Greetings from Detroit where I’m spending the morning with the Detroit Society of Catechetical Leaders talking about A Well-Built Faith! Luckily I did not have to miss one of my Monday night sessions with my 8th graders since yesterday, March 1, was Casimir Pulaski Day in Illinois, a state holiday, so we had no class. This coming Sunday is Confirmation and for once, I have the opportunity to actually attend the Confirmation Mass to see my class receive the Sacrament. I’m looking forward to it!
Miscellaneous
Why the Title “Where Have You Gone, Thomas Groome?”
I had to chuckle at the follow-up email I received from Dr. Thomas Groome, asking why I chose to title my post, “Where Have You Gone, Thomas Groome?” I can understand why he might take exception to that title since he is still very much on the scene! The truth is, the title was intended to be provocative (you know how we bloggers are always trying to capture attention!) The question, “where have you gone, […]
Comings & Goings
Autumn in New York
New York is indeed beautiful in Autumn! I spent the last couple of days in the Dutchess/Ulster County area and the fall colors are already showing in such splendor, especially along the Taconic State Parkway. I did two Being, Knowing, and Doing professional development workshops for catechetical leaders in the region and had a very nice time visiting with these hard-working and dedicated folks. So here’s a SHOUT OUT to all the folks I met […]
Joe's Comings and Goings
Here’s My Presentation from L.A.
As promised, here is the pdf of the Powerpoint presentation (notes view pages) from my workshop in Los Angeles: “The Spirituality of the Catechist: Re-igniting the Flame.” LA – Spirituality of the Catechist Print Friendly
I just got home after spending the morning at this DSCL event. I really enjoyed this presentation and I walked away with more tools to help me in my ministry. Thank you so much. God Bless
Eileen, thanks! I had a wonderful time with you and the good folks of the Detroit Society of Catechetical Leaders!
Joe:
I attended your presentation with DSCL. You are a very good story teller! Your examples reminded me of my own experiences in sharing with other faith traditions, and reminded me of some wonderful experiences with the Muslim community in the metro Detroit area. We can all learn from one another.
I liked your handy four pillars explanation from the CCC and your H.E.L.P. from the Beatles. Way cool! It is a good discussion image to use with RCIA, children, or any folks who have questions about our Faith as Catholics.
I also appreciated your emphasis on using simplicity to teach Truth and your suggestions of creative ways to share our Catholic identity with parish culture and others outside of our own faith tradition.
Your reminder to all of us that, “prayer is our response to God’s attempt to get our attention” has given me some hope this Lent on my own journey as I encounter the Cross in a big way in my own life.
I picked up your Bible Blueprint book at the DSCL event, and I think it will be a real asset to me in parish ministry and in home schooling my four children.
Best wishes to you in your ministry in the windy city.
Michelle, thanks for your kind words. I remember chatting with you when the morning was over as well as the comments you shared about your experiences with the Muslim community. I really enjoyed my visit to Detroit and was especially aware of the fact that many folks there are struggling either because of the economy or the changes happening in the Diocese or both. It was a privilege to be a part of a strong, positive, and enriching event thanks to the DSCL. I wish you continued success in your ministry, especially in raising/home schooling your 4 children. May your Lenten journey continue to lead you to an ever deepening capacity to celebrate the Risen Christ as Easter!