STANDARDS FOR THE DIOCESAN CATECHIST CERTIFICATION CATECHIST FORMATION COURSE
Content
A. Course of Studies to Obtain Diocesan Certification
The course of studies is consistent with the Catechism of the Catholic Church, The General Catechetical Directory and the National Catechetical Directory.
1. Doctrinal Development
a) Profession of Faith
Revelation
Scripture/Tradition
Faith Response
Trinity and the image of God
Christology
Redemption
Church
Mary and Saints
b) Celebration of the Christian Mystery
Paschal Mystery
Sacrament Theology
Liturgy
Sacraments of Initiation/Sacraments of Healing
Sacraments at the Service of Communion
c) Life in Christ
Dignity of Human Person (Virtues)
Sin, Grace, Redemption
Ten Commandments & Beatitudes
Catholic Social Teaching
Conscience Formation/Decision Making
d) Christian Prayer
Call to Prayer
Lord’s Prayer
Prayer/Worship
Prayer Styles
Leading Prayer
2. The Nature of Catechesis and Catechetical Development
Faith and Human Development
Nature of Catechesis
Catechetical Process
Nature of Culture as a context for catechesis and religion
Evangelization and initiation
Learning styles & Teaching styles
Use of media and technology
Resources
Specialization: Certification for specialized areas (pre-school, elementary, youth ministry, young adults, RCIA, adults, those with special needs, specific cultural groups, etc.) should include formation pertinent to that particular specialty. Certificates should indicate special areas of competence. A comprehensive course of formation and instruction should cover the above-mentioned content areas.
3. Spiritual Development of the Catechist
The course of study should include opportunities and directions in personal spiritual development.
Process
B. Diocesan Catechist Certification
A Catechist will receive a Diocesan Catechist Certification from their diocese upon:
1. Satisfactory completion of the Diocesan Catechist program of formation and study identified above (see Section A, above);
2. One year of catechetical experience;
3. Evaluation of performance. This includes and observation and evaluation of at least one catechetical session;
4. Attendance at Diocesan-sponsored retreat for Catechist.
C. Expiration and Renewal
This certificate expires in three (3) years after the date of issue. To renew this certificate, the Catechist shall complete at least five (5) hours annually in the above-mentioned content areas during the life of the certificate. The choice of courses and plan must have the prior approval of the appropriate diocesan office (see Appendix page 33_. The Catechist must demonstrate on-going religious education and formation in accordance with the above content areas and diocesan requirements.
D. Alternative Methods to Obtain a Basic Certificate
Each diocese may establish alternative methods to obtain an initial certificate. There are three basic alternatives for eligibility in the Diocese of Reno:
1. Recent completion of a degree program or college-level course work in religious education from a Catholic college, evidence of on-going professional development, and proven experience in catechetical ministry; or
2. Proven catechetical experience of at least four (4) years, evidence of on-going professional development, and demonstrable knowledge of the content areas.
3. Successful completion of the Diocesan Genesis program.