OLPH Catechists
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Go make disciples and teach them everything
that I have commanded you.Matthew 28:19-20
WHAT IS A CATECHIST?
The official teachings of the Church are called the Catechism of the Catholic Church. A catechist is a person of faith who leads others in understanding the faith teachings according to those official teachings.
The role of the catechist is a vital ministry to the Church. It is a gift that has tremendous value to the world community at large. Through the catechist’s word and action, the message of Christ continues to have a place in all human affairs.
WHAT DOES A CATECHIST DO?
The primary goal of a catechist is to model God’s love to others. As a result, the primary requisite of a catechist is a love for God and a love for children.
A catechist develops a lesson plan and uses that plan to teach in the classroom. By creating the lesson plan, the catechist ultimately designs and structures experiences for students that help them grow in their personal faith and spirituality. The catechist passes on to students a set of shared meanings and values that are Catholic and Christian. A catechist also initiates others into the faith community, into its life, its worship, symbols and practices.
ARE THERE TEACHING AND RESOURCE MATERIALS?
Our Lady of Perpetual Help provides teaching and resource materials. We will have an in-service before classes begin. Date TBA.
WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT?
We ask catechists to commit to teaching a class for an entire academic year. Our Lady of Perpetual Help's Religious Education Program begins in September and ends in April.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO VOLUNTEER IN THIS ROLE?
We are so blessed to have such an active and engaged community of parents, grandparents, and friends supporting our faith formation programs through volunteering. We welcome any person of faith who wishes to lead others to grow in faith and understanding the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This role is a vital ministry to the Church. It is a gift that has tremendous value to the world community at large. Through the catechist’s word and action, the message of Christ continues to have a place in all human affairs.
SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church is committed to providing a safe environment for all our parishioners, especially our children. Therefore, all parish programs abide by the Safe Environment: Protecting God’s Children policies put forth by the U.S. Bishops. All volunteers (18+) who have regular, ongoing interaction with children are obligated to complete Virtus training through the Archdiocese of San Antonio and complete a background check. Visit the archdiocesan website for more information. Youth 16 years and older may volunteer their time and talent when accompanied by an adult. Youth under the age of 16 may volunteer when accompanied by a parent/guardian.
Criminal Background Check Form
Virtus Online Website to complete the Safe Environment Trainings