The Catechist

The vocation of the catechist springs from the sacrament of Baptism and is strengthened in Confirmation, and the parish helps and supports them to realize and to fulfil their ministry. From a loving knowledge of Christ comes the desire to make him known in the lives of others so that they too become disciples. Catechists exercise their ministry in accordance with their particular gifts and talents.
The task of the catechist is to:

• Profess faith in God who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
• Facilitate communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ
• Impart knowledge of Scripture and the Tradition of our Catholic faith.
• Transmit the message of the Gospel, making known the life of Christ in the context of Salvation history.
• Transmit the meaning of the Creed, which is a compendium of Scripture and the faith of the Church.
• Animate a catechetical journey according to the stages and rites of the RCIA.
• Deepen the understanding of, and right attitudes towards, the moral and social teachings of the Church.
• To promote knowledge of and appreciation for the sacraments, and encourage participation in them.
• To lead participants to pray as Jesus taught his disciples.
• To encourage participation in the mission of the Church.

Selection and Formation of the Catechists

• The parish priest, in consultation with the parish catechetical co-ordinator carefully selects the catechists.
• Initial Formation is essential and must be on-going.
• The Archdiocese gives priority to the formation and training of catechists so that they are capable of passing on the Gospel and the Teachings and Traditions of the Church.
  
  Training and Formation includes the following:
  • The Role of the Catechist
  • The Learner – psychological, moral, physical and spiritual development
  • Overview of The General Directory for Catechesis – vision and knowledge of catechesis
  • Knowledge of The Catechism of the Catholic Church
  • Scripture
  • Conscience and Catholic Morality
  • Church History and Tradition
  • Social Teachings
  • RCIA
  • Prayer
  • Lesson Methodology - With adults, youth and children.
  • Emphasis on the need for an on-going process.