Catholic Bible Institute of Southern Arizona (CBISA)
1. History
The Catholic Bible Institute of Southern Arizona (CBISA) was founded as part of the Diocese of Tucson's commitment to providing deep, structured Biblical education. Established to serve both laypeople and those interested in leading Bible study groups, the program offers a three-year comprehensive study of Sacred Scripture. CBISA’s mission is to equip students with both theological knowledge and practical skills for understanding and teaching the Bible. The program also focuses on fostering prayerful engagement with Scripture, making it accessible for both spiritual enrichment and leadership certification.
2. Faculty
The faculty at CBISA includes renowned scholars such as Fr. Felix Just, S.J., Ph.D., from Jesuit Biblical Ministries and Dr. Daniel Smith-Christopher, a professor of Theological Studies at Loyola Marymount University. These instructors bring significant academic credentials and years of teaching experience. Their combined expertise ensures that students receive a thorough grounding in Biblical theology and practical guidance in leading Bible studies. The faculty is committed to providing a holistic understanding of the Bible from both an academic and spiritual perspective.
3. Academic Programs
CBISA offers a three-year structured program:
- Year One: Focuses on the New Testament, including studies on the Gospels, Acts, Pauline Letters, Catholic Epistles, and New Testament Theology.
- Year Two: Shifts to the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible), covering key themes such as the Torah, Prophetic Writings, Historical Books, and Wisdom Literature.
- Year Three: A practicum year where students learn facilitation, conflict resolution, and leadership skills to lead Bible studies effectively.
Students can choose to pursue the program for either enrichment or certification, depending on their individual goals.
4. Denomination
CBISA is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, operating under the auspices of the Diocese of Tucson. The program aligns with traditional Catholic teachings and is designed for individuals interested in deepening their understanding of the Bible within a Catholic theological framework. It emphasizes the integration of Scripture with Catholic doctrine and liturgical practice, making it suitable for Catholic educators, lay ministers, and parishioners.
5. Curriculum & Key Subjects
The curriculum of CBISA focuses on:
- Biblical Exegesis and Hermeneutics
- New Testament and Old Testament Studies
- Leadership and Facilitation Skills (for Year Three)
- Scripture-Praying Methods such as Lectio Divina
The third year of the program is particularly notable for its practicum component, which equips students with hands-on experience in leading groups and teaching Biblical texts within their communities.
6. Tuition & Fees
CBISA’s tuition is $300 per year, which covers all instructional materials and classes. This makes the program one of the more affordable options for theological study within the region. The cost includes access to all seminars, resources, and guidance from faculty members, with a focus on ensuring broad accessibility for those seeking certification or personal enrichment.
7. Location
The Catholic Bible Institute of Southern Arizona operates out of Our Mother of Sorrows Church in Tucson, Arizona. Classes are held once a month on Saturdays, making the program convenient for individuals with busy schedules. Mass is offered before each session, fostering a spiritually rich environment for learning.
8. Practical Learning & Group Leadership
In addition to theoretical studies, the CBISA program includes a strong emphasis on practical ministry skills. The third-year practicum is designed to help students develop competencies in group dynamics, adult education, and conflict resolution. These practical elements are meant to prepare students to lead Bible study groups effectively in various settings, from parishes to community organizations.
9. Accreditation
While CBISA is not accredited in the same way as traditional universities, it is fully endorsed by the Diocese of Tucson and is recognized as a respected program for those seeking leadership roles in Catholic ministries. The program is designed to meet the educational needs of lay leaders, catechists, and those preparing for ministry roles in Catholic parishes.
10. Student Life & Community Engagement
Students at CBISA form a close-knit community, gathering once a month for in-depth study sessions. These sessions not only provide academic learning but also offer opportunities for spiritual growth through prayer, discussion, and communal reflection. Students have access to support from their instructors and fellow participants, making the learning process both academically and spiritually fulfilling.
11. Denominational Focus
While rooted in Catholic theology, CBISA’s curriculum emphasizes an ecumenical approach to scripture, allowing students to engage with the Bible in a way that is both deeply Catholic and broadly accessible. The program's teaching emphasizes unity in faith while respecting different theological perspectives within the Catholic tradition.
This seminary is ideal for Catholics looking to deepen their Biblical knowledge and acquire practical leadership skills for ministry. It provides a well-rounded, spiritually enriching experience for both personal and professional growth.