August 24, 2016 WBB For PCLs, WBB For Catechists, REL Topic- Prayer, REL Asset - Support Article, REL PD - Catechist, REL PD - Leaders, REL PD - Family Faith
By: Allie Johnston
Being an effective catechist requires constant prayer, and it is the responsibility of families and catechists to teach others to pray, through both example and instruction. The Catechists: On the Journey of Life with Prayer Support Article explores the importance of prayer for the catechist and the role of the catechist in teaching others to pray and providing prayer experiences in many forms.
Considering prayer and catechesis is especially timely this month as the Church prepares to celebrate Catechetical Sunday. Catechetical Sunday is an annual event in the Church that will be celebrated this year on September 18th. Catechetical Sunday both inspires and celebrates the important work of catechists. This year, Catechetical Sunday focuses on the theme “Prayer: The Faith Prayed.”
The Catechists: On the Journey of Life with Prayer Support Article reminds us that the General Directory for Catechesis states, "The baptized, moved always by the Spirit, nourished by the sacraments, by prayer and by the practice of charity, and assisted by multiple forms of ongoing education in the faith, seeks to realize the desire of Christ: 'Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.' This is the call to the fullness of perfection which is addressed to all the baptized." (GDC 56)
Download the Catechists: On the Journey of Life with Prayer Support Article to learn more about “the awesome vocation we share as catechists: to share the good news of Jesus with everyone, especially those most in need of his touch.” Written by a seasoned catechist, the article includes practical suggestions for implementation both in a religious education setting and at home for family use. The article also includes an inspiring prayer attributed to Saint Clement of Rome.
For additional prayer resources, explore the newly redesigned Resource Centers on the Sadlier Religion web site. Parish Catechetical Leaders and Principals can visit the Leadership Library, Catechists and Teachers the Catechist Café and families the Family Center. Within each center are a multitude of prayer resources including seasonal and everyday prayer cards, retreats and prayer services, and practices. Simply use the “prayer” filter and navigate from there to find a timely prayer resource, or search using keywords or desired content area.
Download the Catechists: On the Journey of Life with Prayer Support Article for immediate use and in preparation for Catechetical Sunday. Share it with new and veteran catechists and with all the families in your religious education program!