Faith Formation

Name: Catechist Training Seminar (Tyler)
Start: 2024-08-03
End: 2024-08-03
Location: Tyler - Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Teaching the faith in the Diocese of Tyler

Department of Faith Formation

The diocesan faith formation office supports the people and parishes of the diocese by providing faith formation resoures, events, and trainings for all levels of formation. The department hosts catechists formation events at the parish and diocesan level and works closely with priests, deacons and parish staff and volunteers to hold these events. The department also develops and recommends materials for ongoing formation and produces catechetical and evangelical content in written and video form.

What is Christian Initiation for Adults?

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the liturgical and catechetical process which prepares adults to receive the sacraments of Christian Initiation. The process incudes discernment, liturgical rites, catechetical sessions, and culminates in the reception of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil liturgy. RCIA is for adults who have not been baptized, however parishes will frequently use RCIA for adults who are lacking other Sacraments. If you are interesting in becoming Catholic, contact your local parish for more information on RCIA classes.

The Way of Christ

The Way of Christ is the standard resource for RCIA in the Diocese of Tyler, and it introduces readers to the fundamental teachings of the Catholic Church, the basics of what Catholics believe and how Catholics should live. Each of the lessons has a video to accompany it and provoke reflection and discussion on the lesson topic.

Order Way of Christ Books (New link coming soon!)

Way of Christ Videos (English)

Way of Christ Videos (Spanish)

Questions?

Pastors, catechists, and others who have questions about curriculum options for faith formation should contact Dr. Luke Arredondo, Director of Faith Formation, at larredondo@dioceseoftyler.org.

Catechist Formation & Certification

Be formed and form others.

“Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses.” – St. Pope Paul VI

Well-formed catechetical leaders are vital to our parishes! The Catholic Church needs faithful disciples of Christ who are willing to serve. Children and adults are often deprived of the message of the gospel. Our modern world has made it more challenging then ever to learn and live out Christ’s life-changing message. There are simple but effective ways catechists can learn to share Christ with others and form them in the faith.

Practical formation for Catechists in a user-friendly format

Be a disciple: As a Catechist, your primary responsibility is to conform yourself to the image of Christ. Be the witness you want others to be!

Learn the faith: We are called, as Catholics, and especially as catechists, to venerate Scripture as we venerate the Lord’s body. Catechist trainings and courses will help you to learn your faith more deeply, leading with Scripture.

Share the faith: Don’t keep the faith…share it! As a catechist, you are called to share with others the great treasure you have received from the Lord. We help with practical tips and strategies for effective evangelization.

Get Started as a Catechist in the Diocese of Tyler.

Step 1: Talk to your pastor or parish catechetial leader.

Step 2: Enroll in the Way of Christ. (Enroll here.)

Step 3: Attend on-going formation as it is offered.

Resourses

In-person training seminars: The Faith Formation Office offers in-person training seminars for catechists in both English and Spanish. Check the events calendar for the next training seminar.

Training Website for Catechists: intothechariot.com offers ongoing online resourses for curriculum, sacramental prep, classroom management and more.

Pastor or DRE? Download Certification Requirements for Catechists.

The Way of the Holy Family

Our Baptism formation program, The Way of the Holy Family, includes printed materials and booklets, downloadable forms (also available for purchase), and pre-baptism and post-baptism video components. The Way of the Holy Family is the standard program for Baptism formation the Diocese of Tyler. All of the materials are available in English and Spanish.

For more information visit www.dioceseoftyler.org/baptism-formation

Sacraments of Initiation in the Diocese of Tyler

In 2005, under the leadership of Bishop Alvaro Corrada, the Diocese of Tyler started celebrating the “restored order” of the Sacraments of Initiation. Restored order refers to the practice of celebrating the Sacraments of Initiation in the following order: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Note that this restored order is different from what many people are accustomed to today (Baptism, Eucharist, then Confirmation). It restores the Holy Eucharist to the climax of initiation.

Process for preparing and educating children for the sacraments.

General guidelines:

Children who have reached the age of reason (~7 years) and who have already been receiving systematic catechesis for at least a year, may request full initiation into the Church and begin their direct sacramental formation.

Children who have reached the age of reason (~7 years) and who have NOT received systematic catechesis for at least a year, may request full initiation into the church and will then begin their formation with systematic catechesis, followed by direct sacramental formation.

Pastor and parental discretion

Parents, as primary educators of their children, may believe their children need more or less time to be ready to receive their sacraments. These instances should be reviewed with each family as they come forward.

First reconciliation

Should take place 6 months prior to full initiation. Ideally, candidates should go to confession monthly leading up to the celebration of Confirmation and Eucharist.

Adult Seeking Sacraments

Adults who are in need of any sacraments should speak to their pastor for more information. The preparation process for adults will depend in part on their own circumstances and background.

Special needs

If your child has special needs, reach out to Mikki Sciba at MSciba@StPhilipInstitute.org or visit www.dioceseoftyler.org/specialneeds

Children and Youth Formation

The faith formation office is responsibility for creating and recommending materials used for faith formation across all the parishes in the diocese.

Approved Catechetical Programs for Elementary Formation

Unpack the historical teachings of the Catholic Church. Explore primary texts such as the documents from the Second Vatican Council, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and papal documents.
Start teaching your friends and family about the richness of your Catholic faith.

Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify or watch on YouTube.