Kino graduates 41 students

By J.D. Long-García
The Catholic Sun

After graduating from Kino Institute’s two-year program in theological and pastoral studies, 41 students will now use what they learned to serve the Phoenix Diocese.

“It is essential for the Church to bring the Gospel to all so that all may find salvation,” said Fr. David Sanfilippo, vicar general, who presided at the June 10 graduation Mass at St. Mary’s Basilica.

“After graduating, students will participate more fully in the Church’s mission,” he said.

Barry Sargent, the director of the Kino Institute, said graduates would help lead “all members of our community deeply into the love of Jesus Christ.”

“These two years have been a preparation for your work in the Lord’s vineyard,” Sargent said, referencing the recent U.S. bishops’ document on the laity titled “Coworkers in the Vineyard of the Lord.”

In the Kino program, students form a learning community of 20 to 30 people called a cohort. While the model had already been in place in the Spanish-language program, this year marks the first graduating cohort class in English.

“It’s exceeded my expectations,” Sargent said. “They are becoming a base of Christian disciples, wanting to learn and work and pray together.”

Kino students take classes in theology, Scripture, morality and spirituality. The program gives students a comprehensive view of the Catholic theological tradition and serves as a base for ministry.

Sr. Maria Celia Molina, SNDdeN, who heads up the Spanish-language program, recognized the struggles her students faced.

“When you’re married and have children, things happen. For you to stay focused and come to class is no small feat,” she said. “They were tenacious. They persevered and stayed with the vision.”

For more on the Kino Institute, visit www.diocesephoenix.org/kino.