"Accordingly, the definitive
aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch, but in
communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ: Only he can lead
us to the love of the Father in the Spirit and make us share
in the life of the Holy Trinity."
Pope John Paul II 's Apostolic Exhortation on Catechetics (1979):
Catechesis in our Times [Catechesi Tradendae) |
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General Directory for Catechesis, the fundamental tasks of catechesis
are promoting knowledge of the faith, liturgical education,
moral formation, teaching to pray, education for community life
and missionary initiation. (#85-86) The Diocesan Office of Religious
Education is dedicated to providing leadership and support to
those involved in accomplishing these fundamental tasks. |
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The Office provides leadership and training for the formation and
education of children, youth and adults in the Catholic faith. It
supports families in their role as primary educators of their children
in passing on the gift of our faith.
For those who are Catechetical Leaders - Directors and Coordinators
of Religious Education, a yearly Leadership Training Conference
is held in August, along with bi-monthly meetings to receive updating
on issues related to catechesis. Regional meetings are also provided
to give catechetical leaders the opportunity to network with others
in the ministry. On-site visits and support are provided to Directors
and Coordinators throughout the year.
Catechist training and workshops are offered in parishes, and also
regionally when requested. In addition, for Catechists and others
who are interested in adult faith formation, the Diocesan Catechist
Formation and Certification Program is offered regionally. A retreat
is included as part of the requirements of the program, and is open
to anyone interested in attending for their own spiritual development.
The Catechist Certification program consists of 48 hours of updating
'knowledge in faith' as well as practical application for teaching.
The Office of Religious Education also holds the annual Religious
Education and Youth Ministry Conference in October that provides
a variety of workshops for catechists, youth group leaders, and
those interested in adult faith formation. The training, workshops,
and certification are made available to help catechists 'acquire
the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to communicate the gospel
message effectively"(NCD 211).
The Religious Education office has on hand materials and resources
that are recommended for catechesis, and networking is encouraged
in sharing ideas for more effective catechesis. The Office provides
information and resources in Catechesis for persons with disabilities,
as well as coordinating the annual Mass with Bishop Carlos A. Sevilla,
S.J. celebrating our gifts as One People of God.
The ministry of catechesis is central to the life and mission of
the Church. The Religious Education Office recognizes that for catechesis
to be effective, the Church "is bidden to offer catechesis
her best resources in people and energy, without sparing effort,
toil or material means, in order to organize it better and to train
qualified personnel" (Pope John Paul II, Catechesis in Our
Times #15).
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