Called lo be- G- CONTENTS I. PREFACE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 2. SETI1NG THE THEME ........... .. ...... : . . . . . . . . . 4 3. COMMENTARY ON THE THEME . ....... ... . .. . .. ... 5 4. THE CELEBRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Preface for the Liturgy for Catechetical Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Catechetical Sunday Commentary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Homily Suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Commissioning Rites. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Rite of Commissioning during a Eucharistic Liturgy . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Rite Designed for a Family-centered Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 General Intercessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 5. CELEBRATION MODELS . .......................... 10 Catholic Deaf Center; Baton Rouge, Louisiana . . . .. . . . .. . .. ...... 10 St. Augustine's Parish; Providence, Rhode Island ...... .. . . .. . ... IO San Rogue Parish; Santa Barbara, California ....... ... .......... II St. Peter's Church; Fulton, Missouri .... .. . .............. . .. . .. I2 6. IDEA CORNER ..... . . . ............. . ..... .. . ... ... 13 Rite of Commissioning Adaptation .... ........... ........ . . .... 13 Rite of Commissioning Officers of a Youth Group . ... .... .. . .. . . . I3 Enterprising Stewards ....... . .... . . . ....... . . .... . . .. . .. . .. 14 Recruiting Teachers . . . . . . . .... . . . . ..... .. ..... . . ... . ... .. . . 14 Catechetical Sunday Booklet .. . ...... . . ...... .... ....... . .. . . 15 7. APPENDICES ... . . . . . .. . .... . ... ... . .. . ..... . ..... 16 Bulletin Announcements ................................... I6 Banner Suggestions ............... .. .... .. .. . . .... .... .. . . . I 7 Reproducible Art ....... . . . ......................... . .... . . I9 Commissioning Certificates ......... .. .............. . ........ 23 8. EVALUATION SHEET ... ... .. .. . . . ... ... .. ... . . .. . . 27 In its 1983 planning document, as approved by the general membership of the United States Catholic Conference in November 1982, the Department of Education through the desk of the Representative for Catechetical Ministries was authorized to continue its Catechetical Sunday Observance book. This present document, Called to Be Enterprising Stewards, has been prepared by Sister Mariella Frye, MHSH, the Representative for Catechetical Ministries in consulta- tion with the staff of the USCC Department of Educa- tion, approved by the Secretary of Education, Rev. Thomas G. Gallagher, and authorized for publication by the undersigned. March 24, 1983 Monsignor Daniel F. Hoye General Secretary NCCB/USCC Cover art, brochure and clip art design and banners designed by Suzanne M. Novak. Book design by Monica Rokus. Illustrations by Katy Kelly. Scriptural ex<;erpts in this book are from The New American Bible, © I970, Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington, D.C., and are used with the permission of the copyright owner. ©Copyright I983 UNITED STATES CATHOLIC CONFERENCE 1312 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20005 All rights reserved. m . I. PREFACE When we reflect on what it means to be followers of Christ, we might examine well our stewardship of ourselves, of others and of the world around us. Life, other people, the world with all of its elements and our faith are all gifts. How we use these gifts gives us some idea of how closely we follow Christ. The theme for Catechetical Sunday, 1983, is Called to Be r fPTf,MBER_'83~ Enterprising Stewards. As usual, the theme is based on the s Gospel of the day (Luke 16: 1-8), September 18, 1983, the 25th Sunday of the Year, Cycle C. It is hoped that this theme will serve as a basis for catechetical celebrations in parishes across the country, as well as be a challenge to parishioners and catechists alike to strive to be enterprising stewards of themselves, of others, of their world's goods, and of their faith. The 1983 Catechetical Sunday book is intended to assist each of the 18,000 parishes of this country in planning and implementing programs for Catechetical Sunday. In response to your evaluations of the 1982 Catechetical Sunday book, the liturgical celebrations and the commission- ing rites are the highlights of this year's edition, and appear in both the English and Spanish sections. The Spanish section, also in response to your evaluations, includes all of the material in the English section. The celebration models are examples of how selected parishes across the country celebrated 1982 Catechetical Sunday. Perhaps these might spark sotne ideas for your own celebration this year. To help you promote and celebrate Catechetical Sunday, you may reproduce material from this book. However, the matenal may not be reproduced for sale or general dtstnbu- tion. The evaluations of the 1982 book which we received were very helpful in planning for 1983. Please don't forget to send us the evaluation form for 1983, along with any ideas, sug- gestions, or programs from your parish or diocese. It is the hope of the staff of the USCC Department of Education that each parish in this country will find these materials helpful in celebrating Catechetical Sunday, 1983. The Department of Education is deeply grateful to all those who contributed to this booklet. Their names follow the sections they prepared. s M 4 5 1 I lZ (8""' J 19 25 ~0 3 - T w T- F s 1 2 3 (o 7 8 9 10 J) !4 15 10 17 ~0 2J 'L'L Z) '14 ~7 2!6 ~9 30 2. SETTING THE THEME Frequently stewards are understood to be good managers of time, talent, and money. In selecting Called to Be Enterprising Stewards as the theme for Catechetical Sunday, 1983, the planning team conceived a broader understanding of stewardship. One of Webster's definitions for the term is "the individ- ual's responsibility to manage his (her) life and property with proper regard to the rights of others." This definition comes close to what the team had in mind, but it is still inadequate. As followers of Christ we are called to be stewards of our- selves, of others in the community, and of the world. We are stewards of our bodies and of our minds; of our sisters and brothers in the human family; of the natural resources in our world; of financial and other resources at our disposal; of the faith; and of the word of God which we are called to pro- claim. The Scriptures often refer to the Christian life of service as stewardship. Many of the parables allude to this concept, e.g., the parable of the silver pieces. The message invites us to develop a consciousness that everything we have is a gift from God, and to treat it accordingly. "How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me" (Psalms 116: 12)? The graphic image of the just steward is an ideal image with which Christians can identify. Efforts for renewing society can best be summarized in this simple comprehensive stewardship statement: "As generous dis- tributors of God's manifold grace, put your gifts at the service of one another, each in the measure he (she) has received" (I Peter 4: 10). The theme Called to Be Enterpnsing Stewards was drawn from the gospel reading for the 25th Sunday of the year, Cycle C. At first, the planning team was tempted to change the word enterprising. Some felt that it had tones of material- ism, was too secularistic. However, after discussing the term in the context of the parable, we agreed that it described well the kind of stewardship we were intending. Enterprising means marked by an independent, energetic spirit, or will- ingness to engage in daring action. An enterprising steward is one who is creative and who uses initiative to further the work of the Kingdom. One first learns to be an enterprising steward in the con- text of the family. In the domestic church, the church of the home, children learn particularly by the example of their parents to be enterprising stewards of themselves, the com- munity, the world, and the faith . Pope John Paul II in Familiaris Consortia sets forth the following general tasks for the Christian. family: 1) to form a community of persons; 2) to transmit life·.and values; 3) to participate in the development of societies; 4);to serve the life and mission of the Church as a believing ;~l;ld evangelizing community, as a community in dialogue with God, as a community at the service of men 4 and women. For families to accomplish these tasks in the environment of the modern world, parents and children alike must be enterprising stewards. Catechists are called to be enterprising stewards, not only of their own lives but of their catechetical ministry as well. Whether working with children, adults, or families, catechists help people to recognize their gifts and to use them well for the good of the Kingdom. Good catechists encourage others to be good stewards of their bodies by eating properly, exer- cising regularly, and avoiding the misuse of drugs and alcohol. Catechesis helps people to develop their minds by stimulating their intellects and challenging them to discern the Spirit in their lives leading them and enabling them to live the Good News. Catechesis makes people aware of their responsibility to be their sisters' and brothers' keepers, loving them as they love themselves. It motivates people to do the work of justice, i.e., to work on behalf of those who are oppressed and to be disposed especially to help the poor. Developing enterprising stewards means enabling people both to be aware of the gifts God has given to our world, and to protect those gifts from environmental pillage. It also means making people aware of each one's responsibility for furthering the cause of peace. Catechists have a special responsibility to be enterprising stewards of the faith and of the message of Jesus. They strive to hand on the entire message in such a way that people understand it not only with their minds but also with their hearts. It is our hope that Catechetical Sunday, 1983, will be a celebration of our call to be enterprising stewards of our own lives, and the lives of others; of the world, and of our faith especially as it is expressed in the Word of God. 3. COMMENTARY ON THE THEME The annual Catechetical Sunday observance is a chal-lenge-a challenge to those of us who begin a year in advance to struggle with establishing the theme, with prayer- fully reflecting on the development of that theme for this book and, finally, with meeting the spring publishing dead- lines. For diocesan leadership, this annual observance is also a challenge. It demands particularizing the national materials for diocesan use and then passing national and diocesan materials on to parish leadership. Similarly, this observance is a challenge for parish leader- ship because the parish is the center of this celebration and where this celebration is intended to be the most fruitful. Catechetical Sunday initiates a new year of programs, of rededication to catechetical ministry, of sharing the light of faith, with and between young and old. Consequently, Catechetical Sunday challenges national, diocesan, and parish leaders and catechists to renew them- selves in the proclamation of the Good News. For as Pope Paul VI noted for us in the apostolic exhortation Evangeliza- tion in the Modem World: Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers it is because they are witnesses (41). This year's observance and theme, Called to Be Enter- prising Stewards, contain a.'l added dimension of challenge. As Gunther Bornkamm points out in his book Jesus of Nazareth, this parable (Luke 16: 1-13) contains not one "word of moral indignation at the action of the rascal, who heaps one deception on another. Consequently, the average pious reader of the Bible, even today, gives this parable a wide berth" (p. 88). That is not the challenge this year. We shall not give the rascal wide berth. On the contrary, it does appear that Jesus wants us to concentrate on this rascal, this "man who has no illusions of the future, (but rather) seizes his last chance" (p. 87). From the context of the parable, this man has no time to moan, to be indignant about his plight. He needs to be prepared for what is coming his way. Gunther Bornkamm describes that attitude as true wisdom, that is, "not in being indignant, but in being prepared" (p. 88). At a· time when we find our own troubled economy hard to understand, Jesus uses the economical practice and situa- tion of his times to teach us a lesson. He speaks to us about the reaction and presence we must have to the troubles of our own day, an attitude of preparation not indignation. That realization crystallizes the challenge in celebrating Catechetical Sunday 1983. For the National Catechetical Directory tells us that "Catechesis seeks to move people to 5 live justly, mercifully, and peacefully . . . and to work for appropriate social change" (170, 9). Justice is a constitutive element of all catechesis. This is even more evident if we accept the definition of justice as "the structured struggle to share the pleasure of God's earth" (p. vi), thus described by Matthew Fox in his book A Spirituality Named Compassion. Catechesis and doing the work of justice are intimately and intricately related. We have not always realized that. Some still do not, others make the mistake of turning catechesis into propaganda. The section of this booklet which strives to set the context of the 1983 Catechetical Sunday theme delineates the ramifi- cations of seeing justice as a constitutive element of cateche- sis. This year's challenge for us is to do the work of justice by proclaiming the Good News and then showing our brothers and sisters in Jesus that one cannot be had without the other. May this observance, then, be for us at the national, diocesan, and parish levels, for those who catechize and those who are catechized, an opportunity not so much to be indignant at our troubled times and contemporary injustice, but rather to be prepared for those challenges with a hope that flows into loving action to transform these times into our grace-filled moment! May we all answer the call to be enter- prising stewards! Rev. Thomas G. Gallagher Secretary Department of Education United States Catholic Conference e . " 4. THE CELEBRATION PREFACE TO 1HE UITURGYFORCATECHETICALSUNDAY T he bishops of the United States have designated the third Sunday of September to be Catechetical Sunday. It is a day on which the total parish community seeks to focus on one of its most important functions, the ministry of catechesis. The theme for each year is chosen from the readings of that Sunday so that the liturgical action, and the ministry of the Word in particular, can reinforce the theme in a prayerful setting. It is to be noted that current liturgical law insists that the readings for a Sunday liturgy should be those assigned by the Roman Calendar and the Ledionary for Mass (d. Generallnstrndion of the Roman Missal, no. 315a). Thus the assigned liturgy for the Twenty-fifth Sunday of the Year (C) should retain its importance and centrality in the observance of Catechetical Sunday, 1983. The 1983 theme Called to Be Enterprising Stewards is based on the gospel reading assigned for Catechetical Sunday this year. It is hoped that the theme will center on the person and role of the catechists, both professional and volunteer, who are called in a special way, first by baptism and then by the parish community, to use .well those personal abilities, skills, knowledge, and commitment in faith which are the bases for success in the ministry of catechesis. During our celebration we will commission those whose ministry this year will be teaching others. It is true that each of us catechizes by what we say and do, but today we highlight those who are called to be especially enterprising stewards who serve as catechist! teachers in parish programs. CATECHETICAL SUNDAY COMMENTARY 25th Sunday of the Year Cycle C September 18, 1983 Before Mass Good Morning (Evening): Today (Tonight) is the 25th Sunday of the Year as well as our annual observance of Catechetical Sunday. In our Eucharistic celebration we are challenged by the Lord to use wisely the gifts of our time and our abilities in service of others. We are to be wise and enterprising stewards who, with the eyes of faith, can spot imperishable treasures and work diligently to acquire them. Christ and his way of life are those treasures, and we would be truly foolish not to choose them. As in previous years, we recognize today the men and women who have heard and responded to the Lord's invitation to be enter- prising stewards through the ministry of catechist. In a simple ceremony, we will formally commission the persons who teach in our parish catechetical programs. In centering on their unique contribution to the life of our parish community, we should not be blind to the manifold ways in which all of us participate in the life of the Church. Rather, the witness of our catechists should help to make us all more aware that in baptism we sealed our commit- ment to Christ, a commitment entailing fidelity to his Word and 6 service of others. Each of us is to be the enterprising steward of today's Gospel. Before the First Reading (Amos 8:4-7) Amos rails against a crime which calls out to heaven for vengeance: dishonesty toward the poor-in this case, by those who give external observance to religious practices. Before the Second Reading (1 Timothy 2:1-8) The biblical foundation for the General Intercessions prayed at each celebration of the Eucharist may be found in today's second reading. In praying for all people, not just a special few, we give expression to Christ's will that all people be saved. Gospel (Luke 16:1-13) HOMILY SUGGESTIONS Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Cycle C) + Amos 8:4-7 + 1 Timothy 2:1-8 + Luke 16:1-13 Oong form) THEME The theme, Called to Be Enterprising Stewards, comes from today's gospel reading (Luke). In presenting the parable of the rich man and his crafty manager, Jesus states, "The owner then gave his devious employee credit for being enterprising! Why? Because the worldly take more initiative than the other-worldly when it comes to dealing with their own kind" (16:8). One may find a certain difficulty in preaching about this parable. The note of urgency in Jesus' teaching may be lost on today's hearers. (How does one convey to people-many of whom have been part of the Church all their lives-that unless they accept the reign of God right now they will experience a tragic loss?) In addi- tion Jesus' praise for the steward, who is dishonest, does not resonate well in most hearers. The manager is, indeed, enterpris- ing, but his methods are hardly worthy of imitation! In preaching the need to be enterprising stewards in today's Church, it might be better to concentrate on the Lukan applica- tions of the parable, particularly v. 8b (the other-worldly should have as much initiative as the worldly), v. 10 (trusting a person in lesser and in greater things), and v. 13 (no servant is able to serve two masters). The latter two of these sayings bear only a loose rela- tionship to the parable itself. POINTS FOR DEVELOPMENT 1. In the first reading the prophet Amos challenges true believers to be persons of compassion. This is a clear example of the Word of God being a word to disturb us rather than to comfort us. One should not overlook the application of this fact to the ministry of catechists. These contemporary Christian servants have the duty not only to convey Christian beliefs but also to proclaim the prophetic word with regard to Christian living. Religion becomes hypocritical unless the connection is made between the worship on Sunday and the business on Monday. The good churchgoer is one who lives his or her faith through- out the week. 2. Saint Paul proclaims the basic truth of the Gospel, " ... God is one. One also is the mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as ransom for all" (Second reading: I Timothy 2:5-6). He then states that he has been made by Christ the teacher of this true faith to the nations. Saint Paul, by his own words, becomes a model for those engaged in the ministry of teaching the Good News of Jesus Christ. The homilist may wish to point out some of the characteristics which the Apostle to the Gentiles exhibited in the fulfillment of his ministry: an uncompromising adherence to the truth, a zealous application to his task, a spirit of self- deprecation in service to Christ and to fellow human beings. Modern catechists should have similar traits. 3. The true disciple is one who subordinates everything in life to his or her commitment to Christ and his mission. While the main theme of the gospel parable is probably an eschatological one, i.e., that the end-time is at hand and now is the moment for critical decision to accept the reign of God, the homilist could also adapt this message of urgency to the context of con- temporary Church life. The verses added by the primitive community to Jesus' parable might be used as a basis for reflecting upon the stewardship of time in the Church. All Christians are called to use their time fruitfully to assist the Church's mission to pro- claim the reign of God. All must take a stand as disciples of Christ through their performance of the works of mercy; through their fidelity to their vocations in the world as spouses, parents, single individuals, religious, etc.; and through their par- ticipation in the structured ministries of the Church. While those who are engaged in the ministry of catechist are singled out today, all others have similar gifts with which they help to build up the Church. The foolish steward is the one who hoards all of his or her time and talents. The Church is challenged on this day not only to be enterprising in accepting the Good News for itself, but also to be just as enterprising in sharing that same Word of Life with a world in need. The situation is urgent. COMMISSIONING RITFS INTRODUCTION Parish catechists, many of whom are volunteers, may be engaged in catechizing adults, young people, children, or those with special needs. Theirs is a particular way of carrying out the promise which the Church makes at every baptism: to support, pray for, and instruct the baptized and foster their growth in faith . The fundamental tasks of the catechist are to proclaim Christ's message, to participate in efforts to develop community, to lead people to worship, and to motivate them to serve others (NCD #213). Indeed, each catechist is to fulfill these tasks as the enter- prising steward whom he or she is called by Christ to be. 7 The special ceremony or commissioning rite, in which we call forth catechists and officially recognize them to carry out the ministry of the Word, is of special importance in the celebration of Catechetical Sunday. This ceremony is one of recognition and sup.- port for the catechist, as well as a conferral of the profound respon- sibility of sharing the light of faith. The rite of commissioning usually takes place within a Eucharistic liturgy, but may be scheduled at another time more convenient to those involved. Maximum parish participation is desirable since the very nature of Catechetical Sunday is to celebrate within the parish community. It is suggested that repre- sentatives of different parish committees, the parish council, the parish ORE and the school principal, and other leaders take an active role in the rite itself. This will give a more complete sign of the dedication of the parish to total religious education. In adapting these rites for use in your parish, it is important to remember that each catechist should be called by name, and each catechist should receive a recognizable symbol of the responsibility he/she now assumes. In parishes where family-centered catechetical programs are flourishing, care should be taken to emphasize the role of the parents as catechists. Some dioceses adapt the commissioning rite into a large ceremony held in the cathedral with the bishop. Your parish planning group should be very creative in making this ceremony as vibrant a celebration of catechesis as is possible in your locale. RITE OF COMMISSIONING DURING A EUCHARISTIC LITURGY Entrance Rite The entrance song should have a community theme or be related to a theme taken from the scripture readings of Catechetical Sunday. The catechists can rightly be part of the entrance proces- sion along with the liturgical ministers. In greeting the assembly, the celebrant should announce the special observance of Catechetical Sunday and indicate the kinds of catechetical ministries represented in the community. The penitential rite and liturgy of the Word proceed as usual. When a Sunday Liturgy is celebrated, the Sunday readings must be used. Homily Suggestions for the homily are found elsewhere in this book. After the homily and creed, the priest should describe the purpose and importance of the rite of commissioning. The Rite of Commissioning INSTRUCTION Priest: God, our Father, has given our parish a very great gift. This gift is Good News which was embodied in his Son, Jesus. We share the responsibility of ministering to others in our community and extending the Good News of the Gospel which we have heard. Some of the members of our parish have responded in a special way to be stewards of this Good News through involvement in the catechetical ministry. We now call them forth and give them a commission to be catechetical ministers of the Word of God. CALL Commentator: , Let those who are about to be commissioned as catechists please come forward. (The president of the parish council, the director of religious education, the school principal, or other appropriate parish leader calls out the names of the catechists who then step forward.) PRAYER OF THE COMMUNITY (General Intercessions) Priest: As a sign of our concern and support, let us join in prayer for these members of our community and for all who are called to minister in the Church as enterprising stewards of the Word of God. (Silent pause, after which the lector or some catechists pray(s) the general intercessions. See page 9.) COMMITMENT OF THE CATECHISTS Priest: (To catechists) My sisters and brothers, Jesus said to his disciples, "Go into the world and preach the Gospel to all nations." Will you continue to grow as disciples of the Lord by making every effort to hear the Word of God, integrate his Word into your lives, and share his Word with others? Catechists: !will. Priest: You have been called to become ministers among our people. Do you promise to bring the Word of God to our parish family through prayer, teaching, service, and example? Catechists: I do. Priest: Are you prepared to fulfill all the responsibilities which this ministry requires in fostering the faith of those directly entrusted to your care? Catechists: I am. Priest: Then this community of faith gratefully accepts your willingness to respond to God's call and, on its behalf, I commission you to be catechetical ministers in our parish. COMMITMENT OF THE COMMUNITY (To the community) My brothers and sisters of ______ _ Parish, realizing that we all share in the ministry of catechetics, do you pledge your support for these men and women called by God from out of our midst, and commissioned by you as catechists in our parish school religious education program? Community: We do. Priest: Will you endeavor, through prayer, witness, and participation in our parish programs, to continue to be ministers of God's Word to each other, so that we may grow together in sharing in the work of the Lord? 8 Community: We will. Priest: Then, on behalf of our parish, I accept your commitment to par- ticipate in and support the catechetical ministry of our parish. SYMBOLIC GESTURE Option A: Symbolic Gift (At this point, the pastor or his representative gives each catechist a sign of his or her office.) Priest: (Name) , receive this as a sign of your commitment to the catechetical ministry of our parish community. It carries with it a pledge of our support through witness, work, and prayer. Option B: Symbolic Blessing (The priest blesses each catechist.) Priest: "I give thanks to my God every time I think of you-which is constantly, in every prayer I utter-rejoicing, as I plead on your behalf, at the way you have all continually helped pro- mote the Gospel from the very first day. I am sure of this much: that he who has begun the good work in you will carry it through to completion, right up to the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:3-7). Community Response The lector or other appropriate person invites the community to demonstrate its support and recognition by applauding or singing a thanksgiving hymn. Catechists return to their places. The Liturgy of the Eucharist begins, with members of the community and catechists having the opportunity to present the gifts. RITE DESIGNED FOR A FAMILY-CENTERED PROGRAM Introduction This rite is designed to be used within a Eucharist Liturgy. It calls for the participation of a limited number of families and the larger parish family. In preparation for the Eucharistic celebration, it is suggested that the families proceed in with the celebrant and sit together. The rite is designed to take place after the homily. It is suggested that all participants renew their baptismal promises as an introduction to the rite. The Rite of Commissioning INSTRUCTION Priest: Today, these families have come together with the community to celebrate their promise to proclaim the message and serve the Word. They have responded to the call to be enterprising stewards of the Lord's gifts to his people. CALL Commentator: We ask the following families (please name them) to come forward and stand before this community as they make their commitments to be active participants in our family-centered religious education program. (The commentator calls out the names of the families and invites them to come to the sanctuary.) COMMUNITY PRAYER (General Intercessions) Priest: Let us pray for these families as they begin their ministry. May the Lord strengthen them inwardly through his Spirit. May Christ dwell in their hearts through faith, and may charity be the root and foundation of their family life. Let us also pray for all who have been called to minister in the Church as enterprising stewards of the Word of God. (After a moment in silence the general interces- sions are prayed.) COMMITMENT OF THE FAMILIES Priest: In baptism, God's Spirit has made you his disciples. Do you commit yourselves to this baptismal service of the Word among yourselves and in our parish? Families: We do. Priest: Do you pledge to do your work generously and perform your servi~e in charity and joy? Families: We do. Priest: As pastor of this community, I send and commission you to go forth into the parish community as a witness of God's own Word. Priest: Do you accept this ministry to the families in our parish? Families: We do accept it. Priest: Will you, the families of our parish, accept the catechetical ministry of these families? Community: We will. Priest: Will you offer your constant prayers and support to these families as they carry out their catechetical ministry among us? Community: We will. Priest: As members of this Christian community, we accept your commit- ment and pledge our support. May God, the Father of us all , bless you and give you strength. May the Lord's Spirit be upon you; May he proclaim his message and help you grow in his love. We ask this in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ who lives and reigns forever and ever. Families: Amen. 9 (The lector or commentator may invite the community to demon- strate its support and recognition by applauding. The newly com- missioned families might then participate in the presentation of gifts which begins the Liturgy of the Eucharist.) Rev. Ronald Krisman, Associate Director Bishops' Committee on the Liturgy National Conference of Catholic Bishops GENERAL INTERCESSIONS Priest: (This introduction is suggested for use at celebrations of the Eucharist in which commissioning rites are not used. See other introductions to the Genera/Intercessions in the commissioning ceremonies themselves.) We have heard the Word of God and reflected on its challenge to the Church to be enterprising stewards of God's many gifts to us. Let us pray that the Lord may strengthen his Church to live a life worthy of the Gospels. Lector: • For Pope John Paul II, our bishop , our pastor(s) _______ , our parish ORE , and all entrusted with the teaching responsibility of the Church; that they may excel as stewards of the Word of God; let us pray to the Lord. • For the world's leaders in government; that they may never trample upon the needy or destroy the poor of the land but rather seek justice, peace and reconciliation among all God's people; let us pray to the Lord. • For our parish community; that we may dispense the ·Lord's gifts of freedom, peace and justice to all people, especially the poor and the defenseless; let us pray to the Lord. • For all who have served as faithful and enterprising stewards of the Lord's storehouse of treasures: our parents and teachers, and the priests, deacons and sisters who have contributed to our religious formation; let us pray to the Lord. • For all dedicated men and women, and especially for those of our parish, who witness to their faith through their service in catechetical programs; let us pray to the Lord. • For children throughout the world; that their gifts of simplicity and trust might be valued by all of us, and that our efforts in the world might help to make it a better place for all God's little ones; let us pray to the Lord. • For all the students of our parish, of whatever age; that they may continue to open their hearts to God's Word of wisdom; let us pray to the Lord. • Other intentions: the sick, the recently deceased or other special or local intentions. Priest: (Conclusion for use when the General Intercessions are not part of a commissioning rite.) Father, we are the children born of your love. Hear us in our needs and strengthen us with the power of your Word. Help us to live tranquil lives in perfect piety and dignity. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit for ever and ever. Amen. 5. CELEBRATION MODELS CAlHOLIC DEAF CENTER BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA Catechetical Sunday for the ~~mbers of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Baton Rouge, Loms1ana proved to be not only a challenge but also an adventure. Our parish is not limited by boundaries, but serves the deaf and hard of hearing of the entire diocese. We knew that our commissioning ceremony would have to be adapted for sign language. Since we are located ~cross the street from the Louisiana School for the Deaf, we prov1de a catechetical program for the Catholic day students and boarders who come from all over the state. God has blessed us with wonderful volunteers. Some are hearing and know sign language and some are deaf themselves. Most of our catechists are or have been teachers. Naturally, we feel doubly blessed .with such profes- sional and highly skilled people. The pastor, Father Myles Kearney, and I wanted to make our first commissioning ceremony especially meaningful to our catechists since this is a new ministry for both of us. An invitation was sent to all the teachers two weeks in advance and announce- ments were made at Mass to the congregation explaining what would happen. Programs were printed bearing the names of the catechists and a message from the pastor and myself. A prayer was included for all catechists. On the day of the commissioning, each teacher was given a program and a special badge with the logo of Catechetical Sunday printed on it. At the entrance to the chapel stood a large poster of the logo, Welcoming the Lord. Since the eyes of the deaf are the main receptors of communication, these programs, posters, and badges were all color coordinated in the fall colors of orange, gold and yellow. A special ceremony booklet had been made for the altar in which the rite of commissioning had been translated. As the director of Religious Education, I finger- spelled the names of the catechists to come forward for the ceremony. They formed a semicircle around the back of the altar so that they and the congregation could see Father Kearney as he signed from the side of the altar. Father Kear~ey blessed each ~eg­ ment of the congregation with holy water wh1le they made the1r commitment to pray for and support the religious education pro- gram of the parish. At the end of the ce~emony, t.he ca~ech~sts received a certificate rolled in scroll fashwn and tied w1th nbbon. The congregation responded enthusiastically. They felt that they had been called to participate in the commissioning and that the religious education of the deaf child was partly their responsibility. Over the next few weeks, members of the congregation began to come forward volunteering to help . Some became bus drivers, some helpers on the bus, others wanted to be song leaders for Mass, or orange juice and cookie hosts after the children's Mass. We at St. Francis see this commissioning as the beginning of a wonderful growth process. The members of our congregation are now more aware of what they can do to respond to the needs of the parish. Our plans for religious education in 1983 involve more parishioners as well as youth volunteers from the high ~hool level. We hope to include all these aides and volunteers m the commissioning ceremony because they play a vital role in the educational process of our parish. We feel that we have made g~eat progress in helping our parishioners become more aware of the1r 10 responsibility in the religious education of the young deaf chi.ld. We are looking forward to greater involvement as well as a v1tal and growth-filled program in the future. Sister Shirley Bodisch, OP ST. AUGUSTINE'S PARISH PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND W e were more than pleased to hear the theme Welcoming the Lord announced for 1982-83, since we felt a strong need in our large, middle-class, city parish for a call to renewal of personal relationship with the Lord Jesus. We decided to plan our whole educational and liturgical year around the theme, with September 19th, Catechetical Sunday, as the point of departure for a year-long journey of faith. From early September, all communication to parents, teachers, etc., from this office as well as bulletins and posters were emblazoned with the Welcoming the Lord logo. We enthroned the Scriptures in the Religious Education Office and redecorated the office with a rug, comfortable chairs, handmade scriptural banners, an extensive lending library of books and cassette teaching tapes for adults. Music and ever-flowing coffee created an atmosphere of welcome. We began our first teachers' meeting here. Gathered around the Scriptures, for Evening Prayer, we decided to launch a campaign to familiarize the parish with the ~iturgy of the H~urs. A quilted, processional-size banner, reflectmg the Welcommg the Lord logo, was made for our most heavily attended Mass on Catechetical Sunday. Forty teachers and administrators from the Religious Education Ministry and our parish sch?Ol wal.ked behind it in solemn entrance procession. After the hom1ly, wh1ch was a clarion call to the adults of the parish to welcome Christ more deeply this year by personally "tasting the goodness of the Lord" through participation in our many adult education programs, all teachers came to kneel at the altar where the pastor imposed hands on each individual, blessed them and sent them forth to bring the Good News. Following Communion, to the strains of Here I Am, Lord, 20 teenagers who had voluntarily joined our newly formed post-Confirmation program, circulated through the church. They distributed booklets covered in two dozen shades of rainbow color, which was reflective of the processional banner and the welcome that is extended to our multifaceted community. These booklets (which were available to the entire parish) con- tained the purpose and programs (all levels) of the Religious Education Office in St. Augustine Parish. A brief reading of the booklet indicates the continuity of teaching and liturgical celebra- tion as flowing from the theme Welcoming the Lord. On the following Sunday, September 26th, 30 of our teachers met at Mercy Lodge, a nearby house of prayer in Cumberland, R.I., for a day of recollection and a pot-luck supper, again based on the theme, Welcoming the Lord. Felicia B. McKnight SAN ROGUE PARISH SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA San Rogue Parish in the central coast area of California is rich in its diversity-geographically, ethnically, theologically, and age-wise. With over a thousand families, it is challenging to find ways to come together and celebrate our oneness in the Lord. So, this year when we followed the Catechetical Sunday Booklet, and asked all our people and prayer groups for prayer regarding the celebration, we were surprisingly pleased at the results. Having a Franciscan order of nuns teaching in our school, we met with them early on to prepare together for making Catechetical Sunday a special happening. Using bulletin notices several weeks in advance, we alerted parishioners that their 46 catechists would be having a commissioning/commitment service at a special Mass. Since we do have an excellent liturgy committee, we explained the day to them and requested their help with such things as making the banner that was chosen from among .those suggested in the Catechetical Sunday Booklet. We also asked them for ideas regarding coffee and refreshments afterwards in our small parking lot (which is right outside the doors of the church). The reception was later planned for the hall in case of inclement weather (we do have some of that here). We also wanted to have displays of our programs and sign-up sheets available after all the weekend Masses for those interested in being involved in any way with catechesis. We tried our hardest to delegate various jobs to be done and found that there were people very enthusiastic about doing a one- time job for their parish, especially those who did not have a great deal of time to commit. We found a highly organized person to handle the reception for us and told her to do whatever she wanted. For the reception, she involved 83 children from the parish by asking for volunteers to bring and prepare food and flowers, to make name tags, to create a comfortable, pleasant atmosphere in the hall. They used small card tables, covered them with table- cloths and set vases of flowers on each table. There were tables of pastries and other goodies, plus coffee, tea, and punch. We catechists were deeply touched by the caring, sharing and loving of those children .. . and were thankful that someone had given them the opportunity to serve us. It was the first time that some of our catechists had not had to be involved with doing the work. That was nice. Also, it helped us start the year already see- ing the fruits of catechesis ... that these children had already responded to seeds planted before. For the Mass itself, we had our youth music group, Morningstar, lead us in song. We chose to celebrate at the 9:30 A.M. Sunday Mass since it seems to attract more of our younger families. With our booklets (bare bones inside, because we did not want people to be reading them but to be helping us celebrate) in the pews, and our pews reserved in front with cards and flowers, we proc- essed in together .. . in alphabetical order. We do sometimes tend to be groupy people, to sit with those we know and with whom we are comfortable. So, the reserved seating gave us a chance to branch out a little and become one in a closer way with the other catechists in our parish. 11 For the Commissioning Rite, Father McCabe invited each catechist to come forward as they were called by name to receive from him a special blessing and the laying on of hands. For the offertory, our special gifts included a basket with all of the commis- sioning certificates inside, rolled and tied with ribbons, and the representative books that are used in our catechesis. Of course, an announcement was made at Mass about the recep- tion and an invitation was issued to all parishioners. Once in the hall, we handed out the commissioning certificates to the catechists and enjoyed being together. As a follow-up, we intend to have a catechists prayer service (perhaps in the convent) early in the spring to re-awaken and revitalize us as a group "together in his love." Becky Milton and Sister Barbara ST. PETER'S CHURCH FULTON, MISSOURI Catechetical Sunday has been a part of the St. Peter's parish worship experience for the past seven years. Until recently, catechists from both the parish school and the out-of-school elementary program were called forward at the Sunday liturgies; their services were acknowledged and prayers were offered for them in their respective ministries. The celebration was also a time of recognition of those who had fulfilled the diocesan requirements for certification of religion teachers. In recent years, however, the structure and focus of religious education in the parish began to change. The prime areas of education (preschool, elementary, youth, sacramental preparation and adult education) came under the direction of committees who assisted me in planning, implementing and evaluating programs. Parents began preparing their children for their first reception of the Eucharist and reconciliation. Other adults were assisting in baptism and marriage preparation, acting as sponsors in the RCIA, and sharing the word in ecumenical outreach groups and in other areas of social concern. In short, both the role of catechist and the concept of religious education became greatly expanded. In response to this change and in an effort to eliminate the use of words that may have had little meaning to many parishioners, the title of our fall celebration was changed to Ministry Sunday. During the celebration, all the names of those who were formally involved in sharing the word were called. Those called made a formal statement of commitment and the congregation responded with a prayer of support. Songs, etc., were chosen to express the theme and were related to the Sunday readings. In August of 1982, a group of men and women, including parish school teachers, the school principal, catechists from the Sunday School and committee members who plan for elementary pro- grams, met for an escape day. The day was planned to facilitate the sharing and reflection on one's personal experience of being "Body of Christ." The day included a prayer service in which each person made a commitment to use his or her gifts and talents dur- ing the year. The commitment was followed by an anointing and prayer by another member of the group. This was to express that the whole "Body" is support and nourishment to the "part." The above experience was fresh in the minds of those who later met to plan the fall celebration for catechists in September. The following planning outline was used for this purpose: • What do the readings say to me and to others in the planning group both as individuals and as members of this parish? • Define briefly-in theme form. • What in the parish experience can be used to celebrate this event? • What in personal experience can be used to celebrate this event? • What new things can be added to continue growth within the parish? 12 This year, we again used the title of "Ministry Sunday." Songs appropriate to the theme and message were used. The homily created a sensitivity to and an awareness of one's special gifts and how they are used. At homily time, it was announced that all who felt they par- ticipated in the ministry of sharing the word could come forward after communion time. No names were called. Each person made his/her own decision. A general invitation was given to gather around the altar. The entire congregation was asked to extend their ~and_s in blessi_ng over the oil (plain olive oil-a natural product nch m symbolism) to be used in the anointing. The pastor anointed one person who, in turn, anointed another, and the last lay person in the group anointed the pastor. During the anointing all sang Here I Am, Lord. We recessed to the hymn God's Blessing Sends Us Forth. Regina M. Caroer 6. IDEA CORNER RITE OF COMMISSIONING ADAPTATION The following is an adapted Rite of Commissioning which Sister Shirley Bodisch, OP, prepared for a deaf community (see Celebration Models). INTRODUCTION Priest: God, our Father, has given our parish a wonderful gift. This gift is the Good News of Jesus. We all share responsibility to give this gift to other people who do not know it. Some people in our parish offer themselves in a special way by serving as catechists. We call them to come up and be commissioned as ministers of the Good News. (The names of the catechists are fingerspelled as they come forward .) GENERAL INTERCESSIONS That Pope John Paul II and our parish staff may excel in leading us to Jesus; let us pray to the Lord. That the world leaders may search for peace and togetherness for all God's people; let us pray to the Lord. That our parish may welcome the Lord by living honest and car- ing lives for all people; let us pray to the Lord. For all the people who taught us long ago to love God; let us pray to the Lord. For the men and women who teach our children religion; let us pray to the Lord. For the children, that adults may make the world a better place for them; let us pray to the Lord. That our students continue to open their hearts to God; let us pray to the Lord. Prayer: Father, we are all children born from your love. Listen to our needs and give us strength. Help us to tell other people the Good News about Jesus, your Son, who lives with you and the Holy Spirit forever. Amen. COMMITMENT OF THE CATECHESIS Priest: My sisters and brothers, Jesus told his disciples, "Go into the world and preach the Gospel to all nations." Will you continue to grow by trying to hear God's Word, hold it in your hearts, and share God's Word with others? Catechists: We promise. Priest: You are called to become ministers among our people. Do you promise to welcome Christ among us by bringing the Good News of God to our parish through your prayer, teaching, service and examples? Catechists: We promise. Priest: Are you ready to take all the responsibilities that this ministry requires in helping faith to grow in our children? 13 Catechists: We promise. Priest: This community in faith joyfully accepts your response to God's call. I give you authority to teach religion in our parish school program. COMMITMENT OF THE COMMUNITY Priest: My brothers and sisters of Parish, we under- stand that we all share in the work of these teachers. Do you promise to support these teachers? Congregation: We promise. Priest: Will you try through your prayers and actions to show God's love to each other, that we can grow together to share God's work? Congregation: We promise. Priest: I accept your promise to support and pray for the teaching pro- gram of our parish. SYMBOLIC GESTURE At this point, the pastor gives each catechist a certificate, the sym- bol of his/her office. Priest: (Name) , receive this sign of your work as a minister in our parish community. It is a promise of our support through witness, work and prayer. COMMUNITY RESPONSE The lector invites the congregation to show its support by applaud- ing. The catechists return to their places. The Liturgy of the Eucharist begins with members of the community and catechists presenting the gifts. RITE OF COMMISSIONING OFFICERS OF A YOUTH GROUP G.R.E.A.T. GROUP: God Remembers Especially a Teenager Celebrant: God, our Father, has given our parish a very great gift. This gift is the Good News which was embodied in his Son, Jesus Christ. We all share in the responsibility of ministering to others in our com- munity and extending the Good News of the Gospel which we have heard. Our youth advisor, , has responded in a special way to share in the work of our Lord through involve- ment with our high school youngsters. As we all know the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and their Christian formation is not only vital to their family, themselves, but to our country and the world as well. Our G.R.E.A.T. group has and is working hard to advance in their knowledge of our Catholic faith, to serve our community, and to set an example for other high school students. At this celebration, as a community of faith, let us congratuiate the outgoing officers of the G.R.E.A.T. group and commission the newly elected officers. Will all the officers please come forward when your name is called. Advisor's Call: The following young men and women have served as last year's officers in an excellent manner: President ______ _ Vice President ; Treasurer ; and Secretary . Our new officers are: _____ _ President; , Vice President; _____ _ Treasurer; and , Secretary. Celebrant: My brothers and sisters in Christ, let us join in prayer ~hat God, our Father, will bless these G.R.E.A.T. group leaders. We pray that they carefully perform the tasks entrusted to them; that they, by word and action, preach Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior; that by their very deeds they lead other high school students to follow in their footsteps. As a sign of our concern for and support of these fine young men and women, let us join in silent prayer for a moment . . . (pause). Celebrant: (To G.R.E.A.T. leaders) Will you continue to grow as disciples of the Lord by making every effort to hear the Word of God, to inte- grate his Word into your lives and to share his Word with others? G.R.E.A.T.Ieaders: ! will. Celebrant: You have been called to be the leaders of all high school students in the G.R.E.A.T. group. Do you promise to lead your peers to the best of your ability as guided by the Holy Spirit? G.R.E.A.T.Ieaders: I do. Celebrant: Then, our community of faith gratefully accepts your willingness to respond to God's call and, on its behalf, I commission you to be leaders in the G.R.E.A.T. group as guided by your most competent advisor, ______ _ SYMBOLIC GIFT (to outgoing officers) Celebrant: To you outstanding past leaders, I present this gift as a sign of my office, your pastor, with the request that you continue to grow in our Catholic faith and encourage others to join this tremendous youth group. I thank you for the commitment you have made to our parish. Advisor's Call: Let us indicate our support and recognition. (Applaud.) ENTERPRISING STEWARDS T ake one moment, and list the five most precious gifts you have. Do not read any further until you have finished: list 14 five, only the five most precious gifts. Completed your list? NOW continue reading! If time was one of the top three gifts on your list, you needn't read this article. Time is a most precious gift! If you really believe this, you have already considered the following ideas and put them to use, or you have decided they are not suitable for you. If time did not rate as one of your top three, read on. As a director of Religious Education in my parish, I ask myself the following questions in order to make the best possible use of my time. 1. Do I pray enough? Yes, all we do, everything we do, can be a prayer, but do I spend time, just plain waste time with Jesus, possibly right with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? After all, it's his work, his Word, not ours. Do we spend enough time just listen· ing to him, listening to his direction and not just to the most popular theory advertised or the latest fad? 2. Do I spend enough time just dreaming? I guess instead of dreaming the word would be envisioning where Jesus would want religious education to be going in this parish. What do I want junior high students to be able to profess about their faith beliefs? What would the benefits be in having a summer program? What is the sacrament of reconciliation really all about? 3. Do I spend enough time with the catechists? Do I show my love and concern, not just for their progress in the classroom, but for their personal lives and their families? 4. Do I honestly and sincerely spend the few moments I have with the students? Am I glad to be there with them for whatever the circumstance? Can I look in their eyes and see his beauty? 5. Do these things take most of my time in this ministry or do I get trapped because of my lack of organization, trapped into the nitty gritty things of inventories, record keeping, replacing teachers, or even some other worthwhile (but not religious educa- tion) project in the parish? I suppose it all depends on the value you place on time, your point of view, your priorities. It all depends on what you see as the ministry called Director of Religious Education. Mary Jo Gregg RECRUITING TEACHERS L ast Monday evening as we were enjoying our family dinner together, the usual question was posed, "What did you learn in CCD today?" In our town religious education classes are held every Monday afternoon and this is the natural topic for dinner. Since we go around the table in very democratic fashion, the grades will not be in sequence. Our second grade (not very pious) daughter told us, "Why do you smell like a peanut? Because you were sitting with an elephant." Our fourth grade son said they had " studied the Fourth Commandment today with all of its impli- cations." Our first grade son said they had learned "about God." Our fifth grade son had discussed holy orders and its three parts. And, our third grade daughter could tell us about Stephen, the first martyr. This goes on every Monday evening at dinner. Tiresome, I should say not. Why? Because every week they know they will be asked that question. Their fragile hour of formal religious educa- tion is important. That's why we discuss it. In all these answers we detect the teacher's care, concern and preparation. Where did these volunteer teachers come from? They were recruited. By whom? Our Lord Jesus. Recruitment of religious education teachers is the most time-consuming, awesome, and wonderful experience I have had as a director of Religious Educa- tion. In recruiting 1: I. Listen, carefully listen . No, that was not a misprint. I wanted to add as much emphasis as I could! 2. Ask other listening parishioners who they think would, with enthusiasm, take a class. 3. Go through the parish roster and keep an open mind. I ask myself if I would be comfortable with our children learning about God from that person. 4. Pray. In my prayer I tell Jesus how many teachers I think he needs based on the registration number and ask him to open enough hearts so that those persons will come forward. 5. Start to work on the phone (early August). God does not make phone calls. Calls are made in priority order-a prayer sponsor coordinator, teachers, secretaries, child care personnel, then substitutes. A prayer sponsor coordinator is the person who recruits an anonymous prayer partner for everyone working in the religious education program. In searching for teachers I first call those who I think would impart the Good News in the most individual, loving way. Those persons, if they will perform this ministry, select the grade level. This allows me to consider possible grade levels for those yet to be called. Inevitably it seems that Jesus has a hard time with hearts. Some are absolutely not open; some may be next year. I'm always grateful (after a recovery moment, or hour, or day) when someone has been distasteful or closed because including that type of person in the program would not be fair to any group of students; so our Lord does protect us. In the phone conversation, I simply tell the person who I am and immediately tell them why I'm calling, stating the need and what I discern in them as appropriate to this ministry. That comes from the listening stage. I am quite frank about the program, and indicate that this is a ministry lasting for 26 weeks plus teacher preparation nights. Actual preparation will consist of at least one hour a week plus prayer time each day for the students and for themselves so that they will best relay the message of the lesson for the week. During the preparation, each teacher receives all of the material. The greatest aim of this preparation time is a period for the individual to check his/her own relationship with Jesus. Do some persons fade as teachers-yes. They move, change their priorities, feel as though they cannot perform this ministry. What should the recruiter's response be? Loving and supportive. Just because we recruit we are in no position to judge a negative response or an upset in the middle of the year. Simply thank the person for having stepped out in faith . 15 And what should be our response to the \ teachers who meet their class week after week? As a coordinator or director: loving and supportive; continually sharing ideas; being available for any crisis whether it concerns the behavior of a student or the need for a substitute; being there to smile or inquire about them and their family. Getting back to Monday evening dinner, I wonder what the responses will be next week. Mary Jo Gregg Our Lady of Sorrows Parish , Rock Springs, Wyoming CATECHETICAL SUNDAY BOOKLET T he booklet referred to in Felicia McKnight's celebration at St. Augustine's Parish in Providence, Rhode Island (see Celebration Models) contained the following message: Look, I am standing at the door, knocking. If one of you hears me calling and opens the door, I will come in to share his meal, side by side with him (Revelation 3:20). Our Purpose The Religious Education Ministry of St. Augustine's exists to fulfill the last command of Jesus to his apostles, and to all baptized in his name from that time until the coming of his kingdom: "Pro- claim the Good News to All Creation" (Mark 16: 16). The Good News of the Lord Jesus is not just another option for any of us, whether we are children or adults. It is the very source of our lives as individuals, as families, as a parish community. The Good News is this: God Loves Yo~ He has come in our own flesh , in the person of Jesus, to free us Jrom sin and death to which we are all prey, to save us from the forces of evil both internal and external, to empower us to live the full and rich lives of sons and daughters of his Father and ours. He has given us his Spirit to fill us with wisdom so that we might continue to learn to accept Jesus as Lord of our lives. And he has left us his Church whose joyful obligation and privilege it is to teach this Good News of Jesus, who has come among us to live, die and rise again and be present here for us, for all time. As baptized Catholic Christians, we are all heirs to this treasure-but-how are you to know and accept the Good News unless it is preached to you, unless you are taught, unless you are willing to come and see and hear and taste the sweetness of the Lord? To this end, we present ... Then followed a listing of all programs for 1982-83 for children and young people, and coming events for the adults in the parish. Special services of the Religious Education Office were listed and included the Good Newspaper (their newsletter), lending library, and home visitation . The booklet closed with this statement: We welcome you, in the name of the Lord, Jesus, to be an active participant in the religious education in St. Augustine's Parish . You are welcome at any time to visit, write or call the Religious Education Office to express any question, concern or need. 7. APPENDICES BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENTS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 1983 (TWO SUNDAYS BEFORE CATECHETICAL SUNDAY) In two weeks, our parish community will celebrate Catechetical Sunday. This year's theme Called to Be Enter- prising Stewards reminds us that we are called by the Lord to be enterprising stewards of ourselves, of others, and of the world. Catechetical Sunday is celebrated as a tribute to those who serve the parish community by participating in the parish catechetical programs in the schools and in other programs for children and adults. The theme this year reminds all of us that we are called to be enterprising stewards. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1983 Next Sunday is Catechetical Sunday. The theme Called to Be Enterpnsing Stewards reminds us that as members of a Christian community we are stewards of our bodies and our minds; of our sisters and brothers in the human family; of the natural resources in our world; of the faith; and of the word of God which we are called to proclaim. Catechetical Sunday will be our parish community's celebration of stewardship. Please consider being a part of this celebration. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 1983 This Sunday is Catechetical Sunday. The theme is Called to Be Enterprising Stewards. As our community celebrates this theme of stewardship, let us pray for the guidance, strength, and courage that will enable us to be enterprising stewards of our own lives, the lives of others, and of our Catholic faith . 16 BANNER SUGGESTIONS 17 REPRODUCIBLE ART FOR PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS CAilEb t:O BE ENte{PRISING St:EWARbS CA!LEb 'CO BE EN'leRPRISING S'CEWARbS CATECHETICAL SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 1983 LUKE 16:1-8 CATECHETICAL SUNDAY- SEPTEMBER 18, 1983 LUKE 16:1-8 CA]J£b 'CO 13€ EN~PRISING S'CEWARbS CATECHETICAL SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 1983 LUKE 16:1-8 CAJLet:J t:O 13E EN'tERPRISING St:EWARbS CATECHETICAL SUNDAY- SEPTEMBER 18, 1983 LUKE 16:1-8 19 CAJLEb 'CO be ENlERPRISINCj S'CEWARbS CATECHETICAL SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 1983 LUKE 16:1-8 I " I I I I _f/J~ ~~~ : I I __ : I ri lilliiiRr: ' l 1 CAJLEb 'LOBE EN'leRPRISING S'LEWARbS CATECHETICAL SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 1983 LUKE 16:1-8 COMMISSIONING CERTIFICATE/FORM A CAilEb 'CO Be ENteRPRISINCj S'LEWARbS As the Lord Jesus called his Apostles to spread the Good News, so are you called to do the same. ____________________ ,you are called by the parish community of _________________ to the ministry of catechist during the 19 __ school year. God the Father, Jesus, and the Spirit have empowered and commissioned you through baptism to share the Word with conviction, joy, love, enthusiasm, and hope. As pastor and in the name of our parish community, I welcome your response to this call in service to God's people. I offer to share with you our faith, our prayer, our support, and our cooperation. May Jesus Christ, the Word of the Father, deepen your faith in him and in his Church. _____________________ ORE ____________ Pastor ____________ Principal ____________ Date As a sign of my acceptance of this call to ministry and service, I agree to be an enterpris- · ing steward by preparing lessons well, praying for and with my students, and cooperating with my parish and diocesan catechetical programs. I pray that the Lord will fill me with his Word and empower me to proclaim him to the members of his family. ___________ Catechist 23 COMMISSIONING CERTIFICATE/FORM 8 CAJlEb t:O l3e ENteRPRISING St:EWARbS --------------------·you are called by the parish community of _________________ to the ministry of catechist during the 19 __ school year. God the Father, Jesus, and the Spirit have empowered and commissioned you through baptism to share the Word with conviction, joy, love, enthusiasm, and hope. As pastor and in the name of our parish community, I offer to share with you our faith, our prayer, our support, and our cooperation. May Jesus Christ, the Word of the Father, deepen your faith in him and in his Church. ____________ Pastor ____________ Date As a sign of my acceptance of this call to ministry and service, I agree to be an enterpris- ing steward by preparing lessons well, praying for and with my students, and cooperating with my parish and diocesan catechetical programs. I pray that the Lord will fill me with his Word and empower me to proclaim him to the members of his family. ___________ Catechist 25 8. EVALUATION SHEET FOR THE 1983 CATECHETICAL SUNDAY BOOKLET (Would you take a few moments to complete and mail this form? It will help us do a better job next year. Use the back if you need more space. Thank you.) I. How would you rank the usefulness of materials in this booklet? I 2 3 4 5 useless excellent 2. What did you find the most helpful in this booklet? 3. What did you find the least helpful in this booklet? ______________ _ 4. With a view to designing next year's materials: a. What aspect of this year's booklet would you omit? _____________ _ b. What would you add? _______________________ _ c. Would you or your staff be interested in contributing to the preparation of the I984 materials? __ YES __ NO d. If yes, what materials would you be able to contribute? ____________ _ If your parish or diocese created any materials for this year's observance of Catechetical Sunday, would you please send them to us? Name _________________ Position __________ _ Address _____________________________ ___ City _____________ State _______ Zip Code ______ _ Parish Phone No. ______ _ MAIL TO: Representative for Catechetical Ministries Department of Education UNITED STATES CATHOLIC CONFERENCE I3I2 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20005 27 I I I I I I I I I ·I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 8. HOJA DE EVALUACION FOLLETO DEL DOMINGO CATEQUISTICO DE 1983 (;,Podria tomar unos cuantos minutos para llenar esta evaluaci6n? Sus comentarios nos ayu- daran a hacer un mejor trabajo el pr6ximo afio. Que Dios se lo pague.) 1. ;,C6mo clasificaria usted la utilidad de los materiales en este folleto? 1 2 3 4 5 Inutiles __ excelentes __ 2. ;,Que le ayud6 mas en este folleto? ___________________ _ 3. ;,Que le ayud6 menos en este folleto? __________________ _ 4. Con vistas ala preparaci6n de los materiales para el pr6ximo afio: a. ;,Que aspectos de este folleto omitiria? _________________ _ b. ;,Quea~egaria? ________________________ _ c. ;,Estarian usted o su personal interesados en contribuir a la preparaci6n de los materiales para 1984? __ SI __ NO d. Si la respuesta es afrrmativa, ;,que clase de materiales podria enviarnos?· ______ _ Si su parroquia o di6cesis han preparado materiales para la observancia del Domingo Catequis- tico de este afio, ;,podria enviarlos? Nombre Posici6n ________ _ DirecciDn _____________________________ _ Ciudad ____ Estado ____ C6digo postal __ Parroquia _________ Telefono ____ _ ENVIARA: Representante de Educaci6n Religiosa Departamento de Educaci6n Conferencia Cat6lica de los Estados Unidos 1312 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20005 29 I ' j CERTIFICADO DE COMISION/FORMULARIO B lLAMAbOS A SER MAYORbOMOS ASt:Ut:OS La comunidad de la parroquia de llama a _______ _ a ejercer el ministerio de catequista durante el afio escolar de 19_. Dios el Padre, Jesus y el Espiritu Santo le han comisionado y facultado a traves del bautismo para compartir la Palabra con convicci6n, alegria, amor, entusiasmo y esperanza. En mi calidad de pastor y en nombre de la comunidad de nuestra parroquia, ofrezco compartir con usted nuestra fe, nuestras oraciones, nuestro apoyo y nuestra cooperaci6n. Que Jesucristo, la Palabra del Padre, profundice su fe en El y en su Iglesia. ______________ Pastor ______________ Fecha En sefial de aceptaci6n de este llamado al ministerio y servicio, acepto a ser un mayor- domo preparando adecuadamente las lecciones, orando por y con mis estudiantes y cooperando con los programas catequisticos de mi parroquia y di6cesis. Ruego al Senor que me ilumine con su Palabra y me permita proclamarle a los miem- bros de su familia. ____________ Catequista 27 CERTIFICADO DE COMISIONIFORMULARIO A JLAMAbOS A SER MAYORbOMOS AS~U~OS Este es un llamado para difundir la Buena Nueva, como Jesus nuestro Sefior llam6 a sus Ap6stoles. La comunidad de la parroquia de llama a _______ _ a ejercer el niinisterio de catequista durante el afio escolar de 19_. Dios el Padre, Jesus y el Espiritu Santo le han comisionado y facultado a traves del bautismo para compartir la Palabra con convicci6n, alegria, amor, entusiasmo y esperanza. En mi calidad de pastor y en nombre de la comunidad de nuestra parroquia, recibo su respuesta a este llamado de servicio a la grey de Dios. Ofrezco compartir con usted nues- tra fe, nuestras oraciones, nuestro apoyo y nuestra cooperaci6n. Que Jesucristo, la Pala- bra del Padre, profundice su fe en El y en su Iglesia. _______________________ DRE ______________________ Pastor ____________ Director _____________ Fecha En sefial de aceptaci6n a este llamado al ministerio y servicio, acepto a ser un mayordo- mo astuto preparando adecuadamente las lecciones, orando por y con mis estudiantes, y cooperando con los programas catequisticos de mi parroquia y di6cesis. Ruego al Sefior que me ilumine con su Palabra y me permita proclamarle a los miem- bros de su familia. ___________ Catequista 25 -' ' ' --~· IlAMAbOS A SER MAYORbOMOS AS'CU'COS DOMINGO CATEQUISTICO SEPTIEMBRE 18, 1983 LUCAS 16:1-8 I I I I I (j),~ k>jJV"~ I JlAMAbOS A SER MAYORbOMOS AS~U~OS DOMINGO CATEQUISTICO SEPTIEMBRE 18, 1983 LUCAS 16:1-8 ARTE REPRODUCIBLE PARA MATERIALES DE PROMOUON IlAMAbOS A SER MAYORbOMOS AS't:Ut:OS DOMINGO CATEQUISTICO SEPTIEMBRE 18, 1983 LUCAS 16:1-8 lLAMAbOS A SER MAYORbOMOS AS'LU'LOS DOMINGO CATEQUISTICO -SEPTIEMBRE 18, 1983 LUCAS 16:1-8 lLAMAbOS A S€R MAYORbOMOS AS'LU'LOS DOMINGO .CATEQUIST.ICO SEPTIEMBRE 18, 1983 LUCAS 16:1-8 lLAMAbOS A SER MAYORbOMOS AS'CU'COS DOMINGO CATEQUISTICO-SEPTIEMBRE 18, 1983 LUCAS 16:1-8 21 SUGERENCIAS PARA ESTANDARTES 19 7. APENDICES ANUNCIOS PARA EL BOLETIN DOMINGO 4 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1983 (Dos domingos antes del Domingo Catequistico) En dos semanas Ia comunidad de nuestra parroquia cele- brani el Domingo Catequistico. El tema de este afio, Llama- dos a ser mayordomos astutos, nos recuerda que somas lla- mados por el Sefior a ser mayordomos astutos de nosotros mismos, de los demas y del mundo. El Domingo Catequistico se celebra como un tributo a quienes sirven a Ia comunidad de Ia parroquia participando en los programas catequisticos en las escuelas y en otros pro- gramas para nifios y adultos. El tema de este afio nos recuer- da que estamos llamados a ser mayordomos astutos. DOMINGO 11 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1983 El proximo domingo es el Domingo Catequistico. El tema, Llamados a ser mayordomos astutos, nos recuerda que como miembros de una comunidad cristiana somas mayordomos de nuestros cuerpos y de nuestras mentes; de nuestras hermanas y hermanos en Ia familia humana, de los recursos naturales que nos rodean, de Ia fe y de Ia palabra de Dios que estamos llamados a proclamar. El Domingo Catequistico sera para Ia comunidad de nues- tra parroquia una celebraci6n de servicio. Les rogamos que consideren formar parte de esta celebraci6n. DOMINGO 18 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1983 Este domingo es el Domingo Catequistico. El tema es Llamados a ser mayordomos astutos. AI celebrar nuestra comunidad este tema de servicio, oremos par Ia decisi6n, Ia fortaleza y el coraje que nos permitiran ser mayordomos astutos de nuestras propias vidas, de Ia vidas de los demas y de nuestra fe cat6lica. 17 FOLLETO DEL DOMINGO CATEQUISTICO E I folleto al que se hace referencia en Ia celebraci6n de Felicia McKnight en Ia parroquia de San Agustin, en Rhode Island (vease Modelos de Celebraci6n), contenia el siguiente mensaje: "Mira que estoy a la puerta y llama; si alguien escucha mi voz y me abre entrare a su casa a comer. Yo con ely el conmigo" (Rev. 3:20) Nuestro proposito El ministerio de educaci6n religiosa de San Agustin existe para cumplir el ultimo mandato de Jesus a sus ap6stoles, y a todos los bautizados en su nombre desde ese momento hasta Ia llegada de su Reino: "Vayan por todo el mundo y anuncien Ia Buena Nueva a toda Ia creaci6n" (Marcos 16:15). La Buena Nueva de Jesus nuestro Senor noes simplemente otra opci6n para nosotros, ya se trate de nifios o de adultos. Constituye Ia fuente misma de nuestras vidas como individuos, como familias, como comunidad parroquial. La Buena Nueva es: Dios te ama. Ha venido en nuestra carne, en Ia persona de Jesus, para liberamos del pecado y de Ia muerte de los que todos somos victimas para salvar- nos de las fuerzas del mal intemas y extemas, para permitimos vivir las vidas plenas y ricas de los hijos e hijas de su padre y el nuestro. Nos ha dado su Espiritu para colmarnos de sabiduria para que podamos continuar aprendiendo a aceptar a Jesus como Senor de nuestras vidas. Y nos ha dejado su Iglesia, cuyo bienaventurado pri- vilegio y obligaci6n es ensenar esa Buena Nueva de Jesus, que ha llegado entre nosotros para vivir, morir y resucitar y estar aqui pre- sente por nosotros, para siempre. Como cristianos cat6licos bautizados, todos somos herederos de este tesoro, pero l,C6mo se conocera y aceptara Ia Buena Nueva si no se predica, si no se ensena, si no se esta dispuesto a venir y ver y oir y saborear Ia dulzura del Senor? Con este fm, presentamos ... Luego sigue una lista de todos los programas para 1982-1983 des- tinados a los nifios y j6venes, y los pr6ximos eventos para los adultos de Ia parroquia. Se indican los servicios especiales de Ia Oficina de Educaci6n Religiosa, incluyendo el boletin Good News- paper, Ia biblioteca circulante y Ia visitaci6n del hogar. El folleto concluye con Ia siguiente declaraci6n. "Le invitamos, en nombre de Jesus nuestro Senor, a ser un ac- tivo participante de los programas de ensenanza religiosa de Ia parroquia de San Agustin. Le invitamos a que en cualquier momento visite, escriba o llame a Ia Oficina de Educaci6n Reli- giosa para hacemos llegar cualquier pregunta, preocupaci6n o necesidad." 16 RECLUTANDO MAESTROS E !Junes pasado por Ia noche, mientras disfrutabamos de nuestra cena familiar, surgio Ia pregunta habitual, "(.Que aprendiste hoy en Ia clase de religion?" En nuestro pueblo, las cla- ses de enseiianza religiosa tienen Iugar los Junes por Ia tarde, y ese es el tema natural durante Ia cena. Como nos sentamos alrededor de Ia mesa de manera muy democratica, los grados no apareceran en secuencia. Nuestra hija (no muy piadosa) que esta en segundo grado nos dijo "1,Por que hueles como un mani? Porque estuviste sentada con un elefante". Nuestro hijo de cuarto grado dijo que "habian estudiado el Cuarto Mandarniento con todas sus implicaciones". Nuestro otro hijo, que esta en primer grado, dijo que habian apren- dido "sabre Dios". Nuestro hijo de quinto grado habia discutido las sagradas ordenes y sus tres partes. Por ultimo, nuestra hija de tercer grado nos hablo de Esteban, el primer martir. Esto ocurre durante Ia cena de todos los Junes. No diria que resulta cansador. 1,Por que? Porque todas las semanas saben que se les hara esa pre- gunta. Su endeble hora de enseiianza religiosa formal es importante. Por eso Ia discutimos. En todas esas respuestas detectamos Ia dedicacion, Ia preocupa- cion y Ia preparacion del maestro. 1,De donde vienen estos maestros voluntarios? Fueron reclutados. 1,Por quien? Por Jesus nuestro Seiior. El reclutarniento de maestros de enseiianza religiosa es Ia experiencia que consume mas tiempo, Ia mas formidable y maravi- llosa que he tenido como Directora de Educacion Religiosa. AI efectuar el reclutarniento: 1) Escucho, escucho atentamente. No, noes una repeticion: jqueria agregarle el mayor enfasis posible! 2) Pregunto a otros miembros de Ia parroquia que tambien escu- chan, quien creen que podria hacerse cargo, con entusiasmo, de una clase. 3) Recorro atentamente las listas de miembros de Ia parroquia. Me pregunto si nuestros hijos se sentirian confortables de que tal persona les enseiie sabre Dios. 4) Oro. En mis oraciones le digo a Jesus cuantos maestros creo que necesita de acuerdo con el numero de inscriptos, y le pido que abra suficientes corazones para que esas personas se presenten. 5) Comienzo a hacer llamadas telefonicas a principios de agosto. Dios no llama por telefono. Las llamadas se realizan por arden de prioridades: un coordina- dor patrocinador de oraciones, maestros, secretarias, personal de atencion de los niiios, y luego los sustitutos. Un coordinador patro- cinador de oraciones es Ia persona que recluta un compaiiero anoni- mo de oraciones para todas las personas que trabajan en el pro- grama de enseiianza religiosa. AI buscar maestros, llama primero a aquellos que pienso impartirian Ia Buena Nueva en forma mas indi- vidual y mas afectuosa. Esa persona, si ha de realizar este ministe- rio, selecciona el grado. Ello me permite considerar los posibles grados a asignarse a las personas que aun falta llamar. Inevitable- mente, parece que Jesus tiene dificultades con los corazones. Algunos decididamente no estan abiertos; otros lo estaran e1 aiio proximo. Siempre agradezco (despues de un momenta, hora o dia de recuperacion) cuando alguien se ha mantenido cerrado o ha sido desagradable, porque mcluir a ese tipo de personas en el programa 15 no hubiera sido justa a ningiln grupo de estudiantes. Nuestro Seiior nos protege. Durante Ia conversacion telefonica, simplemente le digo a Ia per- sona quien soy e inrnediatamente le comunico Ia raz6n de mi llama- do, manifestandole Ia necesidad que existe y por que creo que es Ia persona apropiada para este ministerio. Ello es el resultado de Ia etapa en Ia que he escuchado. Soy bastante franca sabre el pro- grama, y le seiialo que este es un ministerio que tiene 26 semanas de duracion, mas Ia preparaci6n de los maestros por las naches. La preparacion consistira en una hora semanal, por lo menos, mas un periodo de oraciones cada dia para los estudiantes y para ellos mismos, para que puedan transmitir mejor el mensaje de Ia lecci6n de Ia semana. Durante Ia preparacion, cada maestro recibe todos los materiales necesarios, Ia lista de los alurnnos, e instrucciones especificas. La fmalidad principal de este periodo de preparaci6n es proporcionar un tiempo para que Ia persona pueda verificar su propia relaci6n con Jesus. l,Algunas personas dejan de ser maestros? Si. Se mudan, cambian sus prioridades, sienten que no pueden llevar a cabo el ministerio. 1,Cu