Catechists Know How August 2009

Spiritual Checkup

by Mary Lou Rosien

As summer winds down my kids have their annual physical exams.  Many of them play sports and we need all their shots, measurements and exams up to date before school starts.  As I was preparing all their paperwork, I couldn’t help but wonder if I am as conscientious about their spiritual health.

What do our students and our own children need for their spiritual well-being?  They need instruction, example, the Sacraments and prayer.

• Instruction:  Are my own children and those I have influence over signed up for faith formation classes and/or youth group?  Have I spent time organizing my fall lesson plan, trips or activities that we could do as a group? Effective teaching doesn’t just happen; it requires thought and planning. 

“Wisdom becomes known through speech, and education through the words of the tongue.” Sirach 4:24

• Example:  Have I continued my own faith formation education?  Do I take advantage of church Bible Studies, Catechism classes, or done any studying on my own?  Have I gone to any Catholic Conferences, listened to Catholic speakers (on the radio, television, or in person)?  Do I regularly receive the Sacraments?  When is the last time I went to Confession?  Have I missed Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation?  Am I living out my own vocation in a way that is a good example to my students and those around me?

“Seek advice from every wise person and do not despise any useful counsel.” Tobit 4:18

• Sacraments:  As teachers, we may have the opportunity to provide access for our students to receive the Sacraments.  Can we consider having a Mass to start our religious school year?  Have I asked the parish priest if he has time to come and hear my class’s confessions?  Could I have speakers come in to my class and discuss their vocations (priest, nun, married person, consecrated single person)?  Can I personally name all seven Sacraments?  Can my students?

There are many wonderful tools to assist in a good examination of conscience.  These provide a check-up list to see how we and our students are doing in our faith journey.  Utilizing these on a regular basis will help us stay spiritually healthy.

“ I am the Lord your God, sanctify yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy.” Leviticus 11:44

• Prayer: I am always amazed at how often I forget to pray about teaching.  Really!  I go to Mass, say my rosary and talk to God, and yet I forget to pray about something as important as teaching. Ugh. Remembering to share our struggles, hopes and dreams about teaching the faith will provide great fruit in our teaching efforts.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17

Mary Lou Rosien is the author of Managing Stress with the Help of your Catholic Faith (OSV Publishing). Write to her at mrosien@rochester.rr.com.