English Programs

ELP (English Language Program)

The central responsibility of the priest is service to the word of God.  For this reason, effective communication is an aptitude and skill essential to the effective realization of ordained ministry.  Over the last several years, the men coming to St. Patrick’s for formation are increasingly from ethnically and linguistically diverse backgrounds.  As such, the seminary is committed to providing them with the requisite proficiency the church expects and the people of God deserve for those charged with the ministry of proclamation.

English Language Program (ELP)

Candidates for the priesthood reflect the rich diversity of languages and cultures found in the United States.  In order to assist those whose first language is not English, and also students who would like to improve their skills, St. Patrick’s offers classes in Reading, Writing/Composition, Research Skills, Critical Thinking, Grammar, Pronunciation, and Public Speaking.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

This program is provided for those students who require foundational skills and knowledge in English prior to their full entry into philosophical and theological studies.  In addition, these classes provide the tools for their immersion into the culture of the United States.

All incoming seminarians are assessed for their writing skills as part of the regular seminary admissions process to determine whether they would in need of participation in either ELP or ESL classes. However, courses are open to any student who wishes to improve any and all English skills.

 

Expectations

By the time a student finishes his English studies at St. Patrick's Seminary and University, he should be able to:

  • Read and write English at a level acceptable for university students with few or no mistakes
  • Converse comfortably and freely with others even though an accent may be present
  • Write articles for a parish bulletin
  • Read publicly at liturgy with ample tone and inflection with few or no mispronunciations
  • Understand nuances and complex ideas with greater vocabulary expansion
  • Know when it is necessary to take further courses in English to further ongoing English development while working in active ministry

English Language Faculty

Haupt, Monica
Director/Instructor, English Language Program
  • B.A., Immaculate Heart College, Los Angeles, CA, 1976
  • M.A., Mills College, Oakland, CA 1979
  • California Community College Instructor for Life Credential:Langauge Arts and Literature, 1979
  • CERT (Certificate of Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education), 1988
Campbell, Kenneth C.
  • B.A, Weselyn University, Ill
  • State of California Teaching Credential
  • CERT (Certificate of Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education)

Linquist, Rebecca S.

  • B.A. University of Nebraska
  • M.A. San Jose State University