Catechetical Ministries

Ecclesial Staff

 

		Tish Scargill Director of Catechetical Ministry TScargill@dioceseofmonterey.org (831) 645-2830
		Terry Burrows Associate Director TBurrows@dioceseofmonterey.org (805) 458-2006
		Olga Flores Administrative Assistant OFlores@dioceseofmonterey.org (831) 645-2846

Director's Message:

During this difficult time of the COVID-19 Pandemic, parish catechetical programs were abruptly suspended, and then quickly restarted. Using technology and the innovative creativity of Parish Catechetical Leaders, Youth Ministers, and RCIA Directors, households experienced very little disruption in faith formation. For the adults, the availability to use Zoom for Bible study, RCIA sessions, and prayer quickly became the new normal. For children and youth, the role of the parents in their children’s formation has been strengthened and supported by the parish.
As we plan for the re-opening of our worship spaces and offices, parishes continue to be there for their families. There are many adults, teens, and children waiting to receive sacraments that they have spent 2 years preparing for. They remain a priority for the Catechetical Leaders.
As we move into summer, a time when things tend to slow down a bit, the concern as to what faith formation looks like in the fall is a big question. The Diocese and parishes are connecting with local school districts and our own Department of Catholic Schools. We know that we probably cannot offer sessions like they have been done prior to this epidemic, but we are working diligently to still offer comprehensive and quality formation.
In the meantime, I ask that you pray for the Catechetical Leaders, Youth Ministers, and RCIA Directors as they forge on still uncertain as to what the future holds. Stay safe and well.

Mission Statement:
Catechetical Ministry forms adults in the foundational beliefs of the Catholic Church and assists them in the training and catechizing of others.   The Department of Catechetical Ministries in the Diocese of Monterey participates in the Church`s mission to enable all people regardless of race, language, or country of origin to come to a profound and living knowledge of God in order to live a life of Christian Faith.

Description of Ministry:
The fulfillment of the catechetical needs of the diocese and the provision of catechetical resources for all parishes which includes the formation of catechists and master catechists, formation and training of parish DRE`s and CRE`s, formation of Catholic School religion teachers and the development of policies and guidelines for the sacraments of youth. This ministry also includes the on-going formation and training of R.C.I.A. leadership and teams.