Each year, the Faith Formation Office invites parishioners to discern if God is calling them to help in the faith formation of our young parishioners. It is out of our Baptism we are called to respond to the Great Commission: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations…teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Mt. 28:19-20) Perhaps you’re unsure about what to expect or you’re worried you won’t know enough about your faith to share it. This is a normal response.
We don’t expect you to be a perfect catechist - that role is reserved for Jesus! We’re seeking parents, grandparents, singles, students, first-time catechists, long-time catechists and former catechists. We’re seeking people who want to learn and prepare, who are committed to assisting students to encounter Jesus Christ.
We know you have doubts and questions. Here are a few reasons you may be hesitant to serve as a catechist.
I wouldn’t know what to teach.
We provide a week-by-week curriculum outline and a full set of resources to help you. Our texts from Loyola Press have complete teacher resources, lesson plans and a robust web site full of suggestions. Our experienced catechists share ideas and lesson plans as well. Plus, we have so many resources; a couple closets worth of materials you can use, and our staff is always available to help.
I don’t know my faith well enough.
At one point, we were all on a journey to learn something – how to read, how to tie our shoes, how to do fractions – and we did it. Your faith is the same; when you practice it more actively, you learn more about it. In fact, this is the thing we hear most often from catechists – their faith grows exponentially when they teach Children's Faith Formation.
I don’t have the time.
If you attend the 9 a.m. or 11:30 Mass, you’re already here on Sunday mornings. Planning takes only a couple of hours during the week. Chances are you’re already online in the evening; you can surf for lesson ideas then. We have two gatherings throughout the year: August and January. Our door is always open for additional questions or ideas.
I enjoy having a quiet hour on Sunday/Monday while my kids are in class.
We get that. At baptism, you were called to be a witness to Christ’s love in the world. Serving as a catechist allows you to live out this call. Coffee and quiet are beautiful things, but the power of the Holy Spirit at work in the classroom has even greater beauty and serves to help build the kingdom of God. Think "treasure in heaven'.
I’m not crafty (or can’t sing).
This isn’t the “CCD” you may remember from your youth. Our students learn in all different kinds of ways, including using technology. Can’t sing? No problem; plenty of people on Spotify can. Not creative? Our resource library is full of books, ideas, handouts, posters and more. Plus, there’s no shortage of ideas on Pinterest.
I’m afraid to teach by myself.
You don’t have to. We are happy to pair you with another catechist or provide you with an aide. You are also supported by the staff and parent volunteers. And if something comes up and you cannot teach, we also have substitutes to help out.
I’m worried I’ll be the “parent” rather than the “teacher” in my child’s class.
If you’d rather teach a grade or class different than your child’s, we can make that happen. Some parents like teaching their child’s class and move up with their children each year. Others like teaching a different grade.
What if someone asks me a question I can’t answer?
No one knows all the answers. Tell the students you don't know but you will find out and let them know at the next class. Then come talk to us. We have the people and the resources to help you find the answer so you can bring it back to class.
I’m not “cool” enough to relate to students.
Our students have enough “cool” friends. What is needed are dedicated people who loves Jesus! People who care enough to learn their names, listen when they speak, involve them in meaningful lessons, lead them in prayer and ultimately help them to encounter Jesus. To accompany young people is to share your own experiences of faith and your relationship with Jesus to help them realize they are not alone - ever!
I don’t think I can manage a room of 18 kids.
Very few catechists are professional teachers, so we help you classroom management. In addition to giving you resources to manage the expectation, parents and students understand what is expected for participation each week.
Is God calling you to serve His children? Be open to His calling and like Mary and so many of the saints, step up with courage. (Be not afraid. - Is 41:10) God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called. Come! Join us on a journey lead by the Holy Spirit, to work in the fields of Sts. Peter & Paul; to help our young people encounter and grow deeper in love with Jesus!
Check out the "job description" on the Catechist Corner. You can also see the digital resources we offer through Loyola Press, Formed, and Hallow - to keep your prayer life strong!
Questions? We’d love to hear from you. Please call the office at 830-625-4531 or email: