Catechist's Journey is the place for conversations about teaching the Catholic faith. Joe Popracki talks about his experiences as a catechist, and together with catechists explores ideas to meet the challenges and rewards of this ministry in which all are privileged to serve.
The Catechist’s Toolbox
How to Thrive as a Religious Education Teacher
Joe Paprocki
LoyolaPress
2007, 136 pages
After you purchase multiple copies of What Do I Do Now: A Guide for the Reluctant Catechist (Pflaum Publishing)” which I coauthored with Susan Stark, I enthusiastically recommend The Catechist’s Toolbox.
In addition to the catechist preparation materials in the catechist guides of all major curriculums, catechists will find themselves returning often to The Catechist’s Toolbox, an “encyclopedia” of skills, tips and practical advice.
Gratefulness.org is one of the best-designed and inspirational websites that I have found. Brother David Steindl-Rast, author of many titles including Gratefulness-The Heart of Prayer (Paulist Press), is one of the founders and contributing member of this international community of individuals, committed to the practice of gratefulness here and now. Explore the articles, inspiration resources for living in the gentle power of gratefulness which restores courage, reconciles relationships and heals our earth.
Alban Institute
Congregational Resource Guide
Alban.org
The mission of the Alban Institute is to provide resources, books, publications and consulting services for clergy and congregations. Their “congregational resource guide” is one of the most comprehensive websites of resources for church leaders. Sections include leadership, spirituality, worship, congregational resources, etc. I find their recommended reading section very diverse and comprehensive. The “seasonal reading recommendations” offer over 100 spiritual, religious and cultural titles beginning from winter 2002 to the present.
MVParents.com believes that the key to raising responsible kids lies in something called Developmental Assets. Created by Search Institute® and grounded in scientific research, Developmental Assets are the essential building blocks for children and teens.
This website provides an explanation of these 40 developmental assets and their application in the school, parish and home. The “idea bank” is a collection of past articles on a variety of topics that can be copied and distributed to parents and catechists.
What are the best practices that catechetical leaders practice in developing and leading effective catechetical programs for adults, youth, children and families? Please share your ideas and join the discussion.
What are the best practices that catechists use to create and present effective classes and learning? Please join the discussion.
There are two online groups: one for catechists and one for catechetical leaders. to find out more and to join visit
Catechists
This list is for Catholic catechists (religion teachers) to share
lesson plans, hints, ideas and activities. It is not a place to debate
(or even too deeply discuss) theology or doctrine.It is a list for
teachers, by teachers, about teaching Group Moderator: catechist-owner@egroups.com
To subscribe, send a message to catechist-subscribe@egroups.com or go
the this e-group's home page at http://www.egroups.com/list/catechist
Catechetical Leader - dre-talk@yahoogroups.com
This is a list for Catholic Parish Directors of Religious Education and Catechetical Leaders to share visions, hopes, ideas and struggles. It was created by NPCD, the National Association of Parish Catechetical Directors, part of the Religious Education Dept. of NCEA. The NPCD Executive Board members manage the list.
A study circle is a small group of individuals who come together on a scheduled basis for learning. Reading groups, discussion groups and journal clubs are specific types of study circles. As an example a study circle could consist of five to seven individuals who come together for four sessions which are facilitated by a leader. A topic may be organized theme, question, problem, book, magazine. For example a study circle may meet together to discuss the major ideas from a monthly magazine such as the Catechist, Religion Teachers Journal or U.S. Catholic. For more information on study circles visit the Study Circles Resource Center.
Lord God,
We come searching for Your wisdom.
Grant us the ability to be still and listen. (Pause for silence.)
We bring our hopes and fears, our expectations and misgivings.
Grant us the courage to trust You. (Pause for silence.)
Show us the path; keep us steadfast.
May we keep our eye forever focused on You. (Pause for silence.)
Amen
Alice C. Dorrance
Listening Heart Ministries
