"The tasks of catechesis are to promote the knowledge of faith, the meaning of liturgy and sacraments, and moral formation in Jesus Christ; to teach Christians how to pray; to prepare them to live in community and participate in the life and mission of the church; and to promote a "missionary spirit to be present as Christians in society". In other words, these tasks are to achieve the objective of making and forming disciples of Jesus Christ. To accomplish these tasks, "catechesis depends on the "transmission of the Gospel message and the experience of the Christian life" as expressed by the catechist."

Our community’s most valuable assets are its people and the gifts they share. We need those willing to pass on the Catholic faith to our children, youth and adults. Please let us know if you willing to take on this most important ministry as a catechist or as a catechist assistant. If you are willing to share our Catholic faith, we provide the training and the formation to assist you in this effort.

All catechists working with adults, youth and children will be prepared to hand on our faith to the best of their ability.   The Diocese of Richmond has established Catechetical Norms "Called to be Disciples" for all parishes to accomplish a certification process beginning with the PATHWAYS 2009 formation process.

The NEW Pathways for Catechist Formation is called Pathways 2009 and is a one-day, instructor-led, interactive program of prayer, learning and reflection for all parish catechists of adults, youth and children AND Catholic school religion teachers.

No lengthy writing is required! All curriculum materials are provided to the catechists/teachers for continued study and reflection at home/school. At the conclusion of the entire day (9:00am-4:00pm), which includes Session One: Vocation, Scripture & Creedand Session Two: Methodology, parish catechists are certified in accordance with "Called to Be Disciples". Ongoing learning each year maintains certification.

To Register for the facilitated sessions: Go to www.virtusonline.org and choose "Registration," then highlight "Diocese of Richmond" from the drop down menu. Press SELECT. Fill in your information and submit. Choose the green arrow next to "I would like to attend…." Then select the training called "Protecting God’s Children for ADULTS" on date and place of.  There is no charge for this training. It is mandated by the USCCB Dallas Charter that all diocesan employees, clergy, religious, teachers, staff, and all volunteers who work with children or youth take this training in the coming year.  Questions: contact Deacon Mike Johnson at 479-9897.