Quit the Monologue
Question: I’d like to stop monopolizing the lessons I offer. Ideally, I want my classes to have better student participation. Any ideas for help?...
6 Principles for Managing Successful Faith Formation Sessions
"Why? What did I do wrong?" asked James as I, a frustrated new catechist, banished him to the hall for bad behavior.
Getting Class Started: From Chatter to Lesson
LEE DANESCO
You can direct pre-class enthusiasm into the faith-sharing experience of the day through activity. Here are some creative ways to move from chatter...
Classroom and Office Organization Strategies
Get organized with tips from those in the field
LISANNE V. JENSEN
Endless options exist for organizing a space: storage bins, shelves, bookcases, cabinets...
Encouraging Young People to Discern God’s Call
Get ready for National Vocation Awareness Week
LISANNE V. JENSEN
As National Vocation Awareness Week approaches, how can catechists, educators, youth ministers, and faith formation coordinators...
Create a Portable Prayer Corner
I first taught religion on Saturday mornings at St. Lucy's, a mission church. My "classroom" was the kitchen. The room was equipped with folding...
Help Your Students Listen
CONNIE CLARK
The buzz was getting louder. I was showing a video clip in a parish hall full of middle schoolers, and as I searched...
10 Ideas for Getting Started
G. JOHNSON
I’ve been a catechist for 11 years. I remember how each first session used to bring me a lot of anxiety because I...
More Than Math!
How Catechists Teach Differently Than Any Other Kind of Teacher
Jared Dees
When I first started out as a religious educator, I used to be envious...
May I have your attention please?
LEE DANESCO
It happens with frustrating frequency. You come to class packing a solid, well-prepared teaching plan only to be met by disappointing student indifference....
