a sower went out to so · 2013-03-20 · a vision for catechist formation in western and northern...

A Sower Went Out to Sow . . .

A Vision for Catechist Formation

In Western and Northern Canada

A Sower Went Out to Sow . . .

A Vision for Catechist Formation

In Western and Northern Canada

Developed by

The Western Catholic Conference of Bishops

and

The Western Conference of Catholic Religious Educators

Printed by St. Peter’s Press

Muenster, Sask. S0K 2Y0

ISBN: 1-896971-58-X

All rights reserved

July, 2005

Table of Contents

Part I: The Importance of Catechetical Ministry 1

Introduction 3

Sowing through the Ages 3

The Vision of the General Directory for Catechesis 4

The Tasks of Catechesis 4

Who Are Those to be Catechized? 5

Adult Catechesis as Organizing Principle 6

Catechesis of Children and Infants within the Family 6

Children of Catechetical Age 7

Youth and Young Adults 7

The Elderly 7

Special Catechetical Situations 7

Urban and Rural Settings 8

Who is the Catechist? 8

Part II: Current Initiatives in Catechist Formation in Western and Northern Canada 9

Background 11

Survey 11

Part III: Recommendations to Strengthen Catechist Formation

in Northern and Western Canada 13

Appendix A: A Pastoral Message on the New Urgency for Catechist Formation 18

Appendix B: A Group-Assisted Study Process for a Diocesan/Eparchial

or Parish Catechetical Leadership Team 19

Appendix C: Catechist Formation Proposal Approved by the Bishops 23

A Vision for Catechist Formation in Western and Northern Canada: W.C.C.O. / W.C.C.R.E.: 2005 1

Part I

The Importance of Catechetical Ministry

2 A Vision for Catechist Formation in Western and Northern Canada: W.C.C.O. / W.C.C.R.E.: 2005


Introduction Listen! Imagine a Sower going out to sow. Now it happened that, as the Sower sowed, some of the seed fell on the edge of the path . . . some seed fell on rocky ground . . . some seed fell into thorns . . . and some seeds fell into rich soil and, growing tall and strong, produced crop; and yielded thirty, sixty, even a hundredfold. Mk. 4: 3-9 As members of the Western Catholic Conference of Bishops, we have long been exploring together the topic of catechist formation in light of the vision expressed in the revised General Directory for Catechesis. Four years ago, we invited the Western Conference of Catholic Religious Educators (W.C.C.R.E.) to help us in our work. Our goal as a Bishops’ Conference is to help all of us recognize and celebrate the strong initiatives in catechist formation that are already in place across Western and Northern Canada. At the same time, we want to determine possible ways and means of renewing, strengthening and enhancing catechist formation opportunities across our region. Sowing Through the Ages The image of the Sower and the seed has captured the Catholic imagination for more than 2000 years. With generous heart and open hand, the Sower scatters seed extravagantly to all corners of the globe and down through time. In all climates, across all terrains, the Sower sows. Attentively and faithfully, the seeds are nurtured and tended and cared for. The Sower knows well the difficulties inherent in sowing seeds. Even more surely, the Sower understands the power to produce a harvest that lies deep within the heart of each and every seed. Patience is the hallmark of the Sower because the Sower is convinced that at the acceptable time, the harvest will come. Each one of us, members of Catholic Dioceses and Eparchies across Northern and Western Canada, recognizes the hand of the Sower – seeds scattered within our own hearts, our communities, our world; seeds planted in abundance, nurtured and tended and cared for. When asked, each one of us could name the seasons of sowing in our own lives from our earliest days until today. How important it is for us to acknowledge these fertile times, these hallowed times when the Sower’s work has been accomplished in us. Important too, is it for us personally and collectively, to hold in grateful memory, those persons who have cared for the seeds planted within us, who have nurtured, encouraged and inspired our growth by their personal mindfulness and witness. Participating with the Sower in the sowing and nurturing of the seeds of God’s Reign has been a fundamental task of the Church’s mission in every generation. In this time, we, the adult members of the Catholic community across Western and Northern Canada hold the privilege and responsibility of responding to this mandate. As the Bishops of Northern and Western Canada, we want to invite all of us to celebrate the many and varied initiatives that are currently in place across our region. As well, we would invite all of us to take this opportunity to explore possible ways and means of renewing, strengthening and enhancing our efforts in the work of sowing seeds – the evangelizing activity of the Church and more specifically – catechesis.


The Vision of the General Directory for Catechesis To guide us in our efforts, we want to ground ourselves within the vision of the General Directory for Catechesis which was revised in 1997 by the Congregation for the Clergy in Rome. The object of the General Directory for Catechesis is, “ to provide those fundamental theologico-pastoral principles drawn from the Church’s Magesterium, particularly those inspired by the Second Vatican Council, which are capable of better orienting and coordinating the pastoral activity of the ministry of the word and, concretely, catechesis. The basic intention of the Directory is that of offering reflections and principles rather than immediate applications or practical directives.” (G.D.C. # 9) Among other things, the General Directory for Catechesis provides us with a comprehensive vision of the nature, object and duties of catechesis. It also highlights those to be catechized and catechesis for special situations. The Tasks of Catechesis Catechesis is an essentially ecclesial act. Animated by the Holy Spirit, the Church is sent to be the teacher of the faith that she herself treasures, lives and celebrates. “The definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch, but also in communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ.” (G.D.C.#80) Beginning with a person’s initial conversion to the Lord, catechesis seeks to deepen this initial adherence by unfolding the mystery of Jesus: his proclamation of the Reign of God and the requirements of the Gospel message for a life of discipleship. The accomplishment of this definitive aim of catechesis is realized through diverse, yet interrelated tasks:

• One of the fundamental tasks of catechesis is promoting knowledge of the faith. At the heart of our faith as Catholic Christians is a person: Jesus Christ. Catechesis must lead believers ever more deeply into their relationship with Jesus by introducing them to a knowledge of tradition and scripture. “ By deepening knowledge of the faith, catechesis nourishes not only the life of faith but equips it to explain itself to the world.” (G.D.C.#85)

• Catechesis provides liturgical education. It prepares members for full, conscious, and active participation in liturgical celebrations. Catechesis develops and deepens the believer’s capacity for prayer, for thanksgiving, for repentance, for praying with confidence.

• Catechesis is concerned with the moral formation of believers. Being a disciple implies acquiring the attitudes of Jesus and learning to walk in his ways. Catechesis nurtures a lived appreciation of the spirit of the Beatitudes and strengthens the desire and ability to live a life of Gospel witness.

• Catechesis leads believers ever more deeply into Jesus’ attitudes of prayer and contemplation. In the company of Jesus, the disciple gradually acquires the same sentiments with which he prayed: adoration, praise, thanksgiving, confidence, supplication and awe for God’s glory.

• Another task of catechesis is formation for community life. Catechesis explicitly forms believers to attitudes of simplicity and humility, solicitude for the least, particular care for the alienated, fraternal correction, common prayer and mutual forgiveness. It promotes openness to and appreciation of other Christian Churches and ecclesial communities by encouraging both knowledge of other traditions with which we have shared elements of faith and a true desire for unity.

• Catechesis equips believers with the formation necessary to live out their missionary mandate as disciples of Jesus in their family, social, cultural and professional lives. It enables them to assume


ecclesial service according to their vocation and training. Catechesis forms disciples in the evangelical attitudes that Jesus taught: to proclaim and to heal; to be poor and to be able to accept rejection; to trust in God and to expect no reward other than the joy of working to bring about God’s Reign. This aspect of catechesis also renders disciples capable of meaningful communication and dialogue with women and men of other religions.

The General Directory for Catechesis emphasizes that all of these tasks are integral to a sound catechesis. “ All of these tasks are necessary. …The maturation of the Christian life requires that it be cultivated in all its dimensions: knowledge of the faith, liturgical education, moral formation, prayer, belonging to community, missionary spirit. When catechesis omits one of these elements, the Christian faith does not attain full development.” (G.D.C. #87) Who Are Those to be Catechized? The General Directory for Catechesis sees the adult baptismal catechumenate as the inspiration for all catechesis. With this reference, the directory notes that all catechesis is formational, is aimed at personal conversion and full participation in the Church’s sacramental life, involves the entire life of the parish and is ongoing. It is not a once-in-a-lifetime event. “Post-baptismal catechesis, without slavishly imitating the structure of the baptismal catechumenate, and recognizing in those to be catechized the reality of their Baptism does well, however, to draw inspiration from this ‘ preparatory school for the Christian life’ and to allow itself to be enriched by those principal elements which characterize the catechumenate.”(G.D.C.#91) Who are the persons and groups and what are the special situations where catechesis is needed? We look first to Jesus who made himself a catechist of the Reign of God for all categories of persons, great and small, rich and poor, healthy and sick, women and men, near and far, individuals and groups. His mandate has become our mandate. All the baptized because they are called by God to maturity of faith need and have the right to suitable catechesis. The recipient of catechesis is the whole Christian community and every person in it. The catechesis offered must always be adapted to the needs, circumstances and developmental readiness of those involved. We also need to remember that those to be catechized are, “ concrete and historical persons, rooted in a given situation and always influenced by pedagogical, social, cultural and religious conditioning…In the catechetical process, the recipient must be an active subject, conscious and co-responsible, and not merely a silent and passive recipient.” (G.D.C. #167) Adult Catechesis as Organizing Principle In considering those to be catechized, this revised General Directory for Catechesis invites us to shift our focus to adult catechesis as our starting point and as the organizing principle for all other forms of catechesis. “ The various stages in the journey of faith must be prudently integrated, with care that successive phases of catechesis harmoniously complete catechesis received in childhood. Hence it is pedagogically useful to make reference to adult catechesis and, in that light, orientate catechesis for other times of life.”(G.D.C.#171) Adults to whom catechesis is directed are:

• adult Christians who consistently live their faith option and desire to deepen it; • adults who have been baptized but who have not been sufficiently catechized; • non-baptized adults, to whom the catechumenate truly and properly corresponds;


• adults who come from Christian confessions which are not in full communion with the Catholic Church.

Certain situations and circumstances require special forms of catechesis for adults: • traditional forms of catechesis adapted to the liturgical year or in the

extraordinary form of missions; • the ongoing catechesis of those who have a task of formation in the community; • catechesis for use in particularly significant events in life such as Marriage, the Baptism of children,

in sickness; • catechesis for special events and experiences such as beginning work, emigration, unemployment,

use of leisure time.

Catechesis of Children and Infants Within the Family The catechesis of infants and children has always been a major priority and of concern to us as a Catholic community and it continues to be so. Within the family context, we help our pre-school children to develop those human resources which provide a sound basis for the life of faith, a sense of trust, of freedom, of self-giving, of invocation and of joyful participation. “ The witness of Christian life given by parents in the family comes to children with tenderness and parental respect. Children thus perceive and joyously live the closeness of God and of Jesus made manifest by their parents in such a way that this first Christian experience frequently leaves decisive traces throughout life. This childhood religious awakening is irreplaceable… Indeed, family catechesis precedes… accompanies and enriches all forms of catechesis.” (G.D.C. # 226) Children of Catechetical Age Formal catechesis for children of catechetical age takes place in a variety of settings: within the family context with parents as the primary catechists; within parish-based groupings and in Catholic schools. For disadvantaged children who lack adequate religious support in the family, it is the responsibility of the Christian community to address this situation by providing generous, competent and realistic aid. Youth and Young Adults In general it is observed that the first victims of the spiritual and cultural crisis gripping the world are the young. This fact needs to stimulate us more than ever as Church to proclaim the Gospel to the world of youth with courage and creativity. Experience suggests that it is useful in catechesis to distinguish between pre-adolescence, adolescence and young adulthood. The religious situation of young people is very diverse and needs to be kept in mind. Some young people are not even baptized; others have yet to complete Christian initiation; others are experiencing serious crises of faith while yet others are moving toward making a decision of faith and need assistance. Generally, youth catechesis should be proposed in new ways which are open to the sensibilities and challenges of this age group. The Elderly Because we are an aging society, special care and attention needs to be paid to the catechetical needs of our older members. In some cases, our older members experience a sense of isolation and marginalization. It is our


responsibility to address the concerns and desires of our elders with regard to ongoing faith support. We, too, must call on their wisdom and their vast lived experience as disciples and as witnesses to the Gospel. Special Catechetical Situations When we consider catechesis for special situations, we want to include catechesis for those who live with physical and mental handicaps; those who are marginalized such as immigrants, refugees, the chronically ill, drug addicts, prisoners; those who require special programs such as workers, professionals, artists, scientists and university students. Urban and Rural Settings Very broadly, two major environments must be mentioned: rural and urban. Catechesis in a rural context will reflect the needs experienced in the country. Such needs are often linked with poverty, sometimes with fear but also rich in trust in life, a sense of solidarity, faith in God and fidelity to religious traditions. Urban catechesis must often deal with different realities and needs: a variety of social conditions, marginalization, stress, mobility, a sense of anonymity and loneliness. We have considered the importance of catechesis within the Church’s mission of evangelization today. We have reviewed the tasks of catechesis and the many and varied groupings of adults, children and youth for whom catechesis is needed. With this vital information as a backdrop we need to ask ourselves, “ Whom shall we send to respond to the catechetical needs of the adults, children and youth in our Eparchies and Dioceses?” Who is the Catechist? First and foremost, the ministry of the catechist is a vocation. The initiative comes from God. The catechist is one who responds to God’s call to accompany others in their journey of faith. The vocation of the catechist is precious indeed. Called by God and mandated by the Church, the catechist is sent to prepare the soil, to sow, to tend, to nurture the seeds of faith. “This personal call of Jesus Christ and its relationship to him are the true moving forces of catechetical activity.” (G.D.C. #231) Within the received mandate, the catechist sows the seed through a wholistic process of knowing, sharing, living and proclaiming the message. The catechist seeks to help bring to maturity the faith of those being catechized and to awaken within them their own call to witness. Inspired by this vocation, the catechist constantly seeks:

• to live a deep spirituality, based on faith in the Holy Spirit and on prayer; • to transmit the Gospel by adapting it to the particular culture, age and situation; • to acquire her/his own style of catechizing by adapting the general principles of catechetical

pedagogy to his/her own personality; • to use creativity and talent to cultivate the field of God in hope; • to develop patience and trust in God’s action and plan through all of this.

If the catechist is one who responds to the Divine initiative to accompany others in their journey of faith, how do we as Dioceses and Eparchies assist catechists in their ongoing journey of catechist formation? “ To


ensure the working of the catechetical ministry in a local Church, it is fundamental to have adequate pastoral care of catechists.”(G.D.C. #233)


Part II

Current Initiatives in Catechist Formation in Western and Northern Canada


Background

In order to situate ourselves within the context of current practice in catechist formation in Northern and Western Canada, a Survey was conducted by the Western Conference of Catholic Religious Educators (W.C.C.R.E.) in the Spring of 2002. Each Diocese/Eparchy in the West and North received this Survey with the express request that input be solicited from all Diocesan Personnel responsible for Catechist Formation. By involving as broad a spectrum of Catechetical leaders as possible, it was our hope that this Survey would reflect what Formation is available for catechists working with adults, children and youth in varied catechetical settings (paid and volunteer): Home, Parish, Catholic School, Youth Ministry, R.C.I.A., R.C.I.A. (adapted for children of catechetical age), Sacramental preparation etc. A high percentage of Dioceses/Eparchies submitted their responses to this Survey. The data we received confirmed what we knew to be true. Many positive initiatives in Catechist Formation are already being taken in Northern and Western Canada. For example, in some urban Dioceses, Certificate Programs are being offered for Initial Catechist Formation. These programs are organized systematically on a two or three year cycle. In more remote and geographically vast Dioceses, regional Initial Catechist Formation events are offered jointly for new Teacher-Catechists and Parish Catechists. Many aspects of what is presently happening in the area of Catechist Formation is faithful to the vision of the General Directory for Catechesis. Survey

A brief summary of the responses to this Survey serves to highlight this reality: • Catechist Formation opportunities are offered in a variety of ways depending upon the make-up of

the individual Diocese/Eparchy. Initiatives taken are creative yet rooted realistically within the particular Diocesan context.

• Fidelity to the catechumenal model in the planning of Catechist Formation events was apparent in several Survey responses.

• Many respondents considered the ongoing faith formation of the Catechist to be central to any Catechist Formation event.

• Several respondents reported that there was growing collaboration and teamwork among Personnel involved in various areas of catechesis in their Eparchy/Diocese.

• In many regions, Catechist Formation is being adapted to the culture of the Catechists involved. • Opportunities for personal needs-assessment and self-directed study in aspects of formation as

Catechists are being explored and developed. • There are large numbers of women and men involved in catechetical ministry. • In some Dioceses/Eparchies, computer technology, distance learning, video-conferencing are being

used as one effective means of Catechist Formation. • Efforts are being made to involve Catechists themselves in the development and design of Catechist

Formation opportunities. • Many Dioceses/Eparchies encourage Catechists to attend regional and national Catechist Formation

events: Conferences, Institutes, Summer courses. They make attendance possible through financial assistance.


• Initiatives in Catechist Formation are being critiqued and evaluated in an ongoing way in several Eparchies/Dioceses.

Indeed, there is much for us to recognize and to celebrate in the area of Catechist Formation in Northern and Western Canada. We affirm and thank the countless women and men across our region for living their vocation as Catechist with such zeal and steadfast attention. We are participating with the Sower in the field of God’s world… sowing and tending and nurturing.


Part III

Recommendations to Strengthen Catechist Formation in Northern and Western Canada


As we acknowledge and give thanks for what is, we also want to take steps to strengthen and to enhance our collective efforts in Catechist Formation. The Survey on current initiatives in Catechist Formation conducted by the W.C.C.R.E. also identified several weaknesses and gaps in our current practice. As member Bishops of the W.C.C.O. we asked the Western Conference of Catholic Religious Educators to prepare a proposal for us with recommendations that could strengthen and enhance Catechist Formation in Northern and Western Canada. Their submission identified fourteen areas which if attended to, would reinforce and intensify our collective efforts in Catechist Formation.

1. Greater Priority for Catechist Formation: Within our local Churches, many areas of concern demand our committed response. As a consequence, Catechist Formation is sometimes not considered a priority. We want to insist upon Catechist Formation as a priority and in a spirit of inter-diocesan collaboration, commit ourselves to these resolutions and the implementation of these recommendations.

2. The Ministry of the Catechist: Often, the ministry of the Catechist is not honoured and affirmed as it ought to be. To strengthen our current practice in Catechist Formation, we will take steps to recognize Catechists publicly through such initiatives as commissioning and other signs of appreciation. As well, we will undertake initiatives to increase the awareness of the vocation of the catechist and to develop methods of identifying possible catechist vocations and inviting people to participate in the catechetical ministry.

3. New Catechist Formation Initiatives: There is a need in our region to increase the number and development of Catechist Formation initiatives in a more comprehensive manner. Members of the W.C.C.R.E will include in their meetings a component for systematic sharing and dialogue around initiatives in Catechist Formation. Consideration could perhaps be given to the establishment of a Catechetical Institute for the preparation, formation and specialization of Catechists in Western and Northern Canada.

4. Evaluation of Existing Initiatives: How important it is to evaluate any initiatives we may have in place for Catechist Formation. As Eparchies/Dioceses we want to ensure that all our efforts in Catechist Formation are reflective of the vision and solid guidelines outlined in the General Directory for Catechesis. To assist us, the W.C.C.R.E. will develop an evaluative tool based on the directives of the General Directory for Catechesis that could be used by Dioceses/Eparchies to assess local Catechist Formation initiatives.

5. Systematic Efforts in Initial and Ongoing Catechist Formation: In light of the General Directory for Catechesis it is understood that immediate preparation, continuing formation and specialization are required for catechetical ministry. As the Church in Western and Northern Canada, we want to commit ourselves to more systematic efforts in initial and ongoing Catechist Formation. The W.C.C.R.E will explore various tools for catechetical formation that could be adapted to particular needs and develop a comprehensive resource of possible approaches, models and tools.

6. Diversity in Activity: In Northern and Western Canada, we are blessed with rich cultural diversity. We want to develop models that honour this cultural diversity. (e.g. reflect the northern reality, the reality of small rural parishes, Ukrainian and Latin rites)

7. Formation of Volunteers: Across our region, catechists are predominantly volunteers who offer both short and long term service. How can we provide additional support, care and attention to meet the


needs of volunteers for formation and for catechetical ministry? Approaches developed need to be creative and flexible to honour the life situations and responsibilities of these most valuable catechists.

8. Full Time Catechists: The General Directory for Catechesis strongly recommends that Dioceses/Eparchies employ a suitable number of full time Catechists who can devote their time intensely and in a more consistent way to the catechetical vocation. Full time Catechists are needed at all levels of catechesis: for adults, children and youth.

9. Catechists for Youth and Adults: The formation of Catechists to work with adults and youth is only beginning to emerge in Western and Northern Canada. As was noted earlier in this Pastoral Message, the revised General Directory for Catechesis invites us to shift our focus to adult catechesis as our starting point and as the organizing principle for all other forms of catechesis. We want to strive for a greater balance in the ratio of Catechists for adults and youth as compared to children. As the Church of Western and Northern Canada, we want to support formation opportunities already in existence for Catechists working with adults and youth. We want to increase these opportunities for formation and to include more systematically within them, the components that are unique to this ministry.

10. Assistance to Priests: The General Directory for Catechesis tells us that one of the roles of the Presbyterate with regard to Catechist Formation is, “ to promote and to discern vocations to the service of catechesis and to attend to their formation by giving the greatest attention to this duty.”(G.D.C.#225). To facilitate this important task, we suggest that Dioceses/Eparchies provide opportunities for Catechists and Coordinators to meet with priests and seminarians in a time of common sharing. (e.g. W.C.C.R.E. regional conference, Diocesan Pastoral Study Days and specialized meetings). The WCCRE would develop materials to assist the Presbyterate and other community leaders in this crucial leadership role.

11. Inclusion of Approved Canadian Materials: In Canada, there are catechetical resources, documents and statements developed and approved by the Canadian Catholic Conference of Bishops and those approved for the French Sector and Eastern Churches by appropriate Episcopal structures. These resources, documents and statements need to be included in the content of Catechist Formation. Those involved in the formation of Catechists will employ these resources and tools. The content of the General Directory for Catechesis will be inculturated as the primary document for Catechist Formation in Northern and Western Canada.

12. Means and Models for Catechist Formation: Because of the varied catechetical settings and situations in our region, models and approaches used for Catechist Formation need to be applied creatively and flexibly. There is a need to collaborate closely among ourselves as Dioceses/Eparchies so that information about Catechist Formation opportunities and approaches can be shared.

13. Supplementary Funding: Limited human and material resources, lack of facilities, geographical distances are aspects of the reality of the Church in Western and Northern Canada. In order to implement what we are convinced needs to happen to strengthen Catechist Formation in our region, we must find ways to increase the funding available for such initiatives.

14. Pastoral Planning: In order to strengthen Catechist Formation in our region, we encourage Eparchies/Dioceses to develop a pastoral plan of action based upon these recommendations. How shall we implement these recommendations in a realistic and systematic manner? The WCCRE would develop a process and instruments as a guide for assessment and for the development of these strategies, setting timelines for each stage.


Come With Me into the Fields The ministry of Catechesis…sowing seeds and nurturing seeds already sown. It takes a lifetime for the ultimate meaning of each seed to be realized. Growth happens in stages – sometimes slowly and almost imperceptibly; at other times in spurts and starts. Many factors influence a seed’s ability to grow, its hardiness, and its capacity to produce crop. Like the Sower, we too, need to prepare ourselves for the ministry of sowing seeds. As Dioceses/Eparchies, faith communities, parents, catechists we need to be cognizant of all that has a potential impact on the seeds that we sow…whether for good or for ill. With profound respect and with a keen sense of responsibility we go out to sow. Yet, like the Sower, it is always from an open hand and an extravagant heart that we scatter the seed entrusted to us.


Appendix A

A Pastoral Message on the New Urgency For Catechist Formation

Furthering the Conversation . . . . As Adult Members of Catholic Faith Communities in Western and Northern Canada, each one of us is involved in the ministry of evangelization…sowing seeds… catechesis. We invite all of us to further reflection and conversation on this vital topic of catechesis and the new urgency for Catechist Formation. As Individuals or in conversation over a cup of tea…

• Name the persons who have cared for the seeds planted within you. Who have inspired, encouraged and nurtured your growth by their personal mindfulness and witness?

• How are you involved in the sowing of seeds – the ministry of catechesis in your family, your faith community, your workplace?

• Who are the groups of persons in your faith community who have the opportunity for ongoing catechesis? Are you a member of one of these groups? How do you find these catechetical experiences?

• When you consider the tasks of catechesis, which area of formation is most important to you right now and why?

• If not formally involved at present in the ministry of catechesis, would you ever consider becoming a catechist to work with adults, children or youth in your faith community?

• What catechist formation initiatives in your local setting might encourage you to consider such a vocation?


Appendix B

A Group-Assisted Study Process for a Diocesan/Eparchial or Parish Catechetical Leadership Team…

As members of a Diocesan/Eparchial or Parish Catechetical Leadership Team, the formation of catechists in your local setting is of utmost importance to you. As the Bishops of Northern and Western Canada, we encourage you to explore and to discuss the content of this Pastoral Message on the New Urgency for Catechist Formation in light of your current practice. This Group Assisted Study Model could help you as you examine the content of this Pastoral Message and explore its implications for catechist formation within your local context. As a Catechetical Leadership Team, you may choose to spend a full day working through the various aspects of this Group Assisted Study. If preferable, however, it can be easily adapted to shorter periods of study done systematically over time. Preparation for Assisted Study Session:

(1) Prior to the initial study session, invite participants: a. to reflect upon the importance of catechetical ministry and their role as Catechists. b. to bring a symbol/image/scriptural reference that best expresses their appreciation of the role of

the Catechist. (2) Prepare copies of the Pastoral Message, “The New Urgency for Catechist Formation” for all

participants. (3) Determine who will facilitate/lead the study session/sessions.

Gathering Ritual: Begin with a reflective proclamation of the Parable of the Sower (Mark 4: 3-9). Invite participants to express their appreciation of the role of the Catechist by sharing the symbol/image/scriptural reference that they have prepared. Introduction: The Leader offers a brief explanation of the origin and development of the Pastoral Message, “ The New Urgency for Catechist Formation”. Copies of the Pastoral Message are distributed to participants. The Leader highlights the different headings throughout the Pastoral Message and explains that the assisted study process will be divided into three areas of focus:

1. The Tasks of Catechesis: Who, What, Where, When, How, Why? 2. Current Initiatives in Catechist Formation in Western and Northern Canada. 3. Recommendations to Strengthen Catechist Formation in Northern and Western Canada.

Focus I: The Tasks of Catechesis: Who, What, Where, When, How, Why?

• Depending upon the number of participants, invite individuals/groups to work on one of the following preliminary sections of the Pastoral Message:


1. The Tasks of Catechesis 2. Who are Those to be Catechized? 3. Who is the Catechist?

• Before turning to their section of choice from the Pastoral Message, invite participant to jot down what ideas they would consider to be important to include under their chosen topic. Invite members in each group to share among themselves what they had jotted down.

• Ask the small groups to turn to the section of the Pastoral Message that addresses their topic. Have them prepare to report to the large group on the content of the Pastoral Message on their topic and to describe how their own reflections relate to it. The following questions guide the discussion:

- What is in the Pastoral Message that we had already mentioned? - What is in the Pastoral Message that we did not mention? - What have we mentioned that is not in the Pastoral Message?

• Based on the above questions, each small group reports to the large group on its section of the Pastoral Message.

Focus II: Current Initiatives in Catechist Formation in Western and Northern Canada

• Ask participants to reflect personally upon the following two questions and to jot down their responses:

- As you consider the current reality of catechist formation within your local context, for what do you give thanks? What do you want to celebrate?

- What role does the vision of the General Directory for Catechesis play in the planning and implementation of catechist formation initiatives in your local setting?

• Invite participants to share their responses with one another in the large group. • Invite participants to read the section of the Pastoral Message, “Current Initiatives in Catechist

Formation in Western and Northern Canada”. The guiding questions from Focus I could be used to compare the content of the Pastoral Message with participants’ personal experiences and reflection.

- What is in the Pastoral Message that I had mentioned? - What is in the Pastoral Message that I did not mention? - What did I mention that is not in the Pastoral Message?

• Invite participants to share their reflections, insights with one another in the large group. Focus III: Recommendations to Strengthen Catechist Formation in Northern

and Western Canada. • This section of the Pastoral Message, “ The New Urgency for Catechist Formation” sets before all of

us, steps that need to be taken in order to strengthen and to enhance catechist formation initiatives in Western and Northern Canada. This Group Assisted Study will help us to begin an initial conversation about these recommendations. It will be essential, however, that Catechetical Leadership Teams in Dioceses/Eparchies/Parishes determine means of ongoing reflection and response to these recommendations.


• Depending upon the number of participants, these fourteen recommendations can be divided among individuals or small groups for initial exploration. The following questions will guide the reflection and discussion for each of the recommendations:

- How does this recommendation affirm us in what we know to be true about catechist formation and in our current practice?

- What challenge/s does this recommendation present to us in light of our current pratice of catechist formation?

- What action step/s could we take to strengthen this aspect of our current practice of catechist formation?

- What further reflection and discussion does this recommendation suggest to us? • Individuals/ Small Groups share their responses to the guiding questions with reference to the

recommendation that they have explored. • The Large Group prioritizes the fourteen recommendations according to the needs within their local

context and chooses two or three recommendations as a place to begin. The Large Group establishes how it will proceed in its ongoing reflection and response to these chosen recommendations.

• In time, when the Large Group determines that these initially chosen recommendations have been addressed satisfactorily within their local context, one or two of the remaining recommendations could be chosen for further reflection and response. This approach could be repeated until all fourteen recommendations have been addressed.

• At various stages throughout the ensuing months, as different recommendations are chosen for reflection and response, participants could be invited to revisit the symbol/image/ scriptural reference they shared at the beginning of this Assisted Group Study. Nuances of meaning and new insights gained about the Role of the Catechist could be shared within a prayerful context.


Appendix C

Catechist Formation Proposal Approved by The Western Catholic Conference (W.C.C.O.) March, 2004

1. Greater Priority for Catechist Formation

Whereas the General Directory for Catechesis “advocates an intensification of catechetical activity in our times,” (GDC1 # 8) in order to realize the mission of the Church

Be it resolved that the formation of catechists become a greater priority in the Church in Western and Northern Canada.

Strategies: • attend to these resolutions and strategies in keeping with the local situation (GDC 14).

(dioceses/eparchies)

• invite the bishops of Western and Northern Canada to send a pastoral message to the priests, lay faithful, and catechetical leaders, expressing a new urgency for catechist formation (GDC 48). This message could be drafted by WCCRE. (WCCRE)

act on these resolutions and implement these strategies in a spirit of inter-diocesan collaboration, once they are adopted by the WCCO2. (dioceses/eparchies/WCCRE3)

2. The Ministry of the Catechist

Whereas the role of the catechist is fundamental to the mission of the Church

Be it resolved that we, the Church in Western and Northern Canada, honour the ministry of the catechist in a more visible way within the community so as to better “ensure the working of the catechetical ministry in a local church”. (GDC # 233)

Strategies: • take steps to recognize catechists publicly through such initiatives as mandating, commissioning,

and other signs of appreciation according to the particular diocesan/eparchial situation. (dioceses/eparchies)

• recommend the establishment of a catechetical Sunday. The date would be determined in dialogue with WCCO and the Episcopal Commission for Christian Education of CCCB4. (WCCRE)

1 General Directory for Catechesis (Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 1997) 2 Western Catholic Conference Ouest (Bishops of Western and Northern Canada) 3 Western Conference of Catholic Religious Educators (Catechetical Organization for Western and Northern Canada) 4 Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (National organization of Catholic bishops in Canada)


Be it resolved that we, the Church in Western and Northern Canada, also work toward an increased awareness of the vocation, role and person of the catechist. (GDC 231)

Strategies: undertake initiatives to increase the awareness of the vocation of the catechist in high schools, lay

formation programs, lay enrichment programs, seminaries, theological colleges, universities, and other institutions. (dioceses/eparchies)

include in all levels of catechist formation a component on the vocation, person, and role of the catechist. (dioceses/eparchies)

develop different ways of promoting the ministry of catechesis, of identifying possible catechist vocations and of inviting people to participate in the catechetical ministry. (dioceses/eparchies/ parishes)

3. New Catechist Formation Initiatives

Whereas there is a need for strengthening catechist formation, given the direction of the General Directory for Catechesis and the current situation of Western and Northern Canada

Be it resolved that initiatives in the area of catechist formation be increased and developed in these regions.

Strategies: include in WCCRE meetings a component for systematic sharing and dialogue around initiatives in

catechist formation.

establish a catechetical institute(s) for the preparation, formation and specialization of catechists in Western and Northern Canada to meet common needs and prepare the necessary tools for such programs. This institute could include venues that are moveable and/or permanent. (WCCRE)

recognize that the WCCRE conference is a means of catechist formation. (dioceses/eparchies)

4. Evaluation of Existing Initiatives

Whereas there is currently a wide variety of initiatives in catechist formation across Western and Northern Canada, there is no unified approach that is inclusive of the guidelines of the General Directory of Catechesis

Be it resolved that dioceses and eparchies evaluate initiatives in catechist formation in keeping with the guidelines of the General Directory for Catechesis in order to unify catechist formation initiatives across Western and Northern Canada.

Strategies:


develop an evaluative tool based on the directives of the GDC that could be used by dioceses/eparchies to assess local catechist formation initiatives. (WCCRE).

assess existing efforts in networking for catechist formation. (GDC #279) (dioceses/eparchies/WCCRE)

5. Systematic Efforts in Initial and On-going Catechist Formation

Whereas it is understood that immediate preparation, continuing formation and specialization are required for catechetical ministry

Be it resolved that the Church in Western and Northern Canada commit itself to more systematic efforts in initial and ongoing catechist formation.

Strategies: develop an overall plan for systematic and comprehensive catechist formation with common

standards based on the needs at various levels (basic, intermediate, advanced, ongoing, specialized). (GDC Part V) (WCCRE)

explore various tools for catechetical formation, adapting these to particular needs (dioceses/eparchies/WCCRE).

develop a comprehensive resource of possible approaches, models and tools for systematic and comprehensive catechist formation. This resource would be periodically updated (WCCRE).

6. Diversity in Activity

Whereas our Western and Northern reality reflects a variety of cultures, languages and rites

Be it resolved that the catechist formation process honour this diversity.

Strategies: engage in a process of cultural analysis of the person being catechized so as to discern the

implications for catechist formation. (GDC 203) (dioceses/eparchies)

develop models that honour cultural diversity (e.g. reflect the northern reality, the reality of small rural parishes, …). (dioceses/eparchies/WCCRE)

7. Formation of Volunteers

Whereas the catechists in Western and Northern Canada are predominantly volunteers who offer both short and long term service

Be it resolved that additional support, care and attention be provided to meet the needs of volunteers for formation and for catechetical ministry.


Strategies: explore flexible and creative approaches for the formation of volunteer catechists (WCCRE).

invite dioceses/eparchies to establish and to use a mentorship process with new volunteer catechists. (dioceses/eparchies)

offer effective and ongoing support and affirmation for volunteer catechists. (dioceses/eparchies/parishes)

8. Full Time Catechists

Whereas the working of the catechetical ministry in the local church is fundamental

Be it resolved that efforts be made “… to provide a certain number of full time catechists so that these can devote their time intensely and in a more stable way to catechesis, in addition to fostering part-time catechists who are likely to be more numerous in the ordinary course of events”; and to foster “animators of catechetical activity with responsibility at diocesan [and eparchial] level, in regions and in parishes [and schools]”. (GDC 233)

Strategies: ensure that each diocese/eparchy, Parish, and Catholic school, employ qualified personnel

responsible for catechesis at all levels. The number and qualifications would be determined by the needs and resources of the particular church. (dioceses/eparchies)

develop descriptions of the role and responsibilities of full time and part time permanent catechists. (WCCRE)

develop models for collaboration and sharing of human resources in catechetical ministry. (WCCRE)

9. Catechists for Youth and Adults

Whereas in Western and Northern Canada the formation of catechists to work with youth and adults is only beginning to emerge

Be it resolved that efforts be initiated and strengthened in the formation of catechists to work with youth and adults. (GDC # 233)

Strategies: strive for a greater balance in the ratio of catechists for youth and adults as compared to catechists

for children. Encouragement to do this could be included in the proposed Bishops’ pastoral message. (dioceses/eparchies)


include more systematically in the formation of catechists for youth and adults the components that are unique to their ministry (processes, strategies ...). (ACCC5 #70 – 85, and GDC Part V, Chapter 2) (dioceses/eparchies)

support formation opportunities already in existence. (dioceses/eparchies)

strengthen the catechetical formation of those who work with youth (e.g.: teachers in schools, youth ministry coordinators, chaplains, campus ministry personnel, …). (dioceses/eparchies)

10. Assistance to Priests

Whereas the General Directory for Catechesis highlights the catechetical task proper to the presbyterate

Be it resolved that the diocesan and eparchial catechetical office assist “priests, pastors and educators of the Christian community” to “discern vocations to the service of catechesis” in their parish/mission and “attend to their formation.” (GDC # 224, 225)

Strategies: provide opportunities for catechists and coordinators to meet with priests and seminarians in a time

of common sharing (e.g. WCCRE regional conference, diocesan pastoral study days, as well as specialized meetings for priests and seminarians). (dioceses/eparchies)

recommend that the orientation and formation of seminarians, and of priests coming to a diocese from other countries include a component on catechesis. (dioceses/eparchies)

develop materials that would assist the presbyterate and other community leaders in discerning catechist vocations and in assuming their leadership role of discovering, encouraging and fostering such vocations, and of attending to their formation (WCCRE).

11. Inclusion of Approved Canadian Materials

Whereas in Canada there are catechetical resources, documents and statements developed and approved by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and those approved for the French Sector and Eastern Churches by appropriate Episcopal structures

Be it resolved that these resources, documents and statements be included in the content of catechist formation programs.

Strategies: inculturate the content of the General Directory of Catechesis as the primary document for catechist

formation in Western and Northern Canada. (dioceses/eparchies)

integrate at all levels of catechist formation programs Canadian documents, resources and tools (e.g.: BOSS6, WAST7…) by ensuring that those involved in the formation of catechists are employing these resources and tools. (dioceses/eparchies)

5 ACCC: Adult Catechesis in the Christian Community (Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 1990) 6 Born of the Spirit Series (Publication Services, Ottawa, 1994 and following)


ensure that catechist formation takes place within the context of these Canadian documents, resources and tools. (dioceses/eparchies)

12. Means and Models for Catechist Formation

Whereas there is a need for more adequate means to provide catechist formation

Be it resolved that flexibility and creativity in models and approaches be applied to the formation of catechists.

Strategies: identify and assess some models and approaches already in use within Western and Northern Canada

and elsewhere. (WCCRE)

Be it resolved that ways and means of inter-diocesan and eparchial collaboration in catechist formation in Western and Northern Canada be developed. (GDC # 268)

Strategies: work in collaboration with one another, sharing information about catechist formation opportunities

among dioceses/eparchies. (WCCRE)

13. Supplementary Funding

Whereas in many dioceses and eparchies geographical distances, limited human and material resources, limited facilities and the need for new catechetical formation initiatives are a major factors

Be it resolved that supplementary financial resources be made available for efforts in catechist formation in Western and Northern Canada. (GDC # 223)

Strategies: prepare a budget to implement these resolutions and explore various sources of funding. (WCCRE)

strongly encourage dioceses to consider budgetary increases in order to implement these strategies on a local level. (dioceses/eparchies)

increase the WCCRE diocesan membership fee. (WCCRE)

14. Pastoral Planning

Whereas pastoral planning is an essential activity in the life of the Church

Be it resolved that each diocese and eparchy develop a pastoral plan of action for strengthening catechist formation, reflecting these recommendations. (GDC # 281)

Strategies: develop a process and instruments as a guide for dioceses/eparchies in the assessment and

development of these strategies, setting timelines for each stage. (WCCRE) 7 We Are Strong Together (Publication Services, Ottawa, 1994 and following)


recommend that each diocese/eparchy develop and put into place a pastoral plan for providing comprehensive and systematic catechist formation, based on the implementation of these resolutions. (dioceses/eparchies)

recommend, in light of the GDC and in light of the resolutions, that dioceses set a time-line for implementing these strategies, and thus for strengthening catechist formation. (dioceses/eparchies)

a sower went out to so · 2013-03-20 · a vision for catechist formation in western and northern...

Documents