Emmaus Formation for Ministry Program

Emmaus integrates academic and personal experiences with the students’ religious traditions, while at the same time providing a support system for students as they  balance studies, family, work, and ministry.

The Emmaus program draws inspiration from the remarkable post-resurrection journey of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke’s gospel (Lk. 24:13-35). The Emmaus Program journeys with students during their degree program at CTU and assists them in discovering and reflecting on the presence of Christ in their midst. Students’ human and spiritual formation is deepened through retreats and theological reflection groups. Fundamental themes and topics of Christian Spirituality and formation are incorporated into the Theological Reflection Groups and Retreats in a continuing three-year cycle exploring relationships with Self, God, Others and Creation.

Maryellen Knuth, MAPS is the Assistant Dean for Student Life and Formation and serves as Director of the Emmaus Formation for Ministry program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She is a graduate of Catholic Theological Union (2005) with a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies with concentrations in Spirituality and Cross Cultural ministry, and holds a certificate in Spiritual Direction from the Claret Center. Maryellen has worked extensively in parish ministry and leads experiential retreats and workshops. She is the mother of 5 adult children, and lives with her husband, Marty, in the suburb of Bartlett.