By EMMALEE ITALIA
Contributing Editor
About 65 catechists took part in the Art of Catechesis in Spanish July 8-9 in St. Joseph Parish, Toms River. Hailing from nine parishes, the attendees were able to gather for mutual support and to receive encouragement in their essential ministry.
The Art of Catechesis is the methodology course used by the Diocese of Trenton that is a precursor to earning a Certificate in Catechesis. This two-day course was taught by Father Neiser Cardenas, parochial vicar in St. Joseph Parish; Josue Arriola, director of the diocesan Department of Evangelization and Family Life, and Mary Esther Wyman, catechist and St. Joseph parishioner.
Mary Esther Wyman is ready to welcome Art of Catechesis attendees. Courtesy photo
“There was so much excitement and enthusiasm over the six-hour course,” said Michelle Angelo-Santoro, diocesan associate director of catechesis. “Participants learned about the role of the catechist, the sources and methods used in catechesis, and were given practical tips and ideas they can implement in their classrooms.”
The group also enjoyed opportunities for small and large group discussions and fellowship. The course concluded with the celebration of Mass including a blessing upon the catechists.
New catechist Dayline Alberto from St. Paul Parish, Princeton, said “I loved the experience in teaching! It was completely new to me. They actually used some techniques on us – it wasn’t just a lecture.” She appreciated learning “the way we should speak to children and adults in the class, and how to connect the activities to our lesson.”
Art of Catechesis participants watch one of the presentations in Donovan Catholic High School, Toms River. Courtesy photo
Angels Mendoza, parishioner in Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Lakewood, found her impression was much more than she expected, learning more about things she thought she knew already.
“The truth is that from those two days I learned many interesting things that I will be able to use with my children,” she said. “I plan to choose pre-Communion class – they are little, so they need more attention, understanding, and [to have everything] explained in detail. There I will apply a lot of what the Kerygma is … I clearly understood what it really means to be a catechist.”