Catechists in Action – Steve Lascola the Storyteller

In this segment of Catechists in Action, 3rd grade catechist Steve Lascola tells the children the story of Zaccaheus as part of their preparation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Watch for the following as Steve:

  • asks for extra special attention
  • reads the story slowly, pausing to comment as he goes along
  • explains why Zacchaeus was not liked by others
  • invites the children to think about a time when they had a fight with a friend and what happens when you forgive – a new beginning
  • talks about how it feels when you are forgiven

Steve has a very nice rapport with the children and likes to read stories to them and children at that age love to be read to. I encouraged him to take advantage of his “grandfatherly” relationship with them and to tell stories as if he were reading them to his own grandchildren…with more feeling and drama. I can imagine him telling them that same story and having the same discussion with the children sitting on the floor around his feet as he sits in that wooden chair behind him. I think that would create an atmosphere the children would cherish…to have this nice man, their catechist, talking to them like they were family.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IWm6SuIaT8

About Joe Paprocki 2758 Articles
Joe Paprocki, DMin, is National Consultant for Faith Formation at Loyola Press, where, in addition to his traveling/speaking responsibilities, he works on the development team for faith formation curriculum resources including Finding God: Our Response to God’s Gifts and God’s Gift: Reconciliation and Eucharist. Joe has more than 35 years of experience in ministry and has presented keynotes, presentations, and workshops in more than 100 dioceses in North America. Joe is a frequent presenter at national conferences including the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress, the Mid-Atlantic Congress, and the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership. He is the author of numerous books, including the best seller The Catechist’s Toolbox, A Church on the Move, Under the Influence of Jesus, and Called to Be Catholic—a bilingual, foundational supplemental program that helps young people know their faith and grow in their relationship with God. Joe is also the series editor for the Effective Catechetical Leader and blogs about his experiences in faith formation at www.catechistsjourney.com.

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