Fan the Flame -

       Inspiration through                       

        Religious

           Enrichment

 “The Spirit Comes to Enlighten the mind first of the one who receives Him, and then, through Him, the minds of others as well.”

-St. Cyril of Jerusalem, Doctor of Catechesis

1996-5

DIOCESE OF LAFAYETTE-IN-INDIANA

POLICY: FAITH DEVELOPMENT AND CERTIFICATION FOR CATECHISTS

Policy Statement:

Catechists - Paid and volunteer persons who direct or assist in the religious formation of young people and adults (e.g. religious education, teachers, school teachers, youth ministers, and OCIA team members) - are expected to work towards, receive and maintain diocesan catechist certification as defined in the diocesan regulations "Called to share a living, conscious and active faith" issued Catechetical Sunday, September 15, 1996.

The Pastoral Office for Formation and parishes share the responsibility to collaborate in providing leadership, time and funding for these formation opportunities.

Catechetical leaders (pastors, principals, coordinators/directors, youth ministers and OCIA directors) shall make this expectation and the resources provided known when they recruit, interview for employment, renew contracts, and/or organize ministries.

RATIONALE

In accord with Canon 780, the Bishop has a responsibility to see to it that catechists are properly prepared. "Called the share a living, conscious and active faith" was developed as a resource to enhance the partnership of the local church and parish (including schools) in the formation of catechists.

"Called to share and living, conscious and active faith" incorporates the preparation outline reflected in the National Catechetical Directory (NCD), 1979 (especially #32, #213) and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Adopted September 15, 1996 by Most Rev. William L. Higi, Bishop of Lafayette-in-Indiana

(A signed copy of the policy can be given from the Pastoral Office of Adult Catechesis)