Sponsored by the diocesan Department of Catechesis, the Art of Catechesis was created specifically for new and seasoned catechists and is available in both English and Spanish. All catechists are expected to be engaged in catechist formation and eventually obtain a Certificate in Catechesis.

After completing the course, catechists will be better able to prepare for each class more effectively; engage students in the learning and formation process; more confidently lead, guide, teach and inspire; know available resources for class planning, preparation and execution, and encourage, form and inform a catechist’s own life of faith.

“The Art of Catechesis” class is a total of six hours and offered in a variety of formats – one all-day session or three sessions that are two hours each. All classes are offered in parishes throughout the Diocese as well as virtual. Topics that are covered include “The Role of the Catechist;” “Sources and Methods for Catechesis,” and “Tools and Practice.”

Michelle Angelo, associate director of catechesis, said that to date, more than 300 catechists from the four-county Diocese have completed “The Art of Catechesis” since the program was launched in 2021.
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“We have received positive feedback from many who have taken this course,” she said. “Catechists said they felt inspired, gained essential ministry skills and were provided practical tips and resources that can be used in their classrooms. Many have said they wanted to continue learning and are now enrolled in the theology component toward receiving the Certificate in Catechesis.

The schedule of upcoming Art of Catechesis sessions include an in-person offering in Spanish July 8 from 6 to 9 p.m. and July 9 from 3 to 6 p.m. in St. Joseph Parish, 685 Hooper Ave., Toms River. Mass will be celebrated at 6:30 p.m. following the July 9 session.

A virtual offering of the program will be available in English Aug. 14, 21 and 28 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

For questions, contact Angelo at 609-403-7174 or [email protected].