Diocese of Joliet

Leaders for the Future
Guidelines Regarding Qualifications for Eligibility
for the Loan Program

An interest-free Loan Program of the Catholic Education Foundation Supporting Graduate Study to develop future ministry leaders in the
Diocese of Joliet.

LEADERS FOR THE FUTURE recognizes the importance of supporting lay leaders engaged in graduate study for ministry. Through LEADERS FOR THE FUTURE interest free loans over a three-year period are offered. For the 2008-09 year, a graduated loan amount will be available as follows:

The applicant must have completed at least one full year of employment with the diocese, parish, or Catholic elementary or secondary school, in a professional position. Preference will be given to full time employees. Half time employees will be considered if space is open.
First priority will be given to parish catechetical leaders (Principal/Assistant Principal, Directors/Coordinators of Religious Education, Directors/Coordinators of Youth Ministry and Directors/Coordinators of Adult Faith Formation) pursuing a Masters Degree in Divinity, Pastoral Studies, Religious Education, Theology, etc. Teachers pursuing a “Type 75” Principal Certificate will also receive primary consideration.
Second priority will be given to teachers pursuing a ministerial degree, such as one of those listed above, administrative certificates, such as curriculum coordinators, with preference in the subjects of science, math, and bilingual education and special education, music, and liturgy.
Third priority will be given to employees working in areas other than Catholic Schools or Religious Education.
In general, funding will not be available for teachers not fulfilling the above stated criteria.
Funding will not be granted to those pursuing a doctorate degree.

Applications must include a statement of support from the employee’s supervisor, with an explanation of the leadership benefits that the ministry will receive from the employee when the Masters Degree program is completed.

LOAN REPAYMENT: For each year of services offered in the Diocese of Joliet at completion of the graduate degree, the corresponding loan amount will be reduced. A lay minister who borrows for three years, completes a degree, and serves for three years in the Diocese of Joliet would be free of any obligation.

Two different applications are available. New candidates should complete the application for 1st year applicants; returning candidates should complete the application for 2nd and 3rd year applicants.
Loan Agreement form also needs to be completed by all candidates.

Loan Agreement pdf format

Completed applications are due on June 1, 2008. No exceptions will be made. Applications should be mailed to:

Jane Lagger, Director
Catholic Education Foundation
402 South Independence Blvd.
Romeoville, Il 60446

In light of criteria stated, loan funding may be offered.
Please note that application and granting does not extend beyond the stated one-year period. Applications are required and reviewed on an annual basis by the Awards Committee of the Catholic Education Foundation. Funding is limited and all applicants may not be accepted.