A Catechist, 61-Years Young

Joe Paprocki Teaching Skills

I mentioned yesterday the comment from a catechist (Fran) encouraging folks who are in their “golden years” to consider serving as catechists. Here is the latest from Fran:

Hi Joe,

I am going on 61 in October. I have no formal training to work with youth, but have always found a love for them and believe in their future. I feel, if I can help in any way, that is what we are here for. I am youth coordinator, at Our Lady of Grace, but find that all you need is a heart for kids. Kids are basically good and looking for direction.
God Bless!
Fran

I told Fran that parents have no formal training in parenting but, with love, figure out how to raise their kids properly. As catechists, we need not have a PhD in theology or psychology to succeed (although we certainly need formation and “basic” training in catechesis) but, with love, common sense, and help from our colleagues, we can help young people embrace the Catholic way of life.

Thanks, Fran.

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About Joe Paprocki 2744 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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