Experts in Humanity Project

The St. Augustine’s Seminary Institute of Theology Introduces a human formation initiative for leaders in the Church

COMING SOON 2027/28

“We need heralds of the Gospel who are experts in humanity, who know the depths of the human heart, who can share the joys and hopes, the agonies and distress of people today, but at the same time contemplatives who have fallen in love with God.” - Pope Saint John Paul II

St. Augustine’s Seminary of Toronto proposes to strengthen and sustain its institutional capacity to prepare and support pastoral leaders by launching the Human and Spiritual Formation Program for Lay Leaders. Building on the Seminary’s proven integral formation model for seminarians, this initiative will offer lay students and ecclesial partners a comprehensive program focused on increased self-awareness, relational and virtuous leadership, emotional maturity, and deepened spiritual formation. The integral formation of lay leaders and ordination-track students—including the intellectual, pastoral, spiritual, and human dimensions—is affirmed in official Catholic teaching on the formation of future ministers, such as the Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis (2016), and in the Association of Theological Schools’ Standards of Accreditation (2020, Standard 3.1).

Drawing on the Seminary’s human formation curriculum for seminarians and shaped by recent consultations with students, alumni, and lay leaders, the new program will feature professionally produced video modules, retreats, spiritual direction, and in-person gatherings. Modules will be accessible via a new website and app, supporting flexible, hybrid delivery and expanding the Seminary’s reach beyond traditional classroom settings.

“This program aligns closely with our mission to serve the Church by fostering holistic growth in faith, character, and leadership among all members of the Body of Christ—not only ordained ministers but also the laity, whose active participation is essential to the life and mission of the Church. Through structured formation, spiritual guidance, and practical tools for discernment and service, this program will equip lay participants to live out their vocations more deeply and effectively in their families, parishes, and communities.” - Cardinal Leo