Catechist Formation

Master catechists answer questions from readers.

Two anniversaries of importance to the Catholic Church were marked on October 11, 2012. On that date, the Church celebrated both the fiftieth anniversary of the opening session of the Second Vatican Council and the twentieth anniversary of the publication, in French, of the original, provisional edition of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. To celebrate this anniversary, this article will provide a brief introduction to the Catechism (henceforth CCC), including its history, an overview of the CCC, and finally, suggestions on how it can be used most effectively within ministry.

This Year of Faith is an invitation, not a command. It is not a time to complain that the Divine should take a more active role in the world, but that we should “make God credible in this world” (Fisichella). It’s more than being nice or doing one’s duty. It’s going to demand sacrifice, courage, and an enormous amount of energy—but probably not more than the original disciples needed in order to follow the Great Commission. They may have been the first to witness like their hair was on fire.

Many people don't realize how frequently the heart is mentioned in the Bible and the ways in which God teaches us about faith using that human organ. As catechists, we can experience deep and meaningful prayer in many of these references to the heart found in Scripture.

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.

Vacation Bible School has become a fruitful blessing to the Catholic Church in recent years. Once seen as a Protestant tradition, numerous Catholic publishers now provide informative and exciting thematic materials that celebrate great stories of the Bible and tenets of our Catholic faith. Today, most diocesan offices make recommendations for resources, and parishes can find online catalogs from their favorite publishers.

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 Advent.

Everyone enjoys and needs some recognition for a job well done.

Being a co-worker in God’s vineyard requires us to adapt to the many different families who come to us seeking religious formation. We must consistently put Christian charity first. In this way, we can be beautiful branches on his vine.

The learning area needs to express warmth and welcome to your students. Here is an idea for how to decorate and arrange your learning space and prayer table for September.