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Religious Education ADULT RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

RCIA Training These four sessions will develop an understanding of the vision of the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process for those interested in becoming Catholic. The course provides for a practical implementation of the periods of rites and teaches the skills necessary for directors, catechists (teachers) and team members.

Baptismal Preparation Training
      A four-hour- course designed to empower parish leaders to
facilitate baptismal ministry programs. A great course for those who
desire a more active role in helping to minister to families who wish
to have their children baptized.

The Fruits of Being a Welcoming Parish
     Offered upon request, this adult education offering is open to
parish secretaries, DREs, pastors, ministry leaders, parishioners and
just about anyone who feels that their parish has a role to play in the
ecumenical church. Suggestions for creating a welcoming and vibrant
parish community are offered as well as tips for creating a ministry
that would welcome new members, while also cherishing those who
have been with you for years or even generations.

Images of Jesus- through Art.
     Based on the fascinating documentary The Face: Jesus in Art.
Offer an evening, or day, of reflection on the images of Jesus as seen
through historical interpretations of Jesus through the eyes of artists
over the years.

The Spirituality of Christian Parenting
     DVD series based on the parenting tips of Drs Les & Leslie Parrott,
featuring an approach for teenagers as well as younger children based on
the 10 Biblical Traits Your Kids Will Remember You For. Can be set up as
a series to view and discuss the DVDs and related biblical passages for
each theme over a five-week or five-month period.

Vatican II: Then and Now
     The time of Vatican II in the early 1960s brought many together
for a renewal, an “aggiornamento,” of the Church. The huge undertaking
was also meant to “foster whatever can promote union among all who
believe in Christ.” But just how far we have really come in realizing some
of the key points outlines in this initiative prompted by Pope XXIII.

FURTHER ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Diocesan Catechetical Congress (held every year in November)
New England Catechetical Convocation
Pre-Convocation RCIA (held in August every other year)
New England Adult Faith Symposium – (held in August every other year)
The Elms College ITPS Programs

A certificate of completion of the courses above will be given, which is a step toward Certification in Lay Ministry as a parish catechist.

For further information contact Sr. Carol Datz, SSND 413-452-0813 or by email CONTACT US.

For information on training of catechists (religion teachers) see the CATECHIST page.

For information on training for catechetical leaders, see the CATECHETICAL LEADERS page.