Catechist Formation

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.

In recent weeks, you and the team have been preparing for the learning year ahead by reviewing texts and working on lesson plans. In this prayer, you will bless one another in a special way and profess your beliefs in the creed.

A beautiful prayer to help catechists prepare for each class time.

The period from September 15 to October 15 has been set aside to honor and celebrate Hispanic heritage. It is a very good time for all of us who share the catechetical ministry to learn more about how this heritage is forming and enriching our local churches.

I believe a catechist should be willing to respond to any question he or she poses to others. What follows are my reflections on these four questions.