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About The Institute for Church Life
The Institute for Church Life (ICL) of the University of Notre Dame exists as an integral component of the University's larger mission of teaching, research, and service to society and to the Church. Through its resources, projects, and affiliate centers the Institute reaches out to the whole spectrum of Church leaders--its bishops, clergy, religious, and laity--to provide training and service as well as opportunities for spiritual rejuvenation and personal growth.
In this work, the Institute seeks to embody the spirit and mandate of the Second Vatican Council, to implement a mission of transforming the Church and society in light of the Gospel, and to renew the theological, ministerial, pastoral, catechetical, and liturgical traditions of the Church. The Institute's efforts are realized through the Satellite Theological Education Program (STEP), the Center for Catechetical Initiatives (CCI) and ND Vision; and in collaboration with the Notre Dame Center for Liturgy, the Center for Social Concerns, and the academic departments and schools of the University of Notre Dame, especially the Department of Theology.
For more than 25 years, ICL has provided distinguished leadership through its publications, training sessions, service to episcopal and national organizations, involvement in social concerns, research, and educational programs. Guided by its Executive Committee, ICL is expanding its programs and initiatives for the special needs of a Church at the beginning of the new millennium.
As a bridge between the University and the Church, ICL links programs and personnel on campus with Church leaders, University graduates, and others who are concerned with the development of vital communities of faith. Further, with the assistance of the Advisory Council, ICL hopes to serve as a catalyst for cooperation among a variety of entities within the University and within the Church.
The Institute is additionally challenged by staying conversant with the major currents of research on the Church and for inititating appropriate new research to enable the responsible development of the Church's intellectual and pastoral life.