I didn’t really start out as wanting to be a catechist.  I remember being in grade school, and thinking, “Why would anyone want to be a teacher?”

Fast forward to 1990 and I am driving and escorting my oldest daughter, Pauline, into Religious Ed to be an aide.  There was some commotion in the office, and I realized that a seasoned catechist was unable to fulfill her obligation due to a sudden illness.  There I was saying, “I could help out.  Do I need a teaching degree?”  I needed love for and a basic knowledge of my Catholic faith.  I had that.  How could I say No?? 

Well, that was over 25 years ago, and I keep coming back.  The more I teach my Catholic faith, the more I love my Catholic faith.  Our faith is a genius (well, it’s from God) plan, to surrender our lives to Jesus Christ and follow His path for us.  Even though I am teaching 4^th grade religion (which I know), it gives me a thirst to learn (and love) more about Jesus and my faith.  Seeing children’s eyes light up when they understand something, still wanting to continue when a class just doesn’t ‘go right,’ coming back after you feel ‘burned out,’ signing up for the next year.  The benefits totally outweigh the work that gets put into a class.  I love my faith, how can I NOT pass it on!

Step out of your comfort zone!  I certainly did.  I could not believe that those words of volunteering were coming out of my mouth in 1990.  But the Holy Spirit ALWAYS helps when you say ‘yes!’  Give it a try!  Open yourself to the possibilities!

My husband Jim and I have been in the parish since 1987.  We are involved with lecturing, Eucharistic Ministry, Right to Life, Ministers of Care (Jim), RCIA (Jim), Holy Hour, Adoration, LOTW, and Fall Fest.