The Religious Formation Program at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church relies on the generosity of time and talent from volunteer catechists. Each year, over 100 catechists are needed. Two catechists are assigned to each classroom, which may have as many as 20 children. Orientation sessions are scheduled at the beginning of the year to provide information and guidance to volunteers.
Catechists are encouraged to remain in the same grade level each year to gain experience and expertise in the curriculum. Classrooms are designed to include two catechists who coordinate lesson plans for their class based on a predetermined syllabus aligned with their grade level. This encourages the formation of individual classroom cultures and relationships, inviting catechists to find what works best for their students to learn and grow.
SAFE AND SACRED TRAINING All those who volunteer with children in any capacity are required to complete an online Safe & Sacred training course once every three years. Learn more about Safe & Sacred
CATECHIST FAITH FORMATION
Catechist formation sessions are held throughout the year to provide formation opportunities for all catechists on their own personal faith journeys.
Preschool Catechists
Ideal catechists for this group would be individuals without preschool-aged children, so that parents can attend Mass with their families during class time. Formation sessions for children ages 3- Pre-K are offered on: Sundays from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Elementary Catechists
Formation sessions for Grades K-5 are offered on: Sundays from 10:45 - 11:45 a.m. Wednesdays from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Middle School Catechists
Formation sessions for grades 6-7 are held on: Sunday mornings at 10:45-11:45 a.m. Monday afternoons at 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday afternoons at 4:30- 5:30 p.m.
High School Catechists
Formation sessions for grades 9-12 are held on: Sunday evenings at 7:00-8:00 p.m.
SUBSITUTE
Substitute catechists are required when a regular catechist is unable to attend.