Catechist Formation
 

All catechists working with adults, youth and children must be prepared to hand on our faith to the best of their ability.   The Diocese of Richmond has established Catechetical Norms “Called to be Disciples” for all parishes to accomplish a certification process. 

For those working with children and youth you must complete the following two prerequisites: 

1. VIRTUS: “Protecting God’s Children”.  This consists of a one-time 3 hour facilitated session that addresses the signs of abused children and potential abusers and what to do if abuse is suspected.  Monthly on-line bulletins are associated with the program to keep everyone up to date in this particular problem area.

To Register for the facilitated sessions: Go to www.virtusonline.org and choose “Registration,” then highlight “Diocese of Richmond” from the drop down menu. Press SELECT. Fill in your information and submit. Choose the green arrow next to “I would like to attend….” Then select the training called “Protecting God’s Children for ADULTS” on date and place of.  There is no charge for this training. It is mandated by the USCCB Dallas Charter that all diocesan employees, clergy, religious, teachers, staff, and all volunteers who work with children or youth take this training in the coming year.  Questions: contact Deacon Mike Johnson at 479-9897. 

2. Background Checks:  The diocese also has established a process where all volunteers (ages 16 and older) working with children and youth will fill-out background check paperwork, these documents are then processed through Child Protective Services and with “Choicepoint” Volunteer Select. 

 PATHWAYS

PATHWAYS is a diocesan instituted self-paced catechist formation on-line course of study.  There are two categories for parish catechists.  The first two years focuses on becoming a “parish” catechist and the next two years on becoming a “senior” catechist.  Follow-on annual formation will also be required for those responsible for “handing on the faith” to children, youth and adults.   The link below will guide you through further information.

Link - www.richmonddiocese.org/ocf/pathways/gettingstarted

New catechists will complete “Volunteer” background checks, attend VIRTUS to start and then complete PATHWAYS for “parish” catechist within two years. 

Certified “Parish” Catechist will complete the PATHWAYS “senior catechist” within two years. 

Certified “Senior” Catechist will complete 5 hours of annual formation training and ensure background checks remain current (good for 4 years). 

Please call Nancy or Deacon Mike at 479-9897 to let us know if you desire to be a catechist or catechist aide. 

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