PCL Convocation 2023

Power Point Presentation-Faith Formation: One Size Doesn't Fit All

Topic: Engaging Families in First Holy Communion Preparation
During this session, we will look at the challenges and opportunities we find today in working with families during this special time of Sacramental preparation.  Following a brief presentation, we will have a brainstorming session to share and help discover both "tried and true", and new, creative ways to engage families.


Speaker: Jessica Donohue, PCL, St. Joan of Arc Parish
Jessica is the Director of Religious Education (DRE) at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Marlton and previous DRE at her home parish of Sacred Heart in Mount Holly where she served from 2016-2021.  Jessica holds an MA in Religious Education from Felician University and is currently pursuing an MA in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary in Cromwell, Connecticut. She lives in Mount Holly with her husband and two adult sons.



Topic: Family Engagement across all Models
During this breakout session we will explore the various ways to engage families within each model of formation.  A brief overview will be presented of the necessity to engage families in our time, followed by a brainstorming session to share ideas and discover new techniques for engagement.


Speaker:  Dr. Mark Russoniello, PCL, Co-Cathedral of St. Robert Bellarmine
Mark Russoniello has worked in catechetical ministry for over 15 years as a volunteer catechist and Director of Religious Education.  He currently serves as DRE at the Co-Cathedral of St. Robert Bellarmine in Freehold.  Mark holds a master’s degree in Pastoral Theology from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine and a Doctorate in Ministry from the Graduate Theological Foundation.



Topic: Methodology for Elementary Aged Learners
This breakout will teach catechetical leaders and catechists how to bring excitement into their religious programs by using any model of formation.  Engaging students will ignite a fire in their hearts and get them excited about their faith.  Learn how easy it is to incorporate exciting and creative activities into your program structure and how to enhance and supplement the curriculum.  Specific ideas for topics will be shared.

Speaker: Laurel Marchesini, William H. Sadlier, Inc.
Laurel Marchesini is currently a Sales Representative for William H. Sadlier Publishing for Catholic and private schools and parishes in the state of NJ and in upstate NY.  Prior to joining Sadlier, Laurel served for over 13 years in parish ministry as the Parish Catechetical Leader, Director of Evangelization and Director of Lifelong Faith Formation.


Topic: Summer Program Nuts & Bolts
During this session, the focus will be on the summer RE program, specifically the weeks during the summer.  We will look at the diocesan expectation, how to incorporate the curriculum, engage volunteers and provide a balance of Evangelization and Catechesis to our learners.  There will be time to brainstorm new ideas and ask questions.

Speaker:  Mary Mykityshyn, PCL, St. Gabriel Parish
Mary is the Director of Faith Formation at St. Gabriel's Church, Marlboro. This is her 7th year running a Summer RE Program as well as a traditional program.  Mary earned her MA in Theology from Georgian Court University.  She has four grown children and currently lives in Monmouth County.


Topic: Bringing Community Service to the Next Level
Join us as we break open ways of incorporating community service into Confirmation prep that can take it from a "requirement" to a truly impactful experience!  We will discuss the most important elements to include, "in-class" service ideas, and even full day service retreats.  There will be time for discussion too, so bring along your own successes and frustrations of including service in your programs and classrooms. 

Speaker:  Dan Waddington, Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministries
Dan is the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Diocese of Trenton.  Previously he was a Pastoral Associate/Youth Minister/Confirmation Coordinator at St. Barnabas Parish in Bayville for 20 years.  He has an M.A. in Counseling Psychology and currently lives in Ocean County with his wife and 2 teenage children.  



Topic: Designing Monthly Catechesis for Families
In this breakout we’ll explore a non-traditional approach to “traditional” catechesis, one that incorporates elements of family catechesis, journaling, and living the liturgical year into the conventional framework of regular class sessions, all while providing flexibility for families juggling demanding schedules.  After the presentation, participants will be invited to share their own innovative ideas and methods.

Speaker:  Nancy Arkin, PCL, St. Benedict Church & School
After serving in various parishes in Brooklyn, NY for over 20 years, Nancy is currently the Director of Faith Formation at St. Benedict’s in Holmdel, NJ. She earned her MA in theology from Franciscan University in Steubenville, OH.  Nancy and her husband, Gary, have 4 grown children and live in Lincroft.


Topic: Providing a Pathway for the Unbaptized and Out-of-Sequence Youth
In this session, we will discuss the church's teaching on a pathway for the unbaptized.  In addition, we will examine how we approach families that bring children to us that have been baptized but have not received the sacraments in the same order as the religious education program.  Following the brief presentation, there will be time to brainstorm and have a discussion based on your experience.

Speaker:  Denise Contino, Director of Catechesis
Denise is currently the Director for the Department of Catechesis at the Diocese of Trenton.  Previously she was the Director of Faith Formation at St. Benedict Church and School in Holmdel, NJ for more than 10 years.   Denise has earned her MA in Theology from Georgian Court University.  Denise and her husband, John, have two grown children and live in Monmouth County, NJ.