Notes to a Newbie Catechist
On Surviving — and Thriving — in Catechetical Ministry
JOY DAVIS
You’ve been asked to volunteer as a catechist. Maybe someone tapped you on the shoulder...
ICE: Making Every Minute Count
In 1785, the poet Robert Burns wrote "To a Mouse," a poem that inadvertently tells us something about the reality of being a catechist. Burns said, "The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry." In other words, no matter how well thought-out your lesson plan is, be prepared. Expect the unexpected. Have a Plan B. Make every minute count.
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?...
Your Space: In the Desert with Jesus
The learning area needs to inspire and engage your students. Here is an idea for how to decorate and arrange your learning space and prayer table for Lent.
Leading DRE: 3 Summer-Break Planning Strategies
Before you Pause, Look Back and Look Forward
DEANNA BARTALINI
The catechetical year is winding down. You’ve made it through whirlwind months of working on...
Teacher: “I don’t know how to handle student conflicts or fights.”
Sometimes we are at odds with others-and so are our students. As Catholic educators, we might not want to call it "fighting"; that goes...
Advice from a Master Catechist: Mid-Year Slump, Faith Crisis, or Both?
It’s midyear, and I’m facing a personal slump. I don’t want to be a quitter and inconvenience the DRE or the children by giving...
Your Space: The Waters of Baptism
The learning area needs to inspire and engage your students. Here is an idea for how to decorate and arrange your learning space and prayer table with a Baptism theme.
Your Space: You Are the Light of the World
The learning area needs to inspire and engage your students. Here is an idea for how to decorate and arrange your learning space and prayer table using a theme that reflects Jesus’ teaching about our being the light of the world.
Tips for Adding Music to Prayer
I can’t carry a Tune — How can I use music to pray with students?
KATE DANELUK
Years ago, music was considered such an important part...
