1 Corinthians: 12

We all have special gifts, unique to each of us. I have been blessed with the special gift of sharing my faith with the children here at St. Julie. I’m a first grade catechist and I can’t think of a more rewarding experience than this. To me, it is a great privilege to share all of God’s gifts with the children by being present to them as they begin their faith journey.

- Joanne Tuzik (First Grade Catechist)

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First Communion year is always a special one for second graders and their parents. I am the parent of a son who made his First Holy Communion this past April at St. Julie’s. In addition to the joy I experienced watching my son receive the sacrament, I have also had the good fortune to observe his religious education class several times this year.

The class was team taught. Each teacher’s unique perspective, warmth, and humor came shining through each Saturday morning session. I observed children being welcomed, guided, encouraged, and, sometimes, nudged a little if they needed it. They learned about the importance of talking and praying to God, respecting and helping others, and how to distinguish between “mistakes”, accidents, and “sins.” They learned what the sacrament of the Eucharist is based on and how the Eucharist can bring them closer to God.

Different teaching approaches were used to spark their interest and to help them learn. One particular Bingo game - “Can You Identify This Part of the Mass?” - was a big favorite this year. Parents were encouraged to share in preparations for the important event. Attending the Bread Meeting, accompanying our son to Reconciliation, decorating the family banner, and coming together as a family for the special First Communion day are all wonderful remembrances. Many thanks to Mrs. Kmak and all the St. Julie religious education teachers for making the above experience possible.

- Mary Kay Chathas-Ray (Parent)

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+ Part-time job with eternal benefits.

+ You learn as much as the children do.

+ You have an opportunity to share your faith and pass it on to the next generation.

+ You re-live your own sacramental journey.

+ You see God’s reflection in their eyes/smiles.

+ You broaden the children’s experience of the world.

+ You show the littlest ones among us how to pray and praise.

+ You attend monthly formation sessions where your own walk with the Lord is enriched.

+ Master and experienced catechists are available to support your efforts.

+ Relax.....they won’t know what page you are sup posed to be on.

+ You are given all the tools to do this from the Formation Office...now add your heart and soul.

+ Who else will guide, lead, and echo Jesus’ teach- ings?

+ It’s worth a try.....your heart will overflow with love for the children.

+ Jesus calls YOU.....LISTEN.

- Mary Jo Cronin (Fourth Grade Catechist)

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What’s our purpose? To provide formation in the faith for our children, leading them into the fullness of Catholic life. We do this by community and private prayer; by collegial and personal preparation; by a faith-filled instructional program; by animated classroom activities; by reliance on the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

How much time? One and a half hours per week (or alternate weeks) in the classroom; perhaps the same in preparation.

I’m not a teacher! Not necessary. Some of our best have had no teaching experience.....just good, practicing, prayerful adults, parents, seniors, singles. Let the Holy Spirit provide for your inexperience!

You may select your grade level - Pre-School and Kindergarten through Grade 8. You will be successful as so many others have been.

Try it; you’ll love it, and God will love you more!

Please call us if you are interested in being a catechist, (429-1044).