Catechist Page
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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: It is a joy for me to introduce myself to you and to express the great honor which is mine to serve as your Director of Religious Education at Guardian Angel R.C. Church.
To prepare for this ministry I hold a Master of Arts in Religion and Religious Education with an emphasis in Youth and Young Adult Ministry. I am also an adjunct faculty member at Dominican College where I teach New Testament and Religion in America to undergraduate students. I am Level II certified in Catechesis through the University of Dayton and the Archdiocese of Newark. My experience includes over 20 years of Religious Education in various catechetical settings, over 9 years teaching in a Catholic school and I continue to serve as Facilitator for the University of Dayton, Virtual Learning Community of Faith Formation where I teach adult faith formation courses on Old Testament, New Testament, Introduction to Catechesis, Introduction to Paul’s Life and Letters and other related courses. I also hold an MBA in Accounting where I worked in public accounting and auditing for many years.
I'd be happy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have about our Religious Education Ministry or about becoming a Catechist. You can call me at 201-327-0352 ext. 208 or you can reach out to my email address [email protected] so we can find a mutually agreeable time to speak.
Peace and all good,
Frances Ferraro
Director of Religious Education
"Love is our true destiny. We do not find the meaning of life by ourelves - we find it with another." Thomas Merton
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We currently need catechists in our Religious Education Ministry. Many thanks to the generous parishioners who give their time, and gift of faith to our youngest members!
Do I need to have any special skills?Catechists should have a love of children, their Catholic faith and the desire to share it with our parish families. Prior teaching experience is helpful but not required. Catechist training is provided by the Director of Religious Education along with the support of the pastor, parents and fellow catechists. Our publishers offer wonderful and user friendly books, online resources and support to our volunteers throughout the catechetical year; you’ll never be without an online resource to download and print to support your lesson!
Catechist Formation classes are available at area churches through the Archdiocese (contact us for dates, times, and places) and are also available through our online partner-in-faith, the Virtual Learning Community of Faith Formation (University of Dayton). Follow this link: https://vlcff.udayton.edu/about/
What is my Commitment?
Catechists prepare for and conduct 1hr, 30 minute Religious Education classes each Tuesday during the Catechetical year. Grades 1-5 meet from 3:30pm-5pm (15 weeks) and Grades 6-8 meet from 7:30pm-9pm (8 weeks - Fall); all classes meet at the Auditorium. In gratitude of the gift of your time and talent, we will waive the registration fee for your family (excludes retreat fees).
Catechists must be certified through the Archdiocesan Protecting God’s Children program to ensure a safe environment for our students. Go to our Protecting God's Children page for additional information.
Follow us on INSTAGRAM at guardianangel360 or on Facebook at GuardianAngelChurchAllendale.
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Catechist training opportunities
Archdiocese of Newark Catechist Formation: Please visit the AoN website for Catechist Formation Overview. Click here.
Please consider at home catechist faith formation opportunities with our online partner-in-faith, the Virtual Learning Community of Faith Formation (University of Dayton). Follow this link: https://vlcff.udayton.edu/about/ for more information. Please visit their website to see the variety of courses. Courses are $50 each and can be used toward your Catechetical Certificate. Please contact Frances Ferraro at 201-327-0352/x208 or [email protected] for more information and for assistance in registering.
Current Courses Available: Please note, Guardian Angel will reimburse you for the cost of the course.
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5 Great reasons to be a catechist!
1. The best way to learn is to teach. If your own Catholic faith formation and education ended years ago, the resources and materials you will use will refresh and expand your own knowledge. Your own faith life will come alive!
2. Catechists tell the truth and change lives. In a world where “truthiness” has become fashionable, catechists provide our students with knowledge and a way to move forward in faith and hope in their lives. Joining this ministry allows you to connect with others who will support you, pray for you and encourage you in your Catholic way of lfe.
3. You convey to your family that you value your Catholic faith and your parish community. Being a catechist shows others your Catholic faith is a high priority and you model good stewardship as you give some of your most precious resources - your time.
4. Jesus promised he would “be with us always.” You will experience the presence of Jesus in a deeper and more profound way as you align your own will with His as you prepare your lessons, teach your classes and engage with your students.
5. It’s what we are called to do. At the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus said: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” Your baptism calls you to share in Jesus’ ministry; so in other words - you’re good to go!
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