Some of you may recall this short video I did last year to encourage people to become a catechist. I offer it once again for those who are considering becoming a catechist or as a recruitment tool for someone you’d like to see consider becoming a catechist.
About Joe Paprocki
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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 40 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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Recruiting and forming catechists is a primary responsibility for catechetical leaders and is an ongoing challenge. You’re not just looking for any warm body but for people with the gifts that enable them to apprentice others into the faith. With that in mind, I prefer to use the word calling instead of recruiting. We recruit people to perform a function. We call people to live out a vocation! Serving as a catechist is more than simple volunteerism. […]
I really enjoyed your presentation. I ‘ve always loved being a catechist . . . so everything you said in the video really touched my heart. I am praying about returning to this ministry. I appreciate your guidance and prayers. I can not thank you enough. I will share this with my church community. I will also pray for you.
Pat, thanks for your prayers and kind words. Glad our paths have crossed!
Thanks for offering this video. It is really a great encouragement! I am planning to show it at our first catechists’ meeting. Loved The toolbox, too! Gave one to every catechist!
Tina, I’m glad you found the video helpful. Good idea to show it to your catechists at their meeting. Ask them to add more “top reasons!” Thanks for the kind words about the Toolbox!