Professional development

The ACU Centre for Liturgy, in conjunction with ACU's Faculty of Theology and Philosophy, periodically provides opportunities for musicians, liturgists, clergy, teachers, pastoral associates, parishioners, members of Liturgy Committees and Commissions to participate as Professional Learners in academic units in the study of liturgy. Teachers who wish to apply for professional development accreditation hours for attendance at these may request a certificate of attendance to support this.

Professional Learning Opportunity 2026

THLS601 Eucharist - July 6 - 9 2026 (Online via Zoom)

The unit explored the anthropological and biblical roots of the Eucharist and traced its major theological themes including Eucharist as participation in the Paschal Mystery, and as sacrifice, presence, communion, blessing and devotion. Studying the liturgical sources and practices of the Church, the historical and theological evolution of the Eucharist in a range of Christian traditions and time-periods was investigated. It attended especially to the current form of the rite in the Roman Catholic tradition, paying attention to key ecclesiastical legislation pertaining to the celebration of the Eucharist and articulating a theology of the rite drawing on the liturgy itself.

Training and professional development for Catholic educators

We provide schools and Catholic education offices with targeted professional development sessions and workshops tailored to address the needs of primary and secondary school teachers, religious education leaders, and worshiping communities.

Topics include:

1. Liturgy and liturgical principles
2. The sacramentality of religious leadership
3. Celebrating masses with young children: top ten hints
4. Celebrating non-sacramental liturgies in school communities
5. Exploring the Directory for Masses with Children and the Eucharistic Prayers for Masses with Children
6. How to celebrate well in Catholic schools
7. Engaging youth in liturgical celebrations
8. Liturgical music for primary schools
9. Sacraments of initiation
10. Sacraments of healing.

Pastoral training and formation sessions on these and other topics can also be tailored to meet specific school community needs.

Professional development for clergy

We provide specialised professional development sessions for clergy, such as:

• Preparing and Celebrating Catholic Funerals - working collaboratively with Funeral Directors.
• Updating and upskilling: the art of presiding at worship
• The art and craft of preaching

Liturgical consultations

Through direct consultation with a local parish community, we can undertake a comprehensive liturgical or liturgical music audit of your parish's worship practices in order to provide specific advice on how to improve the quality of your liturgical celebrations.

Information about fees

ACU Centre for Liturgy charges fees for its programs and services, operating on a not-for-profit basis consistent with ACU's constitution. We are committed to providing our services at a reasonable rate.

Download Information About Fees (PDF, 357KB)