focus is placed upon a study of their origins, meanings, and purposes. Emphasis

is also given to understanding their importance in the foundation of African American culture

and Christianity; and their possible uses in Catholic worship, and pastoral ministry. Area

Requirement.

IBTH 5445 Black Religious Music. Surveys the history and development of aesthetic

expression of African Americans in music; emphasizes slave moans, chants; the Spirituals;

blues; classic gospel; and contemporary gospel.

IBTH 5600 Moral Questions in the Black Community. This course intends to establish a

dialogue (a mutual critique and enrichment) between African American and Roman Catholic

approaches to ethical issues, focusing on matters of particular concern to African Americans.

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IBTH 5620 Urban Education in the Black Community. This course explores the cultural,

historical, socioeconomic, and political factors that influence urban education as foundational

to developing effective instructional and organizational practices for urban schools.

Participants will focus on the processes and values necessary for the development of a

partnership between school, church, and community necessary for the emergence of a

positive school culture that is essential to close the achievement gap of urban children.

IBTH 5625 Catholic Education in the Black Community. This course looks at learning

styles among Black children and provides methodologies for a culturally inclusive

curriculum.

IBTH 5640 Leadership Styles of Ministry. Explores ministry in the Black community,

including similarities and differences with the white community, especially regarding issues

of congregational responsibility, participation and leadership.

IBTH 5660 Issues in Black Family. This course investigates the myths, realities, facts,

strengths and weaknesses of the African American community in a way that will assist those

who minister in the Black community. Various structures and forms of African American

family life are studied to learn how these forms affect ministry in the community and in the

church.

IBTH 5669 Black Youth Ministry- Using the U.S. Catholic Bishops Pastoral Renewing the

Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry and other interdisciplinary resources will

explore ways “to empower [black youth] to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world

today…; to draw [black youth] to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of

the Catholic faith community…” and “to foster the total personal and spiritual growth of each

[black youth].” (adaptation of RTV 9, 11 and 15).

IBTH 5670 Spiritual Direction and Formation in The Black Community This course

will explore the unique characters of Christian spiritual and faith formation specifically

addressing issues of culture, family, personal and communal history, social location and

discipleship in the context of the Black community.

DESCRIPTIONS OF ADVANCED COURSES IBTH 5997 Integrative Colloquium. Helps students in the third or fourth summer of study

to enter more deeply into the habitués of pastoral theology, that is, a way of thinking,

reflecting, conversing, and writing about questions and issues that emerge from their ministry

and ministerial research. The Colloquium provides students with structured and

interdisciplinary engagement and opportunities for refining research, theological analysis and

reflection, and writing. Specifically, the Colloquium assists students to meet the goal of

preparing successful drafts of (a) the major theological research paper and (b) the Practicum

proposal.

IBTH 5998 Directed Readings. This advanced course in theology provides students with the

structured opportunity for supervised reading, research, and writing in selected scholarly

areas that comprise the curriculum of the IBCS.

IBTH 5999 Qualifying Examination.

IBTH 6000 Practicum (Major Research Paper and Project).

IBTH 7000 Comprehensive.

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ADDITIONAL COURSES APPROVED BY THE UNIVERSITY In addition to those listed above, Xavier University of Louisiana has approved the following

courses that may be taught as student need and faculty availability dictate:

IBTH 5065 Pastoral Self-Psychology

IBTH 5111 African Philosophical Theology

IBTH 5410 Seminar: Black Literature and Religion

IBTH 5420 Seminar: Black Literary Criticism

IBTH 5450 Liturgical Planning and Development

IBTH 5610 Socio-Theology

IBTH 5625 Issues: White Minister /Black Church

IBTH 5650 Urban / Rural Ministry

IBTH 5669 African American Youth Ministry

IBTH 5670 Spiritual Direction / Formation

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XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA

ADMINISTRATION STAFF

C. Reynold Verret, Ph.D.

President

Deidre D. Labat, Ph.D.

Interim Senior Vice President and Provost for Academic Affairs

Ralph Johnson, CPA

Sr. Vice President for Finance and Administration

Gia Soublet, B.S.

Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Anil Kukreja, Ph.D

Dean of the College of Arts and Science

THE SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS The Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs is the chief academic officer, and as such shall be

responsible for implementing academic policy and coordinating academic programs and

activities. The Senior Vice President reports to the President. Reporting to the Senior Vice

President, Academic Affairs are: the Associate Vice President, Academic Affairs; Assistant Vice

President, Scholarship Coordinator; the Dean of Arts and Sciences; the Dean of the College of

Pharmacy; the Dean of Freshmen Studies; the Dean of Admissions; the Director of the Institute

for Black Catholic Studies, the Director of the Center for the Advancement of Teaching; the

Director of the Center for Undergraduate Research; the Registrar; the Director of the Center

for International and Intercultural Programs; and the University Librarian. It is the duty of the

Senior Vice President to search for and to implement ways to affect a favorable climate for

learning at the University. He/She shall encourage and promote good teaching and

scholarship by the faculty and encourage good scholarship by the students. He/she shall

administer the curriculum, advise on the hiring of new faculty, who may be offered

employment by the Office of the President, and advise on release of non-tenured faculty,

whose employment may be terminated by the Office of the President. In the absence of the

President, the Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs is the ranking officer of the

University.

DEAN OF COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES The Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences is the administrative officer in charge of the

graduate division and is directly accountable to the Senior Vice President of Academic

Affairs. The Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences or her/his designee oversees the

development of all programs of studies for the students who will fulfill requirements for the

Master degrees. The Dean or her/his designee coordinates the procedures for admission to

graduate study and advancement to candidacy for the Master degree via the Graduate

Council.

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INSTITUTE FOR BLACK CATHOLIC STUDIES

ADMINISTRATION

Rev. Dr. Maurice J. Nutt, C.Ss.R.

Director

Kirk P. Gaddy, Ed.D.

Associate Director, Master of Theology Degree Program

Sr. Eva Marie Lumas, SSS

Associate Director, Certificate and Enrichment Programs

Gwendolyn Young

Coordinator of Community Life

THE DIRECTOR OF THE INSTITUTE FOR BLACK CATHOLIC STUDIES The director of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies is the chief executive officer who is

responsible for the oversight and development of the Institute in collaboration with the

Associate Directors, the Vice President of Academic Affairs and the Dean of the College of

Arts and Sciences via the Graduate Council. The Director of the Institute is accountable to

the Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs for the Institute’s adherence to the rules and

regulations of Xavier University of Louisiana. The Director follows the guidelines for

accreditation established by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of

Colleges and Schools. The Director has ultimate responsibility for the on-going development

of the Institute faculty and programs as well as for the on-going activities related to fund-

raising, development and public relations.

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR THE MASTER OF THEOLOGY PROGRAM The Associate Director of the Master of Theology Program is the principle administrator of

the degree program. The Associate Director works in a collegial manner with the Director,

other Associates and Program Coordinators to guarantee the overall effective management of

the Institute programs.

Xavier’s Institute for Black Catholic Studies Office Staff

Mrs. Loretta DeVille-Salomon, Administrative Assistant (and)

Assistant to the Masters and C & E Programs

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DEGREE FACULTY

Each year, Xavier University and the Institute for Black Catholic Studies gather a community of

scholars – African and African American Catholics of varied disciplines and others in the

academy – to collectively and individually reflect on Black experience, deepen Black scholarship,

and promote the mission of the church in the Black community.

The degree faculty of the institute for Black Catholic Studies represents many academic

disciplines. The depth of scholarship, publications, service and research of the entire IBCS

Graduate faculty is evidenced in the excitement that they bring to their classes and the academic

community. Scholars in pastoral ministry, African American Studies and theology are also invited

as special lecturers to instruct and inform the Institutes’ teaching-learning community on issues of

importance for the Black Community. The Institute has a cadre of scholars who demonstrate

academic competence and teaching effectiveness in many diverse and interdisciplinary fields of

study and who assist students in achieving their academic, professional and personal goals.

The Graduate program can boast of having had a senior faculty of six of the leading African and

African American Catholic theological and historical scholars in the country: Fr. Cyprian Davis,

OSB, D. Hist. Sci; Ms. M Shawn Copeland, Ph.D.; Fr. Dr. Bryan Massingale, Ph.D.; Sr.

Jamie T. Phelps, O.P. Ph.D.; and Fr. James Chukwuma Okoye, CSSp; D. Phil. Rev. Cheryl

Kirk-Duggan, Ph.D. an ordained protestant minister augments the senior faculty with her multi-

disciplinary expertise (religion, music, and writing) and ecumenical perspective. (Currently only

Fr. Cyprian Davis and Sr. Jamie T. Phelps remain on the senior faculty) These senior professors

are nationally and internationally known for their scholarship, publications, leadership and

presentations at professional conferences and symposiums and are in great demand as lecturers

and resource persons not only by students of the Institute but by national and international

Catholic and ecumenical theological and church-related organizations interested in the theological

thoughts of Black Catholics in the United States and the role of Black Catholics in church and

society. Their students (cited below) and the emerging junior faculty is rapidly gaining national

reputations for the quality of the research, writing, teaching or effectiveness as pastoral ministry

practitioners and/or educators. New members of the degree faculty since 2006 includes Dr.

Estella Conwill Majozo, Dr. Cecilia A. Moore, Fr. Dr. Charles Payne,OFM, Fr. Dr.

Maurice Nutt , C.Ss.R., Dr. Freddy Washington,CSSp, Dr. Kathleen Dorsey Bellow, Dr.

Albertina Walker , and Dr. C. Vanessa White. We have been blessed with continental

African Scholars and Afro-Canadian and Afro Caribbean scholars who have joined the degree

faculty from time to time as adjunct members among these are Dr. (Christopher) Nwaka

Egbulem, Fr. Dr. Paulinus Odozor, CSSp, Fr. Dr. Victor Darlington, Dr. Elochukwu

Uzukwu, CSSp, Sr. Dr. Caroline Mbonu all originally from Nigeria, Dr. Enrico Joseph from

Canada and Dr. Anna Perkins from Jamaica.

INDICATIONS OF THE INSTITUTE’S EFFECTIVENESS -The primary success of the

Institute faculty is evidenced by the growth of authentic acculturated liturgy and religious

education programs within Catholic Parishes throughout the United States.

A secondary but equally impressive indicator of the Institute’s success is the increase of Black Catholic

scholars holding Ph.D.’s in theology and related fields who have been mentored by IBCS faculty as

students and alumni. These include Sr. Shawnee Daniel-Sykes, SSND, Ph.D. in Religious Studies (Moral

Theology); Ms. Cecilia Moore, Ph.D. in Religious Studies (Church History); Fr. Freddy Washington,

CSSp., D. Min. in Pastoral Theology; Dr. Kathleen Dorsey Bellow, D. Min. in Liturgical Studies; Sr.

Eva Regina Martin, Ph.D., in African American Studies; Sr. Addie Lorraine Walker, SSND, Ph.D. in

Religion and Education; Sr. Dr. Eva Lumas, SSS., Ph.D., in Faith and Culture, Sr. Barbara Spears,

SSND, Ed.D. , Fr. Maurice Nutt, CSsR, D.Min. In Preaching; Sr. Dr. LaReine–Marie Mosely, SND.,

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Ph.D. in Systematic Theology. Fr. Dr. Donald Chambers, STD in Theology; Fr. Derran Combs, OFM

in Religion and Religious Education. All except two of these alumnae have served on the Institute’s Degree

or Continuing Education faculty.

Xavier University of Louisiana Administration

Dr. C. Reynold Verret, President

Dr. Deidre D. Labat, Interim Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Anil Kukreja, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences

Xavier University’s Institute for Black Catholic Studies Administrative Team

Rev. Dr. Maurice J. Nutt, C.Ss.R., Director

Dr. Kirk P. Gaddy, Associate Director for the Master Degree Program

Sr. Eva Marie Lumas, SSS, Associate Director for the C and E Program

Office Staff

Mrs. Loretta DeVille-Salomon, IBCS Administrative Assistant

Master Degree Program Assistant (and) Assistant to the Continuing Education Program (C&E)

Community Life Staff

Mrs. Gwendolyn Young, Coordinator, (Major Celebrations and Morning Prayers)

Deacon Lawrence C. Houston, Community Life Assistant

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The Master Degree Faculty

Summer 2016

Dr. Kirk P. Gaddy

Associate Director: Th.M. in Pastoral Theology

Ed. D. Nova Southeastern University

Dr. Kathleen Dorsey Bellow

D.Min. – Liturgical Studies from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, Illinois

Dr. J. Derran Combs, O.F.M.

Ph.D. Fordham University – Quincy, IL

Professor of Theology – Quincy University

Dr. Modeste Malu-Nyimi

Professor of Black Theology and introduction to Theological Research

Ph.D. Radbouw University (Catholic University of Nijmegan) Netherlands

Dr. Leonard McKinnis Ph.D. Loyola University of Chicago - Systematic Theology

Assistant Professor – Saint Louis University

Dr. Gilberto A. Ruiz

Ph.D., Emory University; M.T.S., Harvard Divinity School

Assistant Professor in the Loyola Institute for Ministry Teaches LIM’sScripture courses, Jewish

Roots of Christian Faith and Christian Origins.

http://www.linkedin.com/edu/fos?id=100854&trk=prof-edu-field_of_study

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AUXILIARY COMMITTEES

Policy Committee

The Policy Committees of the Degree Program is responsible for the general oversight

of the respective IBCS Graduate Degree Program and assist with the overall

development of the Institute. The Degree Program Policy Committee consists of the

Director of the IBCS, the Associate Director for the Degree Program, faculty and

student representatives, and the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (Graduate

Division).

Advisory Council

The Advisory Council assists the Director and the Policy Committee in representing the

Institute to the larger Black community, serves as liaison with respective organizations,

and offers advice and counsel on matters such as fundraising, student and faculty

recruitment, and the development of new programs.

Xavier University ACCREDITATION

Xavier University of Louisiana is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern

Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelors, masters, and doctorate degrees.

Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097

or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Xavier University of Louisiana.

Communications regarding admission to the Master of Theology Graduate Degree Program

should be addressed to the following:

Institute for Black Catholic Studies


1 Drexel Drive-Box 49

New Orleans, LA 70125

For direct contact call or e-mail: 504-520-5138 Director of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies

Ph. 504-520-7691 Administrative Assistant

Email: [email protected]

www. xula.edu/IBCS

xavier university of louisiana - ibcsxula.com university of louisiana * the institute for black...

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