BY FRANCES FAIRS Filming for the new diocesan Who We Are video took place a few months ago, offering a wonderful opportunity to capture our catechists in action—joyfully teaching, listening, praying, and guiding children in their journey of faith. While the final video will be shared soon, we wanted to offer a glimpse into the heart of the ministry by sharing the reflections gathered on filming day. Each catechist was invited to reflect on their reasons for being a part of the Catechist Ministry, and the moments that have marked their service. Their words paint a moving portrait of what it means to be an SRE Catechist today. Why are you an SRE Catechist? Paul: “I’m a Catechist because I think that it’s a responsibility of each generation to share the Gospel.” Cindy: “God has given me so much, and I want children to experience the same thing.” Fifi: “I think there is nothing more important than introducing children to God and his love.” Maria: “Because my priest asked me, and it’s a great way to share my faith.” Peter: “Because it’s an amazing way to be a part of the Church’s mission.” How do you contribute to the Mission of the Church? Paul: “It’s evangelising through simple teaching. We plant seeds of faith in young hearts and minds.” Fifi: “By planting the seed of faith, it enables us to make Jesus known and loved… especially to those who wouldn’t normally hear it.” Maria: “Catechists help shape children to lead good lives, and therefore shape their future, by proclaiming the Good News.” Peter: “I used to think being a missionary meant travelling far away, but now I see there is plenty of missionary work in my own community.” Cindy: “In preparing to teach each week, you learn so much. You grow in confidence and naturally share your faith.” Memorable Moments in the Classroom When asked to share meaningful moments, the catechists’ faces lit up! Cindy: “A 10-year-old told me he responded to a friend who said, ‘I don’t believe in God’ with, ‘I’ll pray for you.’ How good is that!” Maria: “I taught a lesson on generosity, and the children’s response to Project Compassion was so amazing—it really encouraged me!” Fifi: “I love it when the kids know the prayers, because I know they will remember them for the rest of their lives.” Peter: “The kids are really keen to know about God—they want to be involved.” Paul: “I love to sing and taught my class ‘Jesus Loves Me’ and now they sing it on their own. It’s fantastic!” The Impact of Catholic SRE The catechists also shared what they have observed in their students. Maria: “I see real growth in Christian values and behaviour.” Cindy: “They come to know they are children of God. They grow in relationship with God through prayer and a sense of belonging.” Fifi: “The children become less selfcentred and more caring, patient, and loving toward one another.” Paul: “They grow in knowledge of God and learn to trust Him in prayer, as well as in core Catholic traditions.” Peter: “They become prayerful and knowledgeable about their faith. It impacts their life and changes how they see the world.” It is clear to me that SRE Catechists play a vital role in evangelisation and although the motivations and gifts of catechists might be unique, all are connected to the mission of the Church. Thank you to Fifi, Peter, Cindy, Paul and Maria for sharing their hearts openly about their work as SRE Catechists. Their reflections affirm what we already know: SRE makes a genuine difference in the lives of children and in the communities we serve. May God bless all of our wonderful volunteers—Catechist Teachers and Helpers— as they guide young minds and hearts closer to Jesus. Catechists Share their Heart Insights from those Filmed in New Diocesan Video If you have a good news story to share about being a catechist, we'd love to hear from you! Email us at: support@ccdwollongong.com 18 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
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