Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Commitment to Christian education and formation for adults is an integral part of our vision to establish faith-filled families and parishes. The Church needs well-trained lay people to join with the clergy in serving the people of God. As Pope John Paul II says in Ecclesia in America, these lay works "should be undertaken only by men and women who have received the necessary training in accordance with clearly defined criteria: a stable presence, a real readiness to serve a determined group of persons, and the duty of accountability to their Pastor" (166).

With this letter, I wish to commend to you the program of ministry formation offered by Kino Institute. The curriculum, content and material presented in this program will provide the foundation for a comprehensive overview of our Catholic faith tradition. I am confident that you will join me in supporting Kino Institute as the primary formational experience for lay leadership in our Diocese.

Kino Institute has served the Diocese of Phoenix for over 30 years as the primary educator of lay leaders and diaconate candidates. I invite you to discern if Christ, through the grace of your baptism, is calling you to a deeper understanding of your faith through theological study and possibly to formation for pastoral service within His Church.

With gratitude and best wishes, I remain

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+Thomas J. Olmsted
Bishop of Phoenix