“People today put more trust in witnesses than in teachers, in experiences than in teaching, and in life and actions than in theories.” –St. John Paul II, Redemptoris Missio, #42
Being a Catechist*
I am the most effective element of evangelization in my ministry.
I evangelize more effectively by my being than by any task that I perform or programs and materials I use.
What I do speaks more eloquently than anything I say.
The Three-fold Vocation if the Catechist/Evangelizer*
- Be an animated witness of the Faith.
- Others observe that you have a personal relationship with Jesus.
- Display vim, vigor, vitality, enthusiasm for Jesus, others, for the mission of spreading the Gospel.
- Energy attracts others.
- Witness Christian values.
- Display a patient, helpful attitude/approach.
- Be respectful, confidential.
- Never underestimate the power of a smile.
- Be an agent of hope.
- Be a mentor.
- Illustrate that “the Faith” is a dynamic, lively process rather than a static condition.
- Demonstrate that “the Faith” is a life-long, continual conversion to Jesus and growing in relationship with Him.
- Trace the ways of grace in your lifeline.
- Let your speech convey that you are one with the listener—not above or apart from.
- Perform “moral miracles”. Show love to parents/students who vex you; initiate, welcome, acknowledge, include, invite, give second chances, ask advice, accommodate, forgive…
- Testify to the difference God has made in your life.
- Be a missionary of mercy.
- Be an effective teacher.
- In culturally, age-appropriate ways transmit the Word of God from Scripture and Tradition.
- Know well and integrate content from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Refer to the CCC when you plan a lesson.
- Publisher programs include teacher guide material. Study it and incorporate it in your lessons.
- Speak from a prepared heart.
- Deliver material with a simple, non-judgmental attitude.
- Speak to/with parents & students; not at them.
- Be a witness to Jesus and the joy of the Gospel.
*Based on the talk by Sr. Patricia McCormack, IHM, EdD at the Archdiocesan Catechetical Congress, 9/22/2018
If you think you have been called to be a catechist, you are welcome to come to one of our monthly meetings. We meet the second Sunday afternoon (of most months) immediately following 11 a.m. Mass (approximately 12:15-12:30) in the St Augustine Room. Food and drinks are provided in turn by the catechists and myself. Everyone is always welcome to bring something to share. For more information,
Contact:
Laurann Donahue
405-737-4476
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