A few short months ago, Pope Francis issued an Apostolic Letter focused on the ministry of the Catechist, Antiquum Ministerium. He shared that it is a great gift to “spread the Gospel [and] encourage the Church in our day to appreciate possible new ways for her to remain faithful to the word of the Lord so that his Gospel can be preached to every creature” (2). This transmission of the beauty, goodness, and truth of our faith is done through both word and example. In this ministry, the Holy Spirit helps you to be:
A witness of faith and keeper of the memory of God
A teacher and a mystagogue (introducing others to the mystery of God)
An accompanier and educator
After reading this, was your first thought, “well I don’t know enough about our faith to teach others”? You are not alone, and the good news is—you are not expected to know EVERYTHING there is to know about Catholicism in order to be a Catechist. In fact, part of this ministry includes continued formation for your own spiritual growth. Every month, groups of Catechists meet together for their own formation, study and prayer together, helping to remain rooted in their own identity in Christ, drawing deeper into faith, and living authentic witness of holiness together. Remember, God doesn’t call the qualified, but He qualifies those He calls!
Do you feel called to be a catechist, youth leader, or adult formation facilitator? Or, just want to learn more about this ministry and its offerings? Contact the Faith Development Office today!