Building Intercultural Competence for Ministers (BICM)

In 20##, representatives from the Diocese of San Bernardino were amongst the first to be trained by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) new Building Intercultural Competency for Ministers (BICM) program. BICM, pronounced "Bic-em" as we lovingly call the program, focuses on cultural diversity and is aimed at anyone involved in ecclesial ministry.

The focus on cultural diversity is grounded on the urgent need to grow in knowledge and develop appropriate attitudes and skills for the purpose of carrying out the Church's mission of evangelization. One cannot adequately preach, teach, or form persons in the Catholic faith without attending to the ways in which Catholic faith and identity become embodied in culture. Proficiency in matters of culture and intercultural relations is an essential feature of the ongoing process of conversion by which the Gospel becomes life for the people. (Building Intercultural Competence for Ministers, 2012, Introduction)

This team of USCCB trained diocesan employees returned with zeal and fire, and at the direction of Bishop Gerald R. Barnes, our BICM Core Team implemented and personalized a 3-day comprehensive workshop series that is offered and required to every full-time clergy, religious, and lay employee of the Diocese of San Bernardino.

We offer the BICM workshop twice a year during the months of June and October. They are usually held on 3 consecutive Wednesdays or Thursdays, however scheduling conflicts may alter these dates. Invitations to attend BICM workshops are sent to your pastor, pastoral coordinator, administrator, or department director.

If you have any questions, please call (909) 475-5140.