Last week we recognized our catechists, commissioned them for ministry, and prayed for them and all the children and adults who come to them to learn. I am truly grateful to these leaders, teachers, and guides. Our staff members – Alma Vazquez, Br. Jacob Sircy, Susan Perrault and Lupita Dorado  – have been planning and organizing with volunteers for weeks in order to begin the year with energy and hope. I pray for their success as well.

Every year you hear me and others make announcements in order to invite parishioners to consider teaching. I know that when I left for my vacation that we were still short a couple of teachers/catechists. I hope that by now those shortages are resolved by the recognition that the gift of teaching belongs to all of us, and the gift to be catechist belongs to many of us. Teaching requires learning. Many lack confidence to volunteer because they think they do not know their own faith well enough. But, that is a reason to volunteer in itself, because, as I just wrote, teaching requires learning. You get to learn and share with the students. You do not have to know every answer to their questions, only demonstrate the willingness to help find the answer. What a great opportunity.

As priest and pastor I can assure you that sometimes I respond to questions with “I do not know. I will try to find the answer.” If I do not know the answer, I am not going to lie, nor am I embarrassed. I know that I do not know all things. Socrates says such an admission is the sign of a wise person! I know that there are many wise persons in our parish. 

I invite you to continue to think about your role in educating children and other adults in the faith. Be willing to learn more. For those who have passed the age where they can do such ministry, please pray for and encourage those you know who may be capable. When we pray “for vocations,” let us include a pray for the vocation of lay persons to pass on the Catholic faith and tradition, as well to sanctify the world in which we live.

 Peace, Fr. Andy