Elementary Catechesis & Catechist Certification

Services

 

  • Curriculum Library
  • Textbook evaluation and selection
  • Sacramental preparation in-services
  • Catechumenate for children
  • Evaluation of parish catechetical programs
  • Workshops, presentations, and in-services on formation & religion topics
  • Generations of Faith training
  • Parished Based Curriculum Standards 

 

 

Catechist Training and Certification

 

The General Directory for Catechesis calls for a comprehensive and systematic catechetical formation of catechists encompassing study of the Christian message, understanding of human nature, the socio-cultural situation and pedagogy of the faith or catechetical process. (GDC 249, 234 & 238)

 

For the next schedule of training opportunities call Cathi Snyder (402) 554-8493 or email cmsnyder@archomaha.org.

 

Basic Catechist Certification (Level I)

 

The Basic Catechist Certification (Level I) program is based on the “Echoes of Faith” process developed by the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL) and produced by Resources for Christian Living, Allen, Texas (RCL).

 

“Echoes of Faith” is a video-assisted resource for the training and formation of beginning and experienced catechists. The program is comprised of ten modules covering five topics. A module includes a video, accompanying booklet and discussion session. Each module must be led by a trained facilitator who is designated by the Archdiocesan Catholic Faith Formation Office.  Those catechists seeking certification at this level should approach their parish Director of Religious Education for further information.

 

Master Catechist Certification (Level II)

 

A Master Catechist is one who has been a catechist for several years, has a particular love for passing on the faith to others, and feels called in a special way to this ministry.  A Master Catechist is one with advantaged training and formation in knowledge and skills for the ministry of Catechesis.

 

Master Catechist Certification process is competency-based, enabling catechists to achieve a higher level of competence in Catechetical Skills, Catholic Theology, Scripture and Spirituality while following the principles of adult learning.

 

Those desiring Master Catechist (Level II) Certification are expected to:

 

  • Be certified at Basic Catechist (Level I)
  • Work with a mentor
  • Conduct a self-assessment to determine competencies
  • Develop a learning plan aimed at the competency Standards
  • Keep a journal and portfolio of educational experiences
  • Interview with an approved Archdiocesan “Certification Reviewer”

Those seeking this level of certification should approach their parish Director of Religious Education for further information. 

 

Professional Catechist (Level III)


Those catechists who desire further training and wish to achieve a level above the Master Catechist may seek Professional Catechist Certification. Professional Catechist Certification in the Archdiocese of Omaha requires 15 credit hours or continuing education units of theology or religious studies from a Catholic college or university, or other accredited program approved by the Archdiocese with at least one 3 credit equivalent course in catechetics or religious education.

 

Renewals

 

1. All certificates are valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issue. Certificates not renewed within that time frame are considered lapsed.

 

2. Certificate renewal requires 20 clock hours of learning experiences. This can be gained either through participation in workshops, classes or experiences that relate to Scripture, Theology/Doctrine, Catechetics, or Spirituality.

 

3. Because the goals of certification are ongoing growth and the updating on one’s background as a catechist, the 20 hours should be spread over the four subject areas listed in #2.

 

4. When a certificate has lapsed, an additional 4 clock hours of learning experiences per delinquent year must be added to the 20 hour requirement for renewal. When 30 or more hours are owed, the learning experiences must cover all four subject areas.

 

 

 

Catechetical Leader Training and Certification

 

Archdiocesan DRE Certification

 

The professional level of catechist certification is promoted for the paid full or part-time parish catechetical leader. Professional Catechist Certification, along with regular attendance in the New and Nearly New DRE Course qualifies a person as a DRE certified by the Catholic Faith Formation Office. This Archdiocesan DRE Certification qualifies one to be a voting member of the National Conference of Catechetical Leadership (NCCL).

 

Grandparenting Provision and equivalencies from outside the Archdiocese of Omaha:

 

DREs presently serving in parishes for three years or more who do not meet the above criteria, may be considered for Archdiocesan DRE Certification. They should submit a portfolio of continuing education experiences gained throughout their catechetical service.

 

DREs who have participated in certification programs in other dioceses may submit those credentials for certification in the Archdiocese of Omaha. A letter of reference from their former diocesan office is required.

 

 

 

Networking and resourcing parishes and catechetical leaders

 

RELCO/RELCO-R

 

The Religious Education Leaders and Coordinators of Omaha (RELCO & RELCO-R [rural]) are independent organizations of Catechetical leaders who meet regularly for mutual support, professional and personal growth, sharing of resources and programs.

 

RELCO is a member of the National Conference of Catechetical Leadership (NCCL). For information contact Shane Fagan at religiouseddirector@msn.com, RELCO or Ann McManigal (anniemcmanigal@hotmail.com, RELCO-R.