Lifelong Formation
(It's not just what you know, but WHO you know!)
At the heart of catechesis we find, in essence, a Person, the Person of Jesus…Accordingly, the definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch
but in communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ: only He can lead us to the
love of the Father in the Spirit and make us share in the life of the Holy Trinity.
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 426; Catechesi Tradendae, 5)
After continued feedback from our catechists/teachers and catechetical leaders as well as long, prayerful consideration, the Archdiocese of New Orleans has moved away from a certification model to a lifelong formation model for catechists, which places the central emphasis upon discipleship and ongoing formation. This focus better engages catechists in their continuous formation as disciples of Jesus Christ and more effectively equips and enables them to form others as disciples.
What does this mean?
WHAT TO DO AFTER INITIAL FORMATION
Upon completion of Initial Formation (or an academic degree in Theology / Religious Education), all catechists and Catholic School administrators are expected to engage in Ongoing Formation each year - staying connected to the Vine (John 15).
If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please contact:
Mary Monette ([email protected])