Yesterday, I began my sixth year as a catechist, we have
fourteen enrolled in the program so far, but that number changes as more people
join on the second week. This year two
of our students from last year have joined the team and their excitement has
really impacted me – to hear their new found love for God is so
refreshing. I think sometimes, after
some years of following Jesus I can take things for granted and to see the excitement
of new converts really inspires and motivates my own faith journey. Last year, I really thought it would be my
last because I had so many things going on that I just couldn’t give my best to
my RCIA service, but after I was informed that faith formation for the diocese
had halted for a year I found myself with the time and energy to continue my RCIA
service. I think if you’re interested in
sharing your faith with others through a parish faith formation program here
are some tips.
Age Matters- I was a Confirmation catechist for one year and
I just never found my grove with that age group (teens). After joining RCIA where I find myself
sharing my faith with adults I felt right at home. I love working with adults
because of their level of maturity. Yes,
I have found some adults can be challenging; but for the most part they are
more respectful and willing to open their hearts to God. Having said this, I have friends that love
working with children and teens- so it really depends on your personality.
Teamwork- It really does take a village to lead others to
Christ. God created us for community and
the team reflects that faith family unity.
A good team uses the strengths of each person for the evangelical
mission. I have been serving as the
secretary of RCIA since I began serving in addition to giving lessons and
helping in daily instruction. Each
member in our team decides how they want to serve, what they want to be in
charge of and that really enriches the program because each is comfortable in their
roles.
A Good Leader makes
all the difference. While God is in charge of the conversions a leader of the
team helps guide the team and students.
Working with my best friend and leader of faith formation for adults has
been such a great experience. Sometimes
we butt heads, but for the most part her creativity and passion is
contagious. Every year she pushes us to
give better service, she challenges us to grow and I think that’s why I
continue to serve as a catechist.
I think when it comes to giving to others the old adage, “you
can’t give what you don’t have,” really plays an important role. Each year I learn so much, this equips me to
better serve the following year. Thus, I
never feel like I have mastered the art of being a good catechist because I am
always learning, this ongoing growth is what keeps being a catechist exciting. Every year a new batch of souls come to us
and make the year so utterly unique – am really looking to the adventure of
this 2019-2020 faith formation year.
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