"Through our diocesan catechetical offices, we commit ourselves to providing formation for catechetical leaders and catechists for all age levels so that they can serve the Church competently."
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The Office of Catechesis is committed to forming and supporting the catechetical leaders in the diocesan parishes. This is accomplished by providing opportunities for formation and professional development, networking with other Catechetical Leaders, and funding for continuing academic study.
Convocation of Catechetical Leaders
An annual overnight event for Catechetical leaders. Nationally-known speakers are engaged to present current thinking on various catechetical issues. Time is provided for networking among participants. Bishop Smith or his delegate publicly affirms the work of our catechetical leaders.
This certificate program provides formation for those who coordinate parish catechetical programs. Its goal is to develop the religious education leader along with a parish-based team. The 12-month curriculum blends spiritual and theological formation with practical skills development in a variety of administrative areas. There are presently three tracks: Coordinator of Religious Education, Coordinator of Adult Faith Formation, and Coordinator of the Catechumenate (RCIA).
Applicants must be presently serving a parish in some catechetical ministry.
Applicants must have the support and recommendation of their pastor.
Participants are required to form a group of 5 co-learners from their parish setting.
Participants design a small project in their ministry area using the insights and skills
they develop during the course of the program.
Interested participants must attend an Information Session to receive a complete explanation of the program before application materials will be provided. Two Information Sessions are scheduled annually, both held at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in mid-June.
Bishop John C. Reiss Religious Education Scholarship
The Bishop Reiss Scholarship makes funds available to anyone in catechetical ministry for tuition payments for courses in theology or a related field at a Catholic college or university. Catechists and catechetical leaders may apply for occasional courses or in pursuit of a degree. The Bishop Reiss Scholarship Review Board meets annually to review all applications and award scholarships.
An organization composed of Directors, Coordinators and Administrators of Parish Religious Education Programs. The purpose of this organization is to foster mutual sharing, support, enrichment, and to advise the Diocesan Office of the needs of catechetical leaders.
Current Officers
President: Sr. Peggy Russell, St. Luke, Toms River
Vice President: Mrs. Patricia Colando, St. Pius X, Forked River
Secretary: Mrs. Diane Osieck, St. Catharine, Spring Lake
Treasurer: Mrs. Cathleen Sheridan, St. Mary of the Lakes, Medford
Cluster Meetings sponsored by TRED. They are held in each county, several times throughout the year. The purpose is to provide support for the catechetical leader, by networking and discussing pertinent issues.The local leaders set the agenda.
Renew and Relax Retreat sponsored by TRED. This is an annual overnight experience, held in the late spring. The purpose is to provide spiritual renewal in refreshing atmosphere.
Professional days are conducted twice a year for Catechetical leaders. Timely topics are presented and time is allotted for input from participants.
Certificate Program for Coordinators
