Affectionately nicknamed “CAT CHATs,” a rapidly growing diocesan program continues to provide formation of those who hand on the faith to adults and children.
CATechist CHATs, a series of webinars for catechists to learn about and discuss the methodology, formation and techniques of catechesis, was first initiated by the Diocese in October, 2023. Each session, organized around a predetermined theme, consists of a presentation by an expert in the subject, followed by time for catechists to discuss, connect and share ideas with one another.
The next CAT CHAT will be held Sept. 26 from 7 to 8 p.m. on the topic of “Building a Versatile Catechist Toolbox: Practical Tools and Strategies for Engaging, Assessing, and Inspiring Learners.” The session will be presented by Lisa Ann Limongello, the parish catechetical leader in St. Luke Parish, Toms River, and the parishes that comprise the Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley – St. James, Pennington; St. Alphonsus, Hopewell, and St. George, Titusville, as well as an instructor for the Diocese’s Certificate in Catechesis program. The presentation, open to all catechists of the Diocese, will explore practical resources as well as creative methods of assessment beyond tests or quizzes.
CAT CHAT, which is sponsored by the diocesan Department of Catechesis, grew out of feedback from local catechists expressing a desire for more methodology formation opportunities, as well as a space to connect and discuss with other catechists.
“They want to learn more of the skills, resources and strategies … that they can implement right away with their learners,” said Michelle Angelo-Santoro, associate director of catechesis.
CAT CHATs are primarily guided by the needs and interests of the catechists themselves. The diocesan website for CAT CHATs includes additional resources, as well as recordings of previous webinars.
Since last October, the CAT CHAT program has not only grown in registration numbers, but explored a wide variety of relevant topics and ideas, including Scripture, Theology of the Body, classroom engagement and the value of incorporating prayer into catechetical spaces. The program continues to expand, with four CAT CHATs scheduled for 2024, and the hope for the addition of Spanish CAT CHATs in 2025.
For the registration link and more information, visit dioceseoftrenton.org/catchats.