LEADING DRE | Support for Religious Education Leaders

serve breakfast. If your parish is Celebrate Catechetical a potluck type of place, ask par- ents to bring food. Or keep it sim- ple with bagels, donuts, juice, and Sunday coffee. Whatever you choose, Make plans for September 16, 2018 have something to gather all the catechists and their families to- DEANNA BARTALINI gether to thank them. he start to a new school year can be hectic with the Tokens of appreciation rush to put children in their appropriate classes, handle It’s always nice to give something late registrations, and maybe even find catechists. In to the catechists that reminds all this activity the Church reminds us how important them of the parish’s gratitude. Tcatechesis is with Catechetical Sunday, which began in 1935. The A planning calendar, such as the document Provido Sane Consilio, (On the Better Care for Catechetical Handbook Planner one from Catechist magazine, along with a Education), published by the Vatican in 1935, asked the Church to notebook and a new pen is both recognize the importance of the Church’s teaching ministry and practical and fun. those who serve in the ministry. In the United States the bishops Another gift idea is a Scripture set the third Sunday of September as Catechetical Sunday. This jar or bag. Pick verses that pertain to children, teaching, conversion, year, Catechetical Sunday is on September 16, with the theme and perseverance. Or, use our “Enlisting Witnesses for Christ.” suggested verses at CATmag.us/ ScriptureJar. Attach a note from the pastor as the tag and you’re How to celebrate all set. One year I invited the parish- Since we are first and foremost a ENLISTING ioners to pray for a catechist. I people of prayer, it is best if you WITNESSES put each catechist’s name (first begin your parish celebration at FOR name only) on a card and asked Mass. Resources for the liturgical JESUS parishioners to take one as they celebration of Catechetical Sunday CHRIST left Mass on Catechetical Sunday. can be found at USCCB.org. Select (Don’t forget to add your name!) one Mass and ask all the cate- You could also add each class or chists to come to it. Don’t forget to group to the cards. This reinforces include those who serve in youth the idea the everyone in the parish ministry, RCIA, and other adult has a part in catechesis — and you programs. During Mass the cele- have covered your work in prayer. brant can bless and commission No matter how you choose the catechists. After the blessing, Catechetical Sunday September 16, 2018 to celebrate and acknowledge UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS Copyright © 2018, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Image: The Crucifixion with the Virgin, Saint John, Saint , and Saint Mary Magdalene [middle panel], Pietro Perugino, of Art. if time permits, have children from To order publication no. 7-595 visit store.usccb.org or call 800-235-8722. those who serve as catechists, do the religious education program so with joy! give a prayer card to each catechist. catechists’ honor. This is your It is a great witness to the parish if opportunity to let them know the catechists come forward from how much you appreciate, need, DEANNA BARTALINI, M.Ed and wherever they are sitting and and admire them. Does your par- MPA, is a director of faith formation in stand where they can be seen. ish have a Knights of Columbus the Diocese of Palm Beach, Florida. After Mass, continue the cel- or Council of Catholic Women’s She is a writer and speaker. Visit

ebration with a breakfast in the group? Ask them to prepare and DeannaBartalini.com. CRUCIFIXION THE IMAGE: RESERVED. RIGHTS ALL DC. WASHINGTON, BISHOPS, CATHOLIC OF CONFERENCE STATES UNITED 2018, © COPYRIGHT ART. OF GALLERY NATIONAL PERUGINO, PIETRO PANEL], [MIDDLE MAGDALENE MARY SAINT AND JEROME, SAINT JOHN, SAINT VIRGIN, THE WITH

16 Catechist September 2018 This resource is provided courtesy of Catechist magazine and is used with permission. Subscribe at Catechist.com. DON’T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE!

This month you’ll find 3 great features on ways to improve Bible literacy, including a discussion guide on the new movie, Paul, Apostle of Christ. PLUS these departments: Effective Teaching takes students through lectio divina. Yes You Can begins a series about the Holy Spirit, based on the Acts of the Apostles. Catholic IQ offers two Bible-based quizzes. Crafts for Catechists has Scripture prompts for memorization. Digital Catechesis lists Bible apps and Instagram suggestions. Youth Ministry Chat shares tips for Bible rookies. The Domestic Church describes the Bible as a powerful TV alternative for families.

ORDER TODAY! Call 1-800-558-2292 or visit Catechist.com Mention code: S8C5 Catechist magazine supports the joyful and vital mission of catechists, directors of religious education, Catholic school religion teachers and catechetic leaders at churches, schools, and in homes. Catechist’s Award-Winning design helps you easily find articles for catechist formation, lessons and activities, and recommended resources!

Show appreciation to a devoted catechist, director of religious education, youth minister or Catholic-school religion teacher. Visit Catechist.com/Honors to complete the nomination form.

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