I am a catechist because God called me. He wants me to be His instrument and to share His teachings with the children. He wants me to show the children the love He feels for us, and to teach how to love unconditionally, making Him our center of attention for everything that we do here on earth, working happily in our community.

I recently found an article that stated my reasons quite succinctly ” that they [Catechists] are called to something greater than conventional Christianity; that they have great freedom and opportunity in being called to radical discipleship with Christ. (America:The Jesuit Review, 2010)

This quote is so profound. Through the ministry of Catechesis I have assisted in forming and transforming young minds to be like Jesus Christ. Teaching and molding not only minds, but hearts and spirits to walk in the ways of our Savior. This is perhaps the greatest reason for becoming a Catechist.

It never crossed my mind to teach Religious Education.  I was at a church meeting and before it got started Father asked me to see him at the end of the meeting.  I said sure.  Through the meeting I remember thinking I hope I didn’t do anything wrong.  After the meeting Father said, “I need your help” and I said, “Sure, what can I do?”  He said, “I need you to teach Religious Education Confirmation class.”

I didn’t really start out as wanting to be a catechist.  I remember being in grade school, and thinking, “Why would anyone want to be a teacher?”

Fast forward to 1990 and I am driving and escorting my oldest daughter, Pauline, into Religious Ed to be an aide.  There was some commotion in the office, and I realized that a seasoned catechist was unable to fulfill her obligation due to a sudden illness.  There I was saying, “I could help out.  Do I need a teaching degree?”  I needed love for and a basic knowledge of my Catholic faith.  I had that.  How could I say No??