Parish catechist representatives from across our diocese met on Saturday 26th March at the St Thomas Centre, Northampton for the third annual AGM. Joined by Bishop David they discussed the joys and challenges of catechesis as they continue to discern what the Spirit is saying across our diocese.
Following an opening prayer and time of general sharing, Bishop David spoke and thanked them for their hard work and recognised that our diverse diocese was reflected in the catechetical needs from area to area. He reinforced his vision for our diocese to create missionary disciples and within this he senses that they all are facing similar challenges.
As we attempt to face these challenges Bishop David encouraged the catechists to find ways of working together and breaking down the boundaries of individual parishes. He asked them to share resources, work together to build a vibrancy to our mission
“Where you have small groups of people for catechesis, say one or two on the RCIA program, join with the pastoral area to catechise in groups of twenty. This will change the experience for the catechist and those engaging with the process”
In conclusion the bishop challenged the catechists to be radical saying,
“This is our expression of the radical Gospel that Jesus Christ proclaimed. Don’t be afraid to praclaim the Gospel with integrity. Our young people will respond positively”
Organiser Alex Heath invited all those present to join the Kerygma course.