This Sunday, the Catholic Church celebrates Catechetical Sunday. The theme this year is: “This is My Body Given for You.” The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops stated, “Catechetical Sunday is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the role that each person plays, by virtue of Baptism, in handing on the faith and being a witness to the Gospel.”
We have been blessed at Saint Brigid with many dedicated catechists who teach our faith to children and adults. They generously give 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. Many of our catechists face unique challenges in teaching, due primarily to the sustained impact of the COVID-19 virus.
Our Holy Father, Pope Francis has a great appreciation for catechists. As reported by the media outlet, “Catholic News Agency”, reporter Courtney Mares noted that Pope Francis stated:
“Catechists have the vital responsibility of leading others to a personal encounter with Jesus through prayer, the Sacraments, and Scripture…. and a catechist is a Christian who remembers that the important thing is to talk about God, about His love and fidelity.”
Pope Francis has also recently 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 FOR CATECHISTS”, from Loyola Press expresses thanksgiving for the privilege to serve as a catechist:
Loving God, Creator of all things, You call us to be in relationship with You and others.
Thank You for calling me to be a catechist, for the opportunity to share with others what You have given to me.
May all those with whom I share the gift of faith discover how You are present in all things.
May they come to know You, the one true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. May the grace of the Holy Spirit guide my heart and lips so that I may remain constant in loving and praising You.
May I be a witness to the Gospel and a minister of Your truth. May all my words and actions reflect Your love. 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.