Let’s share our joys in being a catechist
Can you add to our list?
Photo by Mike ConnorsThis summer, refresh your catechetical spirit by reflecting on the following joys of being a catechist.
We’re answering a need in our parish.
A call for catechists was in the bulletin for three Sundays in a row and still more volunteers were needed. You asked, “What can I do to help?”
It makes us feel good about ourselves.
You may not feel comfortable serving as a lector or a member on a parish council, but you love kids and can use your talents in this ministry.
Our faith is the center of our lives or we strive to make it that way
Whether you experienced faith as a gift growing up or as an adult, it’s important in your life and you want to hand that gift on to others.
We find joy in learning more about our faith.
You can’t imagine all the things you learn about our faith when you teach it. Sometimes it’s the children who help us see things with new eyes.
We discover and use skills we thought we never had.
Did you think you would be able to plan lessons, incorporate projects, and keep a class discussion lively? That’s part of the joy of being a catechist.
We touch lives forever.
What a good feeling it is to see a child outside of religious education class who comes up to you and says, “Hi.” Your students’ lives are touched by the time you spent with them.
Not that we look for a “thank you,” but it makes us feel good when we hear it.
A thank you brings joy to everyone—two simple words but they do wonders.
Help our list to grow. Share your joys of being a catechist with other catechists. Please email them to rcoffey@rtjscreativecatechist.com. And THANK YOU for being a catechist!
Rosanne was named editor of RTJ's Creative Catechist in April 2010. She was previously advertising manager and worked in marketing for RTJ's Creative Catechist, Today's Parish and God's Word Today. For over 20 years she taught in Catholic schools. She has also been a catechist and associate director for the Norwich Diocesan Office for Faith Formation.
