Children's Catechists and Youth Small Group Leaders

Who can be a catechist for children or small group leader for youth?

Holy Rosary welcomes adults and youth who are confirmed (or preparing for confirmation) to join our team of catechists and small group leaders! Our only requirements are that you are a practicing Catholic in good standing and someone who loves children and youth. 

I've never been a catechist or small group leader before. Is prior experience required?
No, prior experience is not required! New catechists/small group leaders bring new life and gifts to our team and are usually the only ones surprised that they are great at working with children or youth. Our seasoned catechists and staff are always on hand to provide support or mentor new members on the team. 

What is the time commitment?
The weekly time commitment averages around 2 hours. Our programs run for 1.5 hours a week and are designed for minimal preparation (15-30 minutes).

Is there a calendar available for Children and Youth Faith Formation?
Yes, please click here or visit our Faith Formation page to see our calendar and download a copy. 

What resources do catechists and small group leaders receive?
All catechists and small group leaders receive a catechist / small group leader packet at the beginning of the year with a teacher's manual, calendar, supplies, etc. Packet content various according to class or group. 

Will I have to manage a class alone or will I have support?
Holy Rosary Staff is present for all faith formation and youth group sessions. We have a dedicated staff person available to lead sessions for our 3 year old, PreK-Kindergarten, middle school, and high school youth groups. With numbers increasing this year for all of our programs, but especially for our 1st - 5th grade group, we need more parishioners to ensure we can provide two catechists per class. 

Can I invite a friend to teach a class with me? 
Yes! Ministry with children and youth is very rewarding and lifegiving. Ministry in partnership with a friend adds twice the fun! 

I am middle school or high school student who has been Confirmed or is preparing for Confirmation this year. Can I be a catechist or small group leader?
Absolutely! Middle school youth are able to support our 3 year old parishioners during the 3:30-4:30pm session in order to attend their youth group session at 4:30pm on Mondays. High school youth are invited to help with any age group from 3 years old through middle school as an assistant catechist or small group leader. 

Is training provided for new and seasoned catechists / small group leaders?
Yes! Holy Rosary and St. Thomas More will be offering a start of year training with a general session and two tracks (children / youth):

• Date: Monday, September 16, 2024
• Time: 4:30-6:00pm 
• Location: Holy Rosary Campus (Pastoral Center)

To register as a catechist / small group leader and sign up for training, please click HERE. If you are not able to make the training on September 16th, please fill out the form and select the "schedule a meeting" option. 

I'm thinking of becoming a catechist or small group leader but would like to know more about the program, calendar, and teaching tools and resources before making a decision. What should I do?
Please join us for the September 16th training or contact Daria Lobato to set up a time to meet.