Requirements for Basic Catechist Certification
· Completion of course work using Echoes of Faith video series and reflection paper.
o Workshops can apply but the series has valuable insights for even long-time catechist and is highly suggested for all catechists (including deacons and other ministers of the community)
· The Catechetical Leader of the parish keeps records of classes and reflection papers completed.
o The diocese office does not keep records on individual catechists.
o It is the responsibility of the catechist to share with the Catechetical Leader any workshops or classes taken outside of those offered by the Religious Education office of the parish.
o The Catechetical Leader and pastor will determine where and if a workshop will apply to certification.
· The catechist is required to complete a yearly retreat/reflection experience either at the parish, regional or diocesan level. Outside retreats are appropriate as well as the spirituality module of Echoes of Faith when it is not used for the required module for certification.
o This will be recorded in the Parish Religious Education office.
· All Catechists who are in the process of obtaining their certification are to be observed in the classroom by the Catechetical Leader once each year.
o Forms to complete this element can be found in the Diocese of Reno Catechist Certification manual appendix section.
· Upon completion of all elements of certification process the parish Catechetical Leader will submit a list of those catechists who have met all the requirements to the Diocesan Office of Faith Formation and Certificates will be issued and returned for distribution at the parish.
· Maintaining certification requires that catechists continue their education in order to become better equipped to proclaim the Good News.
o Within a THREE year period a catechist needs to accumulate
§ 3 clock hours in Catholic Doctrine.
§ 3 clock hours in Catholic Morality.
§ 3 clock hours in Scripture.
§ 3 clock hours in Sacraments and/or Liturgy.
§ 3 clock hours in Prayer and Spirituality.
§ A yearly retreat is also required.
o The parish will maintain records of this ongoing work and send the list of re-certified catechist in, as necessary.
A certificate for maintenance of certification is conferred every three years when the requirements have been met.