Established as the Center for Pastoral Studies in 1977, the LMU Center for Religion and Spirituality is one of the University's interdisciplinary centers and an embodiment of its commitment to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, neighboring dioceses, and communities of faith throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
The purpose of the Center is to provide educational opportunities for adult learners that strengthen their religious and spiritual formation as ministers, educators, and leaders committed to the service of faith and the promotion of justice in their own communities.
The Center carries out this purpose in three ways: bilingual (English and Spanish) continuing education in theology, ministry and spirituality with an emphasis in pastoral leadership; research in pastoral theology with an emphasis in intercultural and interreligious dynamics; and institutional outreach to local parishes, religious institutions and faith-based organizations.
Our Values
Spirituality
True learning takes root in the rich soil of our spiritual lives. Our courses are designed to expose students to the rich Christian spiritual tradition and contemplative practices so that through reflection, discussion, and practice they can grow into an ever-deepening awareness of the presence of God in their daily lives.
Scripture
Scripture is the living Word of God. The contemplative tradition speaks of Scripture as bread – meant to be tasted, savored, so that we are nourished. In our courses, students are invited not only to study Scripture but to be shaped by it – to wrestle with it, to be guided by it, and to let it speak powerfully into the present moment.
Community
We are not meant to walk alone. From the early church to today, the Christian life is rooted in love, kinship, mutual care, and shared revelation. Our learning spaces seek to reflect that call – by inviting participants to learn from one another and from those who came before us.
Call to Action
Theological reflection that does not bear the fruit of love is hollow. Our courses support students in discerning how they are being called – personally and courageously – to respond with mercy, justice and compassion towards themselves, one another, the world and creation.
Faculty and Fellows
Meet the women and men who teach, develop, and direct our professional programs at the Center. Visit site »
Staff
Meet the members of the CRS team.
Elsy Arévalo
Director
Tyler Flynn
Assistant Director
Rosa Calderón
Administrative Specialist
Delmy Ruíz
Program Associate