The Hispanic Catholic community is the fastest growing segment of the U.S. Catholic church. This is especially true in Chicago where more than one third of the 2.3 million Catholics are Hispanic/Latino. Jointly sponsored with the Archdiocese of Chicago, the Oscar Romero Scholars Program prepares Hispanic/Latino lay people for professional ministry by providing financial support as they earn a graduate degree. Scholars commit to work in the Archdiocese of Chicago for a minimum of three years after graduation.

With formation as an integral part of the program, Romero Scholars prepare for ministry through either the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies or Master of Divinity degree programs. Monthly formational and theological reflection sessions, annual retreats, and special workshops help the Romero Scholars develop and deepen a vision of ministry rooted in the Gospel—one which is practical, culturally sensitive, and personally enriching.

Learn more in the Romero Scholars program section.