The Kerygma is the essence of the Gospel message. It tells us the story of our salvation and in its simplest form it reminds us that God created us, Sin came into the world, Jesus saved us with his life, death and Resurrection and he invites us to respond by the way we live our lives. This great love story is outlined clearly on the National Eucharistic Revival Page. Visit it below to see the simple and amazing message that guides our faith! This message is an important part of any catechesis and should guide your year!

We are thankful for your ministry!!

This year's theme is "Lord, when did we see you hungry?" Who is hungering for God's presence in your midst? How can your ministry nurture and nourish them?

Loving Father, we pray today for our catechists. We thank you for their gift of ministry in your Church. Grant them your wisdom that they may grow in the understanding and teaching of your Word. Grant them also your love that they may be fruitful heralds of your Word and lead others to love you.

Pour forth your Holy Spirit upon them to grant them wisdom about what is important; knowledge of the truths of faith; understanding of their meaning; right judgement about how to apply them in life; courage to persevere even in the face of adversity; reverence before all that is sacred and holy; and that loving zeal which leads others to a transforming encounter with your Son.

We pray this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Whether you teach in a classroom model, family faith large group, or even online, the beginning of the year is an important time to initiate building stronger relationships with the families you will serve. Get to know all members by inviting them to participate in your first session or another gathering. We always work in partnership with families, so clear communication, a warm and caring demeanor and support of their role as catechists is highly important. How will you begin that family connection on day 1 this year? Check back here each month for some simple ways to reach out!

Our diocese has partnered with the Catechetical Institute at Franciscan University. This is an online learning platform devoted to ministry training called Franciscan At Home. A catechist track has been developed to give you valuable tools and provide you with much needed information for your ministry! You can learn at your own pace or you can request a mentor to be present to learn alongside you! To open your free account and start learning follow the steps below:

This webinar gives catechists and catechetical leaders some insight into how to reach parents in order to successfully partner with them in faith formation. Simply click on the link title in green below to access the webinar on the Catechetical Institute. Be sure to create your FREE account while you are there! There webinars are a great way to keep learning!

Want to learn more about contemporary teaching strategies being used in Faith formation today? Leslie Barkin will explore some of the popular methods used today that are seeing good results!

An afternoon session and an evening session will be provided for your convenience. Please register for one of the sessions by clicking on the buttons below:

Debtor in Possession

Email: leslie.barkin@dor.org
Website: oec.dor.org
Phone: (585)328-3210