7 Secrets You've Got to Know!

Seven Secrets for Recruiting

Training, and Retaining Catechists

 By Joseph P. White, Ph.D.

1. When recruiting catechists, advertise that training is available. Some individuals might wish to volunteer, but wonder if they have the skills for this ministry.

2. A personal invitation is a powerful motivator. Identify individuals that you feel might make great catechists (e.g., parents who are active in the parish, professional educators, etc.) and invite them to share their gifts in this ministry

3. Advertise a “catechist assistant” position for each pre-K through high school group. Ask parents of children in the class to volunteer their time to assist the catechist, either weekly or once a month, on a rotating basis. This helps improve adult/child ratios and classroom management and appeals to individuals who might want to help, but feel that teaching is not their gift.

4. Think broadly when conducting trainings for catechists. Many catechists need training in multiple areas, such as basic Church teachings, classroom management, and teaching methods. OSV has a variety of catechist training products to meet each of these needs.

5. Inspire catechists by linking their work to the Church’s larger mission of evangelization. Help them to know that they are sowing the seeds of the Gospel and growing the Church through their efforts.

The new National Directory for Catechesis and Catechist’s Companion to the NDC are helpful resources.  Click here to order The Cathechist's Companion»

6. Keep on hand some quick and easy activity ideas that can fit multiple themes. Let catechists know that when they need an additional activity idea, they can come to you for suggestions.

See the OSV book, Seven Secrets for Successful Catechists for suggestions. Click here to order»

7. Check in on a regular basis with your catechists. Visit the catechetical sessions when possible, and afterwards, ask catechists how things are going and if there is anything they need. A little troubleshooting can help you identify frustrations early and prevent burnout on the part of the catechist.