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For the Catechist
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“In fact, to be a catechist is a vocation of service in the church; what has been received as a gift from God must in turn be transmitted," he said in the message published by the Vatican, July 12. “The vocation to the ministry of catechesis flows from the sacrament of Baptism and strengthened by Confirmation. In addition to the common vocation to the apostolate, some faithful feel called by God to take on the role of catechist in the Christian community, at the service of a more organic and structured catechesis.” (DC 122)
The Catechist is:
- A witness of faith and keeper of the memory of God in experiencing the goodness and truth of the Gospel
- A teacher and mystagogue who introduces others to the mystery of God revealed in the paschal mystery of Christ and guided by the Holy Spirit
- An accompanier and educator of those who are entrusted to him or her by the Church
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Who is considered a catechist?
All baptized members of the Church are responsible for sharing the Gospel. Those who are called in a special way in the parish setting are catechists. This includes those who instruct children, youth, and adults. Essential Catechist Formation provides the basic understandings of the process of evangelization and catechesis.
Why catechist formation?
Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us, published by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, challenges us to “grow in discipleship throughout life” and that “all believers need and are called to build vibrant parish and diocesan communities of faith and service.” Parish and diocesan communities “cannot exist without a strong, complete, and systematic catechesis for all its members” (p. 2, emphasis added). The goal of catechist formation is to provide opportunities for catechists to enrich their love and knowledge of the Catholic faith in order to be more effective communicators of the Gospel to those whom they are called to minister. Essential Catechist Formation accompanies catechists in doctrinal, spiritual and pedagogical formation necessary for effective catechesis.
Recognition as a diocesan certified catechist is given to those who complete the four modules of Essential Catechist Formation. Each module includes two-hour segments, for a total of 12 segments.
How soon do I begin the certification process?
Essential Catechist Formation can begin at any time, whether you are just considering being a catechist, or you are a seasoned catechist. Current catechetical methods and deeper understandings of the catechetical process towards discipleship are always necessary to benefit the missionary work of the Church.
What are the courses offered in Essential Catechist Certification?
Essential Catechist Formation is developed around four modules with two-hour segments. Participants who complete the twelve segments and the final project will receive diocesan recognition as certified catechists. The modules may be taken in any order. It is recommended, however, to complete the segments together as a module for the continuity with a facilitator.
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Evangelization and CatechesisCatechists: Agents of Evangelization
Sharing the Kerygma: Our Faith Story
Pedagogy: Leading the Learner
Tasks of Catechesis
Scripture & Tradition
Scriptural Foundations
Old Testament
New Testament
Creed, Councils & Church
Expressions of Faith
Spirituality & Prayer
Morality & Social Justice
Sacraments and Liturgy
Methods & Models
Planning Your Lesson (TBD)
Final Project
How do I register for courses?
Contact our office for more information and registration details. Our office will guide you through a personal formation plan to meet your needs for Essential and Ongoing Formation as a Catechist and Master Catechist.
See the calendar for upcoming dates for formation, or call our office to schedule sessions in your parish. Click events to see details.
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Starting the Catechetical Year: Ways to Meet and Greet Parents
Lesson Links
Bulletin Board Ideas
Service Ideas
Seasonal Activities & Prayer Experiences
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Books
Articles
Websites
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