John Gonzalez, Author at Catechist's Journey

About John Gonzalez

John Gonzalez, DMin, serves as the Director of Social Ministry for a parish on Long Island. John is also an adjunct professor at St. John’s University in Queens, NY, and a member of the Loyola Press Speakers Corps. John received his Doctorate of Ministry in Latino Studies from Fordham University and has a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies from the Catholic Theological Union at Chicago. John previously served as adjunct professor at Molloy College, special projects developer for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, and director of the justice, peace and the integrity of creation office for the Passionist community.

An Openness to the Word

John Gonzalez

The Church’s deepest nature is expressed in her three-fold responsibility: of proclaiming the word of God (kerygma-martyria), celebrating the sacraments (leitourgia), and exercising the ministry of charity (diakonia). These duties presuppose each other and are inseparable. (Deus Caritas Est, 25) I find this quote from Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI to be a powerful reminder of the intimate relationship between charity and the Word of God. Charity, he seems to remind us, is an expression of […]

Spirituality of the Catechist: Online Retreat for Catechists

The Magnificat and Devotion to Our Lady

John Gonzalez

This reflection is part of the Spirituality of the Catechist Online Retreat. The parish of Notre Dame in New Hyde Park, New York has a diverse Catholic community united in their strong devotion to the Virgin Mary. The original Italian community has organized two prayer groups devoted to Our Lady; the largest devotional group here is dedicated to Our Lady Queen of Peace. Our Lady of Guadalupe is certainly the most prominent cultural experience for […]