Echoing the Word : An Introductory Catechist Formation Process

Echoing the Word is an introduction and interactive process for parish-based catechist formation. The action of echoing is the focus of the process. The word catechesis comes from the Greek katechein, which means "echo." Throughout the ages, regardless of culture or language, the central mission of good catechists has been to echo the word of God faithfully and enthusiastically.The second focus of this process is on the word itself. There are many ways that God is made known through this word, through Jesus the Christ, God made human; but also through creation, scripture, the church, the sacraments, and the Holy Spirit.This process is an opportunity for everyone involved in catechetical ministry to explore the importance of faith formation for adults, youth, and children, supported by church teaching and documents. As our Catholic community members are challenged to rediscover the meaning of the gift of faith in their lives, we catechists are challenged to find the best ways to assist them in the process.