Catechist Formation

Catechist formation provides the basic theological understanding, spiritual formation, and catechetical methodology necessary for those who pass on the faith.  The goal of catechist formation is to make catechist aware that as baptized persons they are true missionary disciples, meaning active participants in evangelization, and on this basis are enabled by the Church to communicate the Gospel and to accompany and educate believers in faith. (Directory for Catechesis 132)

Certificate in Catechesis 

Those who pass on the faith as Parish Religious Education catechists and Catholic School teachers of religion are required to obtain the diocesan
Certificate in Catechesis. To obtain a Cetificate in Catechesis, completion of a theology and methodology component are required.

Methodology Component

The Art of Catechesis

This three session course provides the support and encouragement, as well as the skills and tools a Catechist needs to pass on the faith.  This program is taught in parishes throughout the Diocese of Trenton.
 

Click here for courses currently being offered

Theology Component
Foundations of Catholic Belief

This online course, offered through STEP/McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame, explores the fundamental beliefs of the Catholic Church professed in the Creed and presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

• 7-week course (plus one week for orientation)
• facilitator-moderated live discussions once a week
• supplemental reading
• weekly written assignements (half a page)

Click here for a full synopsis on this course.