Adult Catechesis
-
Catechesis of adults is the principal (first) form of catechesis because it is “addressed to the persons who have the greatest responsibility and the capacity to live the Christian message in its fully developed form” (Pope John Paul II, Catechesi Tradendae 43).
Lending Library / Bible Studies
Looking for things to view at home?
Consider joining Formed.org. You woud have access to a library of bible studies and great movies.
Have you seen "The Chosen"? Its a great new miniseries on the life of Jesus. You can watch the first few episodes on Youtube and also behind the scenes takes. You can also download the Chosen App to your devices. There are eight episodes available for free on the Chosen App.
The Office of Evangelization and Catechesis provides resources for home study or parish-based study groups. See lending library catalog for available titles. This includes resources from the following publishers:- Ascension Press (such as the Great Adventure Bible Timeline)
- Word on Fire
- Augustine Institute
- ... and others
Knowing the Scriptures is a Bible Study program consisting of a series of lessons and accompanying lectures (available in video, on television in select areas and in audio formats), as well as a study guide or book containing written answers to the questions. The courses and material are provided by Fargo resident Dr. Jan George. Please visit Sacred Heart Productionsfor full details.
Programs
Fargo Catechetical Institute
Visit the Fargo Catechetical Institute page for information on the formation of and resources for catechists.
St. John Bosco Conference
The Saint John Bosco Conference is held annually in July at the Franciscan University of Steubenville (25 minutes west of Pittsburgh airport). Join priests, deacons, Catholic school personnel, religious educators, DRE’s, RCIA teams, Youth Ministers and catechists from around the country for five days of retreat and training. Visit the St. John Bosco Conference website for more details.
Augustine Institute
The Augustine Institute is highly recommended for their distance education programs including a concentration in Evangelization & Catechesis and Catholic Youth Ministry.
Catholic Distance University
The Catholic Distance University offers online courses and seminars for catechists, DRE's, and adults.
St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
The St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology’s Salvation History has many resources available, including online Bible Studies, a library, podcasts, and much more.
Small Faith Sharing Groups
Men’s Groups / Women’s GroupsEndow
ENDOW (for women) is an education program that brings women together to discover their God-given dignity and to understand their role in humanizing and transforming society. As a basis for discovery, ENDOW promotes the New Feminism, which is defined by Pope John Paul II. The New Feminism recognizes and affirms the “true genius of women” and responds to our culture’s desperate need for an authentic feminine presence in every aspect of life and society.
That Man is You!
That Man Is You! (for men) is transforming men, families and society as it presents the vision of man fully alive! Combining the teachings of the Church and wisdom of the saints with the best research from modern science in an interactive, multimedia format, That Man Is You! puts this vision within the grasp of every man.
Be a Man
Be a Man - Catholic Scripture Study (for men) by Fr. Larry Richards. It includes a 10 session study guide and 5 DVDs. Perfect for advent and lent.
Renewal Opportunities
There are many formats and programs for parish renewal:
- Light of the World
- Christ Renews His Parish
- Cursillo
- Life in the Spirit
- The Prayer, Healing and Retreats page lists additional opportunities
Parish Team
Making adult catechesis the primary focus may be a new endeavor for your parish. One way to begin is for the pastor along with a few adult parishioners to form a think-tank which should:
- pray for guidance from the Holy Spirit
- assess their parish situation
- read and study Adult Catechesis in the Christian Community
- create and implement a plan for their parish