Sr. Cheryl Clemons, OSU, addresses catechists during the April 2024 catechist retreat held at Gasper River Catholic Youth Camp and Retreat Center in Bowling Green. COURTESY OF DCN. JAY W. VANHOOSIER
Faith Formation: Encouraging catechetical leader formation
BY DCN. JAY W. VANHOOSIER, OFFICE OF FAITH FORMATION
The Office of Faith Formation plays a pivotal role in nurturing and empowering catechists, the torchbearers of parish religious education. Through its various formation efforts, it has impacted both the spiritual growth of catechetical leaders and the vibrancy of Catholic communities.
By providing formation opportunities, resources, and ongoing support, the Office of Faith Formation equips catechetical leaders with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual depth needed to effectively transmit the richness of the Catholic faith and to form disciples of the Kingdom. These leaders, in turn, become catalysts for transformation within the programs they lead within their parishes and beyond.
Eucharistic Adoration is held during the April 2023 catechist retreat, which was held at Gasper River Catholic Youth Camp and Retreat Center. COURTESY OF DCN. JAY W. VANHOOSIER
Moreover, the Office of Faith Formation’s formation initiatives foster a deeper understanding of Catholic teachings, cultivates a personal relationship with God, and nurtures a spirit of service and evangelization. As catechetical leaders grow in their faith and competence, they inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of spiritual renewal and community engagement.
Finally, the Office of Faith Formation’s emphasis on ongoing formation ensures that catechetical leaders remain dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of the faithful in their care. This commitment to excellence in catechetical leadership not only strengthens the Church’s educational mission but also enriches the lives of countless individuals who seek truth, meaning, and connection in their journey of faith.
Dcn. Jay W. VanHoosier, director of the Diocese of Owensboro’s Office of Faith Formation, speaks at the April 2024 catechist retreat held at Gasper River Catholic Youth Camp and Retreat Center in Bowling Green. COURTESY OF DCN. JAY W. VANHOOSIER
Dcn. Jay W. VanHoosier is the director of the Office of Faith Formation in the Diocese of Owensboro.
Originally printed in the June 2024 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.
