This Sunday we celebrate Catechetical Sunday, a day the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has set aside to acknowledge and commission all those called to share in the ministry of catechesis. Although we all have a role in passing on our faith to the next generation, our catechists devote themselves to the ministry of catechesis in the Church. “Catechesis is an education of children, young people and adults in the faith of the Church through the teaching of Christian doctrine in an organic and systematic way to make disciples of Jesus Christ.” (CCC#5). This is one of the most important missions entrusted to us in passing on our beautiful Catholic faith.
At St. Pat’s we are very blessed to have such a team of dedicated catechists to carry on this mission. We have a vibrant Parish School of Religion for children and teens from Kindergarten through high school on Sunday mornings and a high school Celebrate Team which meets in the afternoons. Our catechetical team consists of our pastor, our staff members and thirty volunteer catechists who are very passionate about teaching our young people the Good News of Jesus Christ. We not only have classes just for students, but also include the Family Class Time so that parents can also participate in their children’s learning experience. We also have ongoing faith formation for adults and RCIA classes for new Catholics. Learning and growing in our faith never ends. The mystery of God continues to draw us into new ways of understanding and helps us to grow in God’s goodness and grace each day. This awareness and appreciation of God’s presence helps us to grow in our understanding of stewardship as well. It helps us to be mindful of all the blessings that God gives us and that our time, talent and possessions are resources that should be shared for the common good of all. Being a good steward helps us to lead a life that is pleasing to God in all that we say and all that we do at home, at school or at our workplace. Living a life of a good steward should be at the heart and center of every disciple’s life.
Today, as we give thanks and commission all who share the Catholic faith in catechetical ministry. Let us also give thanks and appreciation to the first teachers of the faith…our parents, grandparents and even our great-grandparents. Through their faith, hope and love they continue to pass on their rich traditions, prayers and great examples of discipleship.
God bless you,
Karen Bartos
Coordinator of Religious Education