"The definite aim of catechesis is ‘to put people not only in touch, but also in communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ’."
—GDC, Par 80.
"Our vision involves fostering awareness among members of our Diocese of the true role of catechesis and offering the support necessary to enable the parish to carry out this responsibility."
— Put out into the Deep, Diocesan Vision Document, 2003
We support and promote the work of catechists through courses and days of retreat and offer advice as requested.
On-going formation for catechists - Sept. 2011 - July 2012
This course is designed for those who are called by God to contribute to the mission of evangelisation and catechesis within parish communities.The course will enable participants to become more familiar with some of the key issues in our present culture that have implications for evangelisation and catechesis.
Aims of the course
Participants will be enabled to:
- Grow in a deeper personal relationship with God.
- Deepen their understanding of their role as baptised Christians in the life and mission of the Church.
- Explore some of the core issues in our present culture which have implications for evangelisation and catechesis.
- Build on present understanding of Church and sacraments. Appreciate more fully the relationship between catechesis and liturgy.
- Come to a deeper understanding of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults within the life of the Church, as a model for all sacramental preparation.
- Grow in confidence in the ministry of catechesis.
- Develop the skills already acquired to lead groups in the parish.
- Learn how to use and adapt resources for various age groups.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
- Participation at the assigned two hour sessions, study days, day of retreat and the Annual Diocesan Lenten Spirituality day.
- The keeping of a journal
- A short reflection paper on a chosen topic from each term.
- The preparation of a liturgy/prayer service for one of the following groups:
- RCIA
- First Communion parents
- First Communion children
- Confirmation candidates
- Optional - A short review of any book from the bibliography.
PROCESS
The course will include input, small group sharing, theological reflection, and workshops demonstrating the practical approach to faith sharing with children, young people and adults.The Word of God ‘in all its richness’ will permeate all aspects of the course.
Experience – The Word of God
Celebrate – Prayer & Sacraments
Live - Mission
Course Director
Sr Nuala Gannon IBVM
The inspiring criteria of the formation of catechists
An adequate conception of the formation of catechists must always take prior note of some of the criteria which inspire and configure with varying emphases relevant to the formation of catechists:
"Firstly, it is a question of forming catechists for the need to evangelise in the present historical context, with its values, challenges and disappointments. To accomplish this task, it is necessary for catechists to have deep faith, a clear Christian and ecclesial identity, as well as a great social sensitivity. All formation programmes must accommodate these points."
—GDC, Par. 237