Whether you have a basic curiosity about what it's like to serve as a catechist, or you're ready to jump right in and answer God's call, we're thrilled to provide you with information you'll need to begin the process of becoming a catechist or an aide. We need many faithful adult volunteers for a successful Religious Education program.
Click here to complete a simple form to let us know you're interesting in serving as a catechist or aide, or just want to learn more.

Definition of a Catechist
A catechist is a person who facilitates the process of faith formation first by echoing the word of God in his or her own life and second by helping others to do so. “The catechist is a Christian who receives a particular calling from God that, when accepted in faith, empowers him/her for the service of the transmission of faith for the task of initiating others into the Christian life.” (DC112)

Responsibilities of St. Rose Catechists:

• Complete initial training or formation for the We Believe program from Sadlier Publishers
• Complete Virtus/Child Safety training
• Commit to teaching weekly 75-minute sessions from mid-September to mid-May
• Be open to ongoing formation provided by the parish or the Diocese of Camden

 
Effective Catechists have...

• a desire to grow in and share the Catholic faith
• an awareness of God’s grace and the desire to respond to that grace
• a commitment to the Church’s liturgical and sacramental life and moral teachings
• a strength of character built on patience, responsibility, confidence, and creativity
• a generosity of spirit, respect for diversity, and a habit of hospitality and inclusion
• a basic understanding of Catholic teaching, Scripture, and Catholic Tradition
• honest and caring relationships with the age group being served
• a willingness to learn and share effective teaching techniques and strategies 

 
Top 10 Reasons to be a Catechist 
 

1. Deepen your faith: You'll grow in your own understanding and love for Jesus as you prepare and teach lessons.
2. Share the Good News: You'll have the privilege of sharing the love and teachings of Jesus with others, helping them understand their faith.
3. Become part of a community: You'll become an active member of your parish's religious education program, connecting with other catechists and the people you teach.
4. Practice stewardship: You'll be actively participating in sharing the gifts and talents God has given you.
5. Impact the lives of others: You'll be a positive influence in the lives of children, teens, and adults, helping them grow in their faith.
6. Learn and grow: You'll learn new things about your faith as you prepare and teach, and you'll continue your own religious education journey.
7. Be a role model: You'll be a living example of faith and love for Jesus, inspiring others to grow in their own relationship with God.
8. Make new friends: You'll connect with other catechists and with the people you teach, forming meaningful friendships and connections.
9. Support the Church: You'll be actively involved in spreading the faith and helping the Church thrive.
10. Follow Jesus' call: You'll be actively fulfilling the mission Jesus gave to His followers: to "go and teach all nations".

A Simple Act of Faith
'The reality is, the vocation of catechists starts with a very simple act of faith. It starts when we say, "I believe," with a humble heart that says yes to living as a disciple of Jesus and to formally teaching others on a weekly basis to do the same. It is a desire to surround people of all ages with a community of believers who love, understand, and practice the faith. It is the willingness to share God's love story for us, one that unfolds every moment of our lives. This simple, joyful vocation is what we are calling people to follow.' (from Cultivating Your Catechists, Jayne Ragasa-Mondoy)