RCLBenziger.com

(Click here for a list of previous articles to read.)

Looking Back … and Looking Ahead
by Kate Ristow

This is an especially hectic time for catechetical leaders. In addition to end-of-the-year activities being in full swing, now is the time when we also evaluate the current year and plan for the next. A DRE colleague of mine described the busyness of May and June best when she said, “I’m meeting myself coming and going!”

Evaluation takes place at different levels. Students can complete questionnaires during their last session or we can mail evaluation forms to families. Catechists can assess their experiences through written surveys, a gathering in which they voice their opinions about the year, or a one-on-one meeting with the DRE. Whatever the process, the purpose of looking back at the year is to determine what went well, what can be improved, and what needs to be changed. After catechists gather information, evaluation evolves into decision making—both large and small. You don’t have to react to every suggestion you get as a result of your evaluation—too many changes at once can create chaos in any program. However, there are two major areas that we need to focus on as we evaluate and plan.

Textbook Selection
On average, parishes change textbooks every three to five years. Changing your religion series has much wider implications than other minor decisions as a result of your evaluation and planning. You need to determine why the current series is no longer effective for the students and/or the catechists. A committee may need to be formed to review samples of newer programs. Tools provided by the diocesan office and publishers can be used to evaluate the content of student texts, the support provided in catechist guides, and other important considerations such as family involvement, assessment options, technology that provides on-line resources, and cost. As you evaluate different series and then make your final decision, you need to plan how to introduce and implement new texts in the fall and how the publisher you choose will help you with the transition.

Catechist Evaluation and Recruitment
Effective DREs usually know long before the end of the year which catechists they hope will return in September. Catechists often decide to teach again because of the support and formation they have received throughout the year. Providing regular on-site training for catechists helps them feel confident and capable about their work with students. It is crucial for catechists to feel valued—and not just at the end of the year, when your positive comments might be misconstrued as a recruitment ploy.

On the other hand, catechists have to make personal decisions about committing another year to sharing their faith. DREs need to encourage catechists to return—not just by having them complete a form, but by extending a personal invitation. An invitation helps catechists recognize the vital role they have in continuing Christ’s work. They need to see that this is a mission to which they are called.

As you spend time in the next few weeks looking ahead and looking back, remember to celebrate the contributions you have made in your parish this year. Let the words of John Henry Cardinal Newman resound in your heart, knowing that you do make a difference:

God has created me to do him some definite service.
I am a link in a chain, a bond of connection between persons.
I shall do good.
I shall do God’s work.

Adult Formation
The Faith Connection®

Whole Community Catechesis
Online Resource

Sacrament Preparation
Eucharist and Reconciliation

If you would like to receive this newsletter through email,
click here.

Who We Are | Catechetical Newsletter | Sales Team | Review Materials
How to Order | Contact Us | Site Map
Home | Shop Online | www.FaithFirst.com

Resources for Christian Living

Please read the legal restrictions and terms of use applicable to this site.
Use of this site signifies your agreement to the terms of use.
©2007 RCL Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.

Resources for Christian Living