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!
Books
I’m Just Getting Warmed Up!
Yesterday, I told you about my new book, Beyond the Catechist’s Toolbox, which you can pre-order (available February, 2013). Well, I’m just gettin’ warmed up!!! I’ve got lots more to tell you about. I’ve been a busy little catechist and writer this year and I’m happy to share with you 2 new resources that I am very proud of and that will help to meet a pressing need in catechesis (catechizing children who are “out […]
Junior High
Confirmation Scavenger Hunt
I read an article about researchers who analyzed data from hundreds of novels. They discovered that there are only six basic story types. I found this quite liberating; as a writer, I can have fun mixing the types of stories to create something new. I sometimes take a similar approach to my catechetical ministry and mix some ideas that were shared here at Catechist’s Journey. This past spring, I did that while hosting a virtual […]
Liturgy and Sacraments
Apprenticeships Instead of Service Projects
I recently received this comment from Jared Anderson about something creative and outstanding he is doing with his Confirmation program: The way that we incorporate Mission into our Confirmation program is that I require the candidates to do 4 month long Apprenticeships in an already existing Parish Ministry. There are 12 ministries (including myself as Director of Confirmation and Youth Ministries) that provide an adult mentor to provide ministry-specific formation and opportunities to get their […]
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!