Training

Our 14-week Orientation programs are held from September - December each year. 

Candidates  stay at the Comboni Mission Center in LaGrange Park, Illinois, for the duration of the 14 weeks. All meals and lodging are provided.

The objective of our training is to prepare people for beginning overseas mission life and work as a Comboni Lay Missionary. It also serves as the final phase of discernment on the part of the Comboni Lay Missionary Program and the candidates. The contract to begin serving as a lay missionary is signed at the end of training in December during a special Commissioning Ceremony.

Program staff and knowledgeable resource people give classes in Theology, Scripture, and workshops on Cross-Cultural Living, Communication Skills, Conflict Resolution, Mission Spirituality, the Comboni Charism, Relationships and Intimacy Overseas, Staying Healthy Overseas, etc.  In most instances, the candidates will take a mission theology-related course at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.

Time is set aside each week for studying the area of assignment and communicating with the pastoral team overseas.

There are also regular community activities such as morning prayers, mass, weekly reflection group meetings, community evenings, and a retreat.

Upon successful completion of the Orientation Program, candidates sign a 3-year contract and become members of the Comboni Lay Mission Program.