'Pathways' Diocesan Catechist Formation Begins

“How Beautiful the feet of those who preach good news, those who announce peace” (Isaiah 52:7).

The Diocese of Evansville is composed of 46 parishes and 26 schools. Within those communities, we have an estimated 1,500 catechists who have been called to serve in formalized catechetical settings. This call encompasses a wide variety of ministries including RCIA teams, parish catechists, Parish Catechetical Leaders, school teachers, Youth Ministers, Principals … and the list goes on.

Even though the ministries may vary, we share common beginning points – a baptismal call inviting us to develop a deep relationship with Jesus Christ, and a heart willing to reach out in faith to our brothers and sisters and use gifts freely bestowed to build up the body of Christ. With this understanding, we know that just as Jesus prepared the Apostles for the ministry that they were called to, we must spend time in preparation for the ministry God has called us to – catechetical ministry, the call to echo the faith. The preparation is meant to help us grow spiritually – in the knowledge of Jesus’ teachings, and the understanding of how to apply those teachings to the lives we lead and those whom we accompany.

According to the National Directory of Catechesis written by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, “Diocesan pastoral programs must give absolute priority to the formation of Lay Catechists.” In keeping with this directive and at the designation of the Bishop, the Diocesan Office of Catechesis has formally adopted Pathways, which will provide for the ongoing formation for catechists throughout the diocese. 

Step one of Pathways began on Aug. 1.  Step one includes four one-hour sessions focusing on four core teachings of the Catholic faith – Trinity, Sacraments, Morality and Prayer.

The four introductory sessions of Pathways were created

• To provide all those involved in catechetical ministries in the diocese a common experience and framework on which to build further formational opportunities upon.
• To provide an opportunity in which catechists may come together to provide support for one another in their common call to share the Good news.
• To make available ongoing faith formation for all catechists, which gives witness to the fact that catechetical ministries are essential as a vehicle for the transmission of faith.
• To provide an environment where catechists may gather with one another for faith sharing, prayer and an opportunity to experience the greater diocesan community.

We ask for God’s blessings upon this initial offering and all those who gather. May the power of the Holy Spirit provide all catechists strength and passion to answer the call to our central mission to build up the Kingdom of God.

All sessions are led by trained facilitators and are available at different locations throughout the diocese.  For dates and times of upcoming sessions, visit: http://www.evdio.org/pathways.html. If you have any questions in regard to Pathways please call the Office of Catechesis at 812-424-5536.