Thirty-three new participants are joining the 100 others currently participating in the diocesan Lay Ministry Program.

At an orientation session held Sept. 10 at St. Edmund Prep, Sheepshead Bay, the School of Evangelization’s Pastoral Institute welcomed them as they begin their formal training to serve as lay pastoral leaders for their parishes.

Gerald Tortorella, director of the Pastoral Institute, and Nelsa Elías, the facilitator for participants, faculty and curriculum for the School of Evangelization, told the new students that the journey they were beginning will lead them to greater understanding of their faith, a deeper knowledge and love of the Lord Jesus and more fruitful service in their parish communities.

Theodore Musco, executive director of the School of Evangelization, also greeted participants and encouraged them to take advantage of the many opportunities that are offered by the School of Evangelization. He also spoke to participants about their importance to the life of their parishes and the key roles they play in evangelizing others.

Auxiliary Bishop James Massa, moderator of the Curia, spoke during the prayer service that marked the start of the orientation. Using the example of St. Teresa of Calcutta, he told the gathering that they needed to be both active and contemplative. They need to study and pray so that they will be better able to serve others.

More than 950 men and women have completed the program of intellectual, spiritual, human and pastoral formation preparing them for service in their parishes. Classes are held in English and Spanish at different sites across the diocese.

For further information, contact Gerald J. Tortorella at 718-281-9556, or gtortorella@diobrook.org.