Responses from Participants, Chapter 4, part 1

Responses from the symposium participants
(Chapter 4, part 1):

How do your actions empower catechists?

We empower catechists directly through our involvement in the formation programs for catechists and in the enrichment programs for them. Indirectly, we empower the catechists by being part of the Religious Education Board, by forming a sense of ministry within the parish and urging people to find their proper role in the parish, by encouraging teachers in what they are doing as being an important task in the parish, and by visits to the classrooms and presence at catechetical functions.
The environment present in the parish shows that the catechetical ministry is an important priority of the parish. The presence of the pastor at many of the catechetical meetings and actual classes shows the importance of the catechetical role.
The DRE is encouraged to see that catechists are trained and certified. I know and call the catechists by name and I go on retreats with them. Catechists are recognized and empowered as ministers on Catechetical Sunday.
My actions demonstrate that all baptized Christians are interconnected and responsible for sharing the Good News. By preaching, teaching and encouraging catechists to participate in updating, I demonstrate the importance of the ministry of catechist, the importance and need for their ministry, and the interdependence of our ministries.
The importance of the role of catechists in the big picture is clear. They are part of a team/partnership effort. It keeps their task within focus. I publicly acknowledge their contribution, its importance, and the need for total parish recognition. I compliment them for a life well shared.
There are several ways: by letting them know of the high value I place on their ministry, by providing staff and resources needed to enable them, by recognizing them before the parish for their valuable contribution, and by being available to assist them personally in the classroom.
I give my catechists the freedom to be themselves. Their textbooks convey information. The teachers chosen are people of strong and balanced faith. They convey their faith and maturity to the children.
My actions empower catechists by allowing them to take ownership of their ministry and the responsibility that comes with it.
We need stronger and more models of lay ministry. Thus, I try to help my catechists see their efforts as a mission rather than as a task, that is, we are responding to God's presence in our lives. My efforts revolve around four key issues: recognition, growth opportunities, stabilization, and professionalism.

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