The General Directory for Catechesis states, "…some lay people feel called interiorly by God to assume the service of catechist. The Church awakens and discerns this divine vocation and confers the mission to catechize. The Lord Jesus invites men and women, in a special way, to follow him, teacher and formator of disciples. This personal call of Jesus Christ and its relationship to him are the true moving forces of catechetical activity. From this loving knowledge of Christ springs the desire to proclaim him, to evangelize, and to lead others to the ‘Yes’ of faith in Jesus Christ." GDC, 231

The Diocese of Owensboro is blessed with the presence of more than 475 catechists in our 79 parishes. Leading, inspiring and instructing these catechists are the wonderful individuals we call DRE’s (Directors of Religious Education), Pastoral Associates, Coordinators of Religious Education and Youth Ministers. I have the wonderful privilege of meeting with these ministers on three regularly scheduled meetings and celebrating with them at year’s end with an appreciation dinner.

At our gatherings we share information and have a training session. We usually meet on Mondays in Owensboro and in Mayfield on Tuesdays. At the October meeting, Rita Brothers, Director of Parish Social Ministry, gave a PowerPoint presentation on Catholic Social Teaching and shared information to assist parish ministers and Social Concern Committees. Franki Durbin, DRE at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Hopkinsville, conducted the second half of the meeting. Franki is very creative and has developed many programs, retreats and activities for Sacramental Preparation.

Parish Youth Ministers have been attending these sessions for the past few years. As parish ministers, we realize the importance of collaboration in these vital ministries. We are also acutely aware that in many parishes one person may serve as minister in all of these categories. Our next meeting will be on Feb. 4 and 5 when we will focus on Youth Ministry issues and activities. Following the February meetings will be a workshop for DRE’s and Youth Ministers on Prayer, presented by Donna Glaser, representative for Resources for Christian Living. Donna will offer workshops in the afternoons on creative catechesis for Catholic schoolteachers and repeat the session in the evenings for Parish catechists.

Over the next few months and during the holidays, please join me in thanking these dedicated women and men who give of their time and talent to build the kingdom of God.