Catechist training 2021

In May 2021, Pope Francis issued an Apostolic Letter called Antiquum Ministerium (An Ancient Ministry) in which he formally instituted the Ministry of Catechist. The name of catechesis is given to “the whole of the efforts within the Church to make disciples, to help people to believe that Jesus is the Son of God…and to educate and instruct them in this life and thus build up the Body of Christ” (Pope John Paul II, Catechesi Tradendae (1979) #1). A catechist is like an “adventure guide” leading people on an exciting exploration of the mystery of Christ and His Church.

The primary aim of a catechist is to create opportunities for people to have a personal encounter with Jesus Christ and to help others explore their Catholic faith in ways that are relevant and meaningful for today. This takes place primarily though the delivery of various faith development programmes, events and prayer opportunities in the parish throughout the year.

Ministry areas will include:

• Children’s Ministry
• Youth Ministry
• Adult Faith Formation
• Family Ministry

Catechists will play an integral part in the faith development of those in their care and will be supported by the appropriate members of diocesan staff in their ministry. Catechists will work under the direction of the diocesan Bishop and in consultation with their parish priest to hand on the faith at local level.

Catechist training will first and foremost nurture the personal faith of the catechist, and teach them to impart this faith to others effectively. The training and study required for this ministry will be organised and sponsored by the Diocese of Waterford & Lismore. There is no cost to the individual.

In an exciting partnership with the Catechetical Institute at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio the Diocese of Waterford & Lismore has developed a course of study that is theological, practical, spiritual and personally enriching. The programme will be delivered over three years and is designed to “form those who form others”. It will include four initial in-person Discernment Days, a weekly online study group during term time and an annual retreat. Term time runs September-December (Term 1) & January-May (Term 2) each year. The combination of online and in-person training and formation allows for an accessible and flexible learning experience. The programme will introduce candidates to:

1. An in-depth study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church
2. Development of practical skills
3. Methodology
4. Personal spiritual development

The course will provide a comprehensive grounding in the Catechism of the Catholic Church and will give students the necessary practical skills to ensure students feel confident and equipped to hand on the faith in a parish setting.

The study commitment is approximately 2-4 hours per week. This includes meeting one night a week as part of an online study group and taking time to read small sections of the Catechism in advance of the group study session.

Upon completion of the programme, the candidate will receive Diocesan catechist certification and will be formally commissioned by the Bishop to serve as a Parish Catechist in the Diocese of Waterford & Lismore.

You should apply if you:

• are a faithful Catholic committed to the values, mission and teaching of the Catholic Church
• have a personal relationship with Jesus
• are passionate about the Catholic faith and have a heart for sharing it with others
• would like to grow in your own understanding of the Catholic faith and Church teaching
• are a good communicator with strong organisation and people skills
• can commit a few hours a week to volunteering in your parish upon completion of the programme
• are willing to engage in initial discernment days, as well as ongoing formation and training
• are committed to praying for those you encounter through your ministry
  Desirable but not essential:
• Experience or qualifications in theology, evangelisation, catechesis, religious education or a related area

To apply, please complete the following application form and return by post to Emma Sisk, Faith Development Officer, St John’s Pastoral Centre, John’s Hill, Waterford city or by email to [email protected] by November 5th, 2021. We look forward to hearing from you and wish you well with your application.

Application form: WL_Ministry of Catechist Application Form 2021

Please note
Interviews for successful candidates will take place on the following dates: November 20th / 21st and 27th / 28th, 2021. Shortlisted candidates must be available to attend an interview and, in addition, attendance at four initial Discernment Days (Saturdays: January 15th, February 26th, April 19th & May 21st) is also compulsory. We endeavour to hold these meetings in person, unless prohibited by Covid-19 restrictions.