Faith and Fluency: Spanish for Clergy
Are you a seminarian, priest, or religious professional called to serve a Spanish-speaking community? At IDEAL Spanish Mexico, we understand your unique linguistic and cultural needs. Our specialized programs in Cuernavaca or Oaxaca are meticulously designed to equip you with the essential Spanish language skills, focusing specifically on religious vocabulary and theological concepts.
Immerse yourself in a supportive learning environment where you'll gain confidence in leading Mass, administering sacraments, counseling parishioners, and engaging deeply with Hispanic culture. Beyond the classroom, you'll experience the vibrant spiritual life of Mexico, enriching your understanding and enhancing your ministry.
Strengthen your calling and expand your reach. Come to IDEAL Spanish Mexico and transform your ability to serve.
7:00 AM: Wake up in your comfortable room at your host family's home in Cuernavaca or Oaxaca and perform your morning prayers. You might also choose to attend Mass at one of the churches close to your accommodation.
8:00 AM: Enjoy a delicious breakfast with your host family. Expect traditional dishes like huevos a la mexicana, sweet bread, fresh Mexican coffee or tea, and plenty of fresh fruit.
8:45 AM: Take a pleasant walk to the IDEAL facilities in Cuernavaca or Oaxaca.
9:00 AM: Your Spanish class begins! You'll start with a relaxed chat with your teacher to "warm up" your Spanish. After reviewing homework (we hope you did it!), the day's lesson officially kicks off. After a couple of hours of focused learning, the more relaxed, yet equally important, language practice segment begins. This might involve reading a portion of the Daily Missal, tailored to your Spanish level, heading out into the streets to practice with native Spanish speakers, or reviewing your homily, among many other engaging activities. Your teacher will likely conduct a quick, informal assessment that you might not even notice. Of course, you'll also study clerical vocabulary. Class wraps up with your teacher assigning about an hour's worth of homework, sometimes less, as your primary task is to speak with the friendly Mexican people eager to chat with you in Spanish.
Afternoon & Evening Activities
2:00 PM: It's time for the main meal of the day with your host family. Lunch is the biggest meal in Mexico, so after giving thanks to God in Spanish for the meal, you'll surely find a full spread: a salad or soup, a main course, dessert, and refreshing fruit water. And, of course, tortillas and spicy chili sauce are always on hand!
4:00 PM: Join a teacher for an outing to the city center to visit the market, where they'll explain the various products sold there. Alternatively, you might embark on an excursion to a nearby archaeological site. You'll likely also visit the parish where you'll be assisting the priest with community activities and celebrating Mass.
You will also attend Mass.
7:00 PM: After a substantial main meal, you might not be very hungry. You can stop by a store to grab some fruit and bread for a light dinner, or meet up with friends at a coffee shop for a casual bite. Most importantly, remember to complete your daily homework.
Please note: Optional activities vary daily. It's common for teachers or staff to suggest visiting a great restaurant, going to the cinema, or participating in a traditional festival or city event.
The Weekend!
Weekend adventures! We'll spend the whole day visiting a beautiful, typical town with an interesting archaeological zone and a traditional market where you can find many products and excellent places to eat. Or, we might visit the historic center of a large city, like Mexico City, with its colonial buildings, pre-Hispanic sites, modern constructions, and delicious food. The options for weekend visits are very diverse and fun.
A visit to the Metropolitan Cathedral, and Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City is a must-do excursion for our religious students.
(Weekend activities and excursions are varied and change every weekend.)
Ready to Join Us?
If you're ready to study at IDEAL Spanish Mexico, simply complete the "Request Information" button (The button that is up on the right) or email us at info@idealspanishmexico.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +52 777 211 3407 for more information.
When Can You Come?
Our courses begin every Monday throughout the year. You can study for as many weeks as you prefer, as courses are offered on a weekly basis. We recommend a minimum of four weeks to experience significant progress in your Spanish. Ask about our packages for religious students, which already include Spanish classes, activities (like the visit to the Basilica of Guadalupe), volunteer work at a parish or religious organization, and services such as private airport transportation.
How Do I Get to Cuernavaca?
The best way to arrive is by flying into Mexico City's Benito Juárez Airport (MEX). We can arrange private transportation to pick you up and bring you to Cuernavaca directly to your host family's house or your chosen accommodation. The private trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic in the big city. If you're adventurous, you can take a bus that departs directly from Mexico City Airport to Cuernavaca, and upon arriving in Cuernavaca, take a taxi to your host family's house or your accommodation.
Of course, if you chose to stay with a host family, we'll send you all their information beforehand.
How Do I Get to Oaxaca?
The best way to arrive is by flying into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX). We can arrange private transportation to pick you up and take you directly to your host family's house or your chosen accommodation. The private trip takes about 30 minutes, depending on city traffic. Another option is to take a taxi at the airport to take you to your host family's house or your accommodation.
Of course, if you chose to stay with a host family, we'll send you all their information beforehand.
Another great way to reach Oaxaca City is by flying into the Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and then continuing your journey by bus. From the airport, you'll need to head to the East Bus Terminal (Terminal de Autobuses Oriente), which is commonly known by its acronym, TAPO. At TAPO, you will find many reliable companies offering comfortable, direct bus options to Oaxaca. The direct journey typically takes around 7 hours, and you'll find buses running 24 hours round the clock.
Quick Tip: If you have the time, spending a few days exploring Mexico City is absolutely worthwhile! Feel free to ask us for recommendations on places to visit while you're there.
What Courses Can I Take?
You can enroll in group courses with varying weekly class hours or opt for private classes where you choose the number of hours and schedule. Check out our available courses.
Accommodation
We normally recommend staying with a host family, as it's a great way to continue practicing Spanish after class and experience the lifestyle of a typical Mexican family. However, for religious students, there are also options to stay in convents, seminaries, or religious organizations. Please ask us for more information!
However, you can also find accommodation on your own via Airbnb or stay in a hotel; just ask us!
