Catechists

Program:  HSYM (High School Youth Ministry) serves as the Faith Development program for youth in grades 9-12.  It is divided into two (2) parts – Confirmation Preparation (9th and 10th grade/Sac Prep), and WIRED! (11th & 12th grade).

Program Objective:  to create and nourish disciples of Christ; to help youth respond to God in faith and prayer; to help youth develop their Christian identity and personal faith through their Catholic values and demonstrated behavior.

Catechist Objective:  to present the convictions and values of the Catholic Christian tradition and to invite the youth to adopt their own convictions and values based on these teachings.

Catechist Tasks:

• Plan lessons for the Sunday evening sessions with co-catechists, implementing the provided curriculum from the Office of Youth Ministry (OYM)
• Obtain materials, resources, and curriculum from the OYM & Director of Youth Ministry
• Take attendance at each session
• Report progress/concerns for Sunday evening sessions to Director of Youth Ministry
• Assist with large groups “Issue Nights” and prayer services
• Participate in social activities, service projects, and retreats/trips as schedule allows
• Work toward relational ministry by occasionally contacting youth outside of evening sessions

Qualities Needed:

• Willingness and ability to implement the provided curriculum
• Willingness and ability to speak with conviction about his/her own faith experience and convictions as a Catholic Christian
• Willingness and ability to present the teachings of our Catholic faith in a truthful and unbiased manner
• Ability to lead a group discussion and conduct faith sharing activities as provided in the curriculum
• Understanding of the content of the faith theme
• Attends Mass weekly and participates in parish events and activities
• Willingness to attend parish, deanery, and diocesan formation days and other training sessions offered by the youth ministry office
• Ability to work collaboratively with other catechists and youth ministry staff

Time Commitment:

• Service from September 20 to May 1
• Teaching times:   SUNDAYS, 6:30PM-8:00PM (please arrive 15 minutes early)
• Preparation time:  minimum of one hour  per week
• Required Training & Support Sessions:  Catechist Workshop (September, 2016); catechist support meetings as scheduled throughout the service year. Participation in catechist certification programs is highly encouraged (more information to be provided later).