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.
Catechist Recruitment
Calling Forth Catechists: Why People Volunteer
As you call forth vocations to catechesis, it’s good to know why people volunteer in the first place. Understanding why people volunteer makes it easier to identify and invite people to volunteer. Research shows that people volunteer for the following reasons. Achievement—to learn new skills, accomplish something worthwhile, increase self-esteem Challenge—to stretch themselves, discover gifts and talents Creativity—to express themselves creatively Independence—to undertake a task on their own (separate from spouse or family) Leadership—to develop personal leadership […]
Catechist Recruitment
Recruiting, Nay, Calling and Forming Catechists
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. […]
Catechist Recruitment
Calling Forth Catechists: Approaches
It’s important in your approach to calling people to serve as catechists to be positive! I’ve seen bulletin announcements that sound so desperate: “We are in dire need of catechists. We keep losing good catechists every year. Without catechists, we may have to cancel our religious education program!” Language like that makes it sound like you’re inviting someone to hop aboard a sinking ship. Present your program in a positive light, and describe the role […]
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!