What harvest am I speaking of? The harvest of new Catholics, that is!
In the period following the Easter Vigil, many RCIA leaders introduce their new Catholics to various parish ministries, including catechesis. I know of many catechists who began participating in this ministry shortly after going through RCIA.
Some of you veteran catechists may be invited to speak to the RCIA group about your vocation as a catechist. Some of you new Catholics may be considering a vocation as a catechist. Every year, the Holy Spirit provides a rich harvest of gifts!
We welcome these new gifts into the catechetical ministry and stand ready to assist and support in whatever way we veteran catechists can.
I’m a convert of 3 years and would like to become involved in faith formation. My parish is calling out for catechists now for the elementary grades so I am considering, but I really want to be involved with RCIA when the call comes for sign-ups for that. Do you think it’s possible I could do both or would that be too much for a “first timer” with no experience but a love for the faith? Thanks!
Gail, each individual is different but in general I’m always concerned about people stretching themselves too thin. Personally, I think it’s wiser to do one thing very then to take the chance of doing a couple of things only fairly well. It wouldn’t make any difference to me if you were a cradle Catholic. Converts often have more zeal that can motivate them to do great amounts of service. By the same token, they need to be careful not to overextend. Only you will really know how the Spirit is calling you. The RCIA is in need of dedicated catechists and if that is your first love, talk to someone at the parish about it. Whatever you do, know that the Spirit is guiding you and inspiring you and that all of our efforts are to give glory to God! Thanks so much for writing and let me know if I can be of any more help (if I have indeed been of help!).
Joe, Thanks for the advice. I will take that into consideration. Also, thank you for this website. I know it will be a great help to me in the future.
Gail, keep us informed about your decisions and how things are going!