This Sunday, the Catholic Church celebrates Catechetical Sunday. The theme this year is: “Always be ready to give an explanation…for a reason for your hope.” (1 Pet: 3:15) The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops stated, “The 2025 theme encourages us to be prepared to share the basis of our faith, the Lord, and the hope He provides. In the same manner Saint Peter encouraged the believers of his time, the scripture reminds us that sharing should be done with gentleness and respect.”
We have been blessed at Saint Brigid with many dedicated catechists who teach our faith to children and adults. They generously give of their time and talent to serve the needs of our people. Their enthusiasm and passion are greatly appreciated. They truly help others grow in their knowledge and understanding of the faith. Some catechists teach at various times of the week and to a variety of groups of the faithful.
Our late Holy Father, Pope Francis, had a great appreciation for catechists. As previously reported by the media outlet, “Catholic News Agency”, reporter Courtney Mares noted that “Pope Francis stated that catechists have the vital responsibility of leading others to a personal encounter with Jesus through prayer, the sacraments, and Scripture.” She further noted that Pope Francis “told catechetical leaders that a catechist is a Christian who remembers that the important thing is …to talk about God, about His love and fidelity.” Shortly before his death, Pope Francis had instituted a formal ministry for catechists which enhances the importance and credibility of their role in teaching the faith.
The following prayer called “A Prayer to Seek Divine Guidance as a Catechist”, from the media outlet “Just One More Prayer”, expresses thanksgiving for the privilege to serve as a catechist:
Dear God,
As I embark on this journey as a catechist,
I humbly come before You seeking Your divine guidance and wisdom.
Help me to lead others closer to You with grace and humility.
May Your light shine brightly through me as I teach and inspire those in my care.
I ask for your strength and presence to be with me every step of the way.
Thank you, Lord, for entrusting me with this important role in Your kingdom.
Amen.
As we reflect on this prayer, we are encouraged to thank those catechists, with whom we interact, for all they do to build up the Kingdom of God. They are truly a blessing to our faith community.