Serving as a Catechist – "One of the Most Rewarding Things I Will Ever Do"

Joe Paprocki Joys and Frustrations
Here’s a wonderful e-mail from a 7th grade catechist who offers some very inspiring words about his vocation.
Sunrise on my wild path! by Denis Collette...!!!
"I...can see myself continuing on this path."
Hello Joe,
I stumbled across your website about a month ago when I was really searching for some inspiration for my next class. I am in my first year serving as a catechist for 7th graders. I’ve started out the way so many catechists probably do, teaching their own kids. My son is in 7th grade, thus, that is what I am teaching.
 
I’ve discovered that this is one of the most rewarding things I will ever do and can see myself continuing on this path!.
 
Anyway, I just wanted to send you a “thank you” note for the wonderful bits of information that you provide and I’m sure I will eventually have the nerve to put myself out there and make some contributions on the public comments section.
 
Keep up the great work and God bless you!
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About Joe Paprocki 2742 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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2 Comments

  1. Dear Joe,

    I wanted my pre Lenten class to be really meaningful.
    I wanted the children in my sixth grade class to be really prepared for this Holy Season. In listening to your FAQ’s on Lent coupled with the text book
    history and story….highlighting pertinent words on the board, we had the best and most meaningful discussion ever.

    When we go to Mass together on Ash Wednesday,
    I feel the children will be more engaged, informed and prayerfully ready
    for Lent in preparation for the most Glorious Celebration of our Christian
    faith ….the Joy of Christ’s RESURRECTION on Easter Sunday.

    Thank you for your help and guidance.
    May God’s Light continue to inspire you .

    Kathleen

    Reply

    • Kathleen, what wonderful news! I’m so glad that I can be of help. I hope you have a wonderful Lenten season and may you and your 6th graders continue to grow closer to our Lord! Peace.

      Reply

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