The definitive aim of all catechesis is to put people not only in touch but also in communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ.
(General Directory for Catechesis 80)

Catechesis is one of the fundamental priorities in the life of the parish and simultaneously is the heart and life blood of the parish and its mission. Leadership for other ministries emerges from effective catechetical ministry and lay formation. It is through parish leadership that the parish’s mission is more clearly articulated and carried out.

The tasks of catechesis as presented in the National Directory for Catechesis are: to promote knowledge of the faith; to provide liturgical education; to support moral formation; to foster prayer; to educate for community life; and to prepare members of our faith communities to be open to missionary dimension of our faith. Catechesis is an invitation from committed and faith filled individuals to others, inviting them into the sacred, gracious mystery of God’s love. In order to be successful, catechesis must affect family life, whatever fundamental relationship that circle of intimacy may entail.

All members of the Church are called to grow in faith and proclaim the Good News throughout their lives. Together the pastor or pastoral administrator and the catechetical leader (director of faith formation, religious education, sacramental catechesis, youth minister, etc.) foster and implement a comprehensive catechetical plan for faith formation for Catholics of all ages. This plan requires attention to the documents written by the USCCB and the priorities of our diocesan bishop. The team in the Department of Lifelong Faith Formation is charged with the mission of supporting parishes and other Catholic institutions in the creation and implementation of these plans. This website provides a number of resources for parish catechetical leaders to assist in planning or simply contact us with questions.