The Essential Attributes of a Catechist
Definition of a Catechist
Catechists are called to share their faith, give witness, pray, model service, and build community. Catechists minister to adults, youth, and children in a variety of locations and programs such as Sacramental Preparation, RCIA, Family Programs, Scripture Study, and more. Through Word and example, catechists hand on the Catholic faith and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The vocation of the Catechist
The General Directory for Catechesis tells us that catechists have a vocation…a calling from the Lord rooted in Baptism to carry out His mandate to proclaim the Gospel. And furthermore, it states that “The Church awakens and discerns this divine vocation and confers the mission to catechize. The Lord Jesus invites men and women, in a special way, to follow him, teacher and formator of disciples.”
The Call to be a Catechist
The call and response to become a catechist are recognized in the local Church by the Bishop. The response to this call includes the willingness to give one’s time and talent, not only to catechizing others but to one’s own growth and understanding of the faith. The call to this ministry often comes through the pastor, catechetical leader, youth minister, pastoral associate, or another catechist.
Qualities of a Catechist
Catechists must possess and exhibit qualities or characteristics necessary to give credible witness to the Gospel. A catechist must: be a model of Catholic Christian faith and lifestyle; participate in the spiritual, theological, and methodological training and formation... know and abide by the parish and/or diocesan guidelines and policies promoting effective catechesis; and give sufficient preparation time for the catechetical task.
The New or Transferring Catechist Agreement:
Every Catechist must agree to:
To be a catechist, we need you to: