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PRAY and REFLECT
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Issue 17: Summer 2021
Download the pdf version of this issue by clicking here.
The word ‘CATECHIST’ comes from the Greek word meaning ‘to echo’. As Catechists or teachers of RE we do not proclaim our own word. We echo the message of Jesus Christ our Lord. This newsletter aims at providing parish catechists and teachers of RE in schools some support in terms of reflections, ideas, useful resources they can use and so on. Feel free to share with other colleagues and friends. There is also a pdf version which you can download by clicking on the thumbnail below.
| In this issue |
| On a Journey |
| The Catechist... Accompanying others on a journey |
| Quote |
| The Year of St Joseph |
| Patris Corde / With a Father's Heart |
| Resources |
On A Journey
Going on a journey can be both exciting and exhilarating. At the same time it can be risky too. This is because of the uncertainty about what one is going to come across during that journey. The metaphor of being on a journey is one that is used by many people in a range of situations. The Bible too is full of examples of people on a journey and each one has a number of messages for the reader to better understand the implications of setting off on a journey.
As catechists we walk alongside others on their spiritual journey. It helps to bear in mind however, that we are not going to be journeying with those in our class or group forever. The chances are that we are with them to support them in their faith journey for a short period of time - in most cases a matter of a few months or terms. This means that one of the thinks we ought to work towards is to give them the tools needed to carry on the journey of faith for when we are not there and they have to continue on their journey without the support or promptings of a catechist or a teacher. Such skills or tools include:
A sense of Community
Instilling an understanding of the importance of community and being an active part or member of a Christian community wherever you are.
A life of Prayer
A life of prayer - the ability to pray independently as well as to worship with others regularly throughout the year and in one’s personal life.
The Joy of Learning
The joy of learning and discovering more about our Faith - something which should help further deepening one’s faith.
The Catechist
Accompanying others on a journey
The Catechist is ...
... an accompanier and educator of those who are entrusted to him by the Church.
... becomes a a travelling companion with patience and a sense of gradualness ...
... through a process of formation helps his brothers to mature in the Christian life and journey toward God.
Quote
Always remember this: Life is a Journey. It is a path, a journey to meet Jesus.
Pope Francis
The Year of St Joseph
This current year (Dec 2020 to Dec 2021) has been chosen by Pope Francis as the Year of St Joseph. This humble yet popular saint is a great model to us in many ways.
He is someone who didn’t like to blow his own trumpet. Yet he was such a key person in the events surrounding the birth of Jesus and what the Holy Family went through in those difficult years. He is a witness to the fact that working behind the scenes has a great value. For us, Joseph is a reminder that although our work may often go unnoticed and we receive no plaudits for what we do within parishes, schools or other setups, what we do does not go unnoticed in the eyes of God.
It is even more important to learn lessons in humility and reflect on this virtue St Joseph had in abundance, particularly in our modern times when many people in high office or on various media always seek to do whatever they can to be seen and noticed.
As teachers or catechists we make sure that St Joseph is given a special place in our work this year. He ought to be presented as a model for us to imitate and to inspire us how to be people of faith who are ready to serve when called to do so.
Each of us can discover in Joseph – the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence – an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble.
Saint Joseph reminds us that those who appear hidden or in the shadows can play an incomparable role in the history of salvation.
A word of recognition and of gratitude is due to them all.
Pope Francis
Patris Corde
With a Father's Heart
Pope Francis’ apostolic letter about St Joseph, published for this special year on the 150th anniversary of the proclamation of St Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church.
Online Resources
Have a look at these websites for resources on the Year of St Joseph
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CATHOLIC INSPIRED A website with a wide range of craft ideas and other activities to use with children at home or in school. |
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CATHOLIC LINK Includes a range of resources on St Joseph such as prayers, videos and other general information. |
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TEACHING CATHOLIC KIDS Information, video links, prayers and other information on St Joseph, including devotions in different countries. |
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Download the pdf version of this issue by clicking here.
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