1. You will grow in your own faith, learn the teachings of the Church, and deepen your relationship with Jesus
2. Your baptism calls you to share in Jesus’ ministry
3. Children, teens, and adults in today’s world, more than ever, need to hear the Good News of Jesus
4. Children, teens, and adults in today’s world, more than ever, need to encounter good role models of faith
5. You have much to share with those you’ll teach and have opportunities to share faith with other catechists
6. Today’s catechetical textbooks/resources offer outstanding support
7. You’ll be challenged, you’ll have fun, and you’ll make new friends
8. You’ll be helping people deepen their relationship with Jesus (you’ll be evangelizing!)
9. You’ll be handing on a 2000-year-old Tradition that changes lives
10. It’s our job: Jesus sent us to “go and teach all nations”

Having never been a teacher, how do I learn to teach?
Your DRE will assist you. In-services are provided several times a year that deal with effective teaching techniques.

Who will assist me with lesson plans?
Textbooks approved by the Archdiocese are designed for the non-professional teacher. Teaching manuals are user friendly and have a multitude of ideas on how to prepare and present lessons.

Without a background in theology, how am I able to pass on the faith?
The role of catechists is not based on a professional background in theology, rather, the ability to share faith, live faith, and journey with young people as their faith develops and matures.

What if I don’t know the answers to the questions young people ask?
It is perfectly okay to say “I don’t know, but I will find out.” Resources are available through your DRE and the Archdiocese. You will learn together with young people.

Please contact the parish’s Director of Religious Education, Wendy Osterberger, at (563) 556-7511 or dbq058re@dbqarch.org for more information on how you can give of your time and talent.