Founded by Sacred Heart University with the Diocese of Bridgeport in 1990, The Institute for Religious Education and Pastoral Studies (REAPS) has as its goal: service to the Church and its people. That goal includes seven mission areas: increasing knowlege of the Catholic faith; benefiting personal spiritual growth; improving the effectiveness of lay ministries; exploring and discussing contemporary moral and ethical issues; supplementing the education of the clergy; encouraging ecumenical and interfaith dialogue; and conducting research in religious education and pastoral studies. REAPS offers over 35 seperate programs from 3 graduate core concentrations, 8 certificate programs, leadership and spiritual development programs for laity and clergy, liturgical and pastoral care ministers, to self-enrichtment courses throughout Connecticut, and in Florida, Belgium, England and France. Over 20,000 students have participated in REAPS programs. For more information, visit our website by clicking on REAPS (in blue) above or call 203.371.7867.