The Deaf Catholic Ministry Formation Programs (DCMFP) provide comprehensive, accessible theological education and practical pastoral training to empower leaders across the United States.
Faith, Service and Leadership:
Shaping Tomorrow’s Ministry in the Catholic Deaf Community
A Mission to Empower and Lead
Every growing community deserves leaders who inspire with confidence and deep faith. At DCMFP , we bridge the gap between theological foundation and active community service. Our program is dedicated to forming individuals who are fully prepared to guide, support, and transform lives wherever they are called to serve.
Program Pillars
How the Program Shapes Leaders
Theological Depth
Develop a solid, mature understanding of scripture, faith, and doctrine through structured courses.
Pastoral Practicality
Gain real-world, actionable skills to lead community initiatives, counsel, and organize ministry work.
National Network
Connect with a vibrant, supportive ecosystem of ministerial leaders impacting communities across the country.
Classes are taught fully in ASL through an accessible online format, combined with one mandatory, inspiring community retreat weekend in Chicago each summer.
Requirements & Costs
Tuition breakdown:
Year 1: $750 USD (includes application fee)
Year 2: $700 USD
Year 3: $500 USD.
Active involvement in a Catholic Church community.
A letter of recommendation from a local Priest, Pastoral Worker, or Diocesan Official.
Commitment to have both a Spiritual Director and a local community mentor.
Religious Education Workshop for the Deaf Community
A dynamic virtual workshop series created to inspire and equip catechists, educators, and leaders in Deaf ministry.
Format: Live via Zoom | Language: Exclusively in ASL | Time: Thursday Evenings 7:30 – 9:00 PM (EST)
Faith Formation and Prayer
Date: September 10
Speakers: Courtney Gunville & Sr. Bonnie McMenamin, SSJ
Diverse Learning Needs in the Deaf Community
Date: November 5
Speaker: Maryann Barth
Adapting Religious Education Materials
Date: January 7
Speaker: Sr. BarbaraAnn Sgro, OP
Sacramental Prep: Deaf Children & Teens
Date: March 4
Speaker: Sr. Kathleen Schipani, IHM
OCIA and the Deaf Community
Date: May 6
Speaker: Laureen Lynch-Ryan
Catechist Roundtable: Insights & Techniques
Date: June 2
Panelists: Stephen & Anne Eubanks, Donna Mattini
Moderator: Ian Robertson
Pricing Copy: $200 USD - Full Series
(All 6 Sessions)
$40 USD – Per Individual Workshop (subject to availability)
Our Community in action
Watch original insights, testimonies, and visual journeys brought to life.
Fuel the Future of Leadership
Your financial support directly funds scholarships, learning materials, and resources for upcoming leaders who will serve communities all over the nation. Invest in a legacy of faith and impact.
Donate via Zelle®
Instant bank-to-bank transfer with zero processing fees.
Email: mfpdirectorchicago@gmail.com
Recipient: Deaf Catholic Ministry Formation Programs (DCMFP)
*Log in to your banking app or Zelle®, select "Send Money", and enter the email above.
Mail a check
Traditional donation by personal, parish, or corporate check.
Payable to: MFP
Mailing Address: 1120 NW 194th Avenue
Pembroke Pines, FL 33029
*Please include your email address in the memo if you would like a digital donation receipt.
Take Your Next Step in Ministry
Ready to take your next step?
Applications for the 2026-2027 term are officially open. The absolute deadline to submit your forms and letters is August 1, 2026. Fill out the fields below, and our director, Dr. Ian Robertson, will contact you for an online interview.
Get in touch
A lay ministry training for Catholic Deaf Adults
Contact
Sister Rita Wigginton, OSU
Sponsored by
Archdiocese of Chicago, IL
National Catholic Office of the Deaf
International Catholic Deaf
Association - USA