Our Vision

Vision Statement

Yarra Theological Union is a Catholic centre for theological education and ministerial formation. Drawing from the rich traditions of the constituent religious orders, we enjoy a strong relationship with the broader theological community. Operating from well-established facilities, we see ourselves as a key resource for the churches in Australia and our neighbouring countries.

Mission Statement

1. We are an independent centre for theological teaching, research and scholarship offering a number of undergraduate and postgraduate awards under the auspices of the Melbourne College of Divinity.
2. We are shaped by the apostolic energy, spirituality and traditions of the constituent religious orders, and enriched by the continuing generosity of those who take an active part in the life of our centre.
3. We are at the service of the Church, and exercise this service in cooperation with a number of Recognised Teaching Institutions with whom we are affiliated through the Melbourne College of Divinity.
4. We are governed by a Council composed of representatives of the current constituent orders and the President and Academic Dean of YTU.
5. We aim for excellence in theological education and ministerial formation in an ecumenical and multicultural context.
6. We have faculty and students from different denominational traditions, and our awards are open to male and female students both lay and professed.
7. We are a hospitable, eucharistic community welcoming those who seek, not only education, but personal and spiritual transformation.
8. We are also a centre for comment and dialogue with the wider society on those matters which fall within our competence.

Value Statement

Our Core Values are:

1. Service to church and community.
2. Faithful and continuing interpretation of Catholic Tradition.
3. Theological education and ministerial formation.
4. Hospitality to persons and traditions.
5. Commitment to being a community of scholarship, prayer and pastoral care.