2008-2009

Sponsored by
Office of Evangelization and Catechesis
40 NORTH MAIN AVENUE
ALBANY, NEW YORK 12203
(518) 453-6630

BECOMING A MINISTER OF FAITH FORMATION is a 9-session program of orientation for new pastoral associates for faith formation and youth ministry.  It is especially designed to familiarize beginners and/or those new to the Diocese with the vision, policies and procedures particular to faith formation leadership in the Diocese of Albany.

This program is one component in the process of becoming certified as a Catechetical or Youth Ministry Leader. Please note:  Attendance for the full five hours of each session is required to receive credit for it.   

 Cost:  $20.00 per session or $180.00 paid in full 
                     Includes binder with  handouts for each session  

 Lunch is provided for Session I and IX only.  Please bring a bag
  lunch to the others.  Beverages will be provided .  

Resources including the General Directory for Catechesis, the National Directory for Catechesis, Catechism of the Catholic Church, and other foundational documents will be available for purchase.  

SESSION I:   The Ministry of Faith Formation Leadership in the Diocese of Albany

In this introductory session, participants will explore the evolution of this  important ministry, the foundational documents that shape the catechetical mission, and the vision and mission of the diocese of Albany.

Tuesday, September 09, 2008
9:30 am – 2:30 pm

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SESSION II and III:   Guidelines for Administration of Parish Programs

These two sessions will introduce participants to the ministry of administration and the administrative guidelines and procedures necessary to run effective catechetical/youth ministry programs in the parish.  Specifically we will walk through the administrative section of the Guidelines and Policies for Parish Catechetical Programs, The Safety and Crisis Management Guidelines and Safe Environment Guidelines, and discuss administrative expectations throughout a typical year.

Thursday, October 9, 2008 (Part I)
Thursday, November 6, 2008 (Part II)
9:30 AM – 2:30 PM  

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SESSION IV:    Formation and Certification of Catechists/Youth Ministers

This session will familiarize participants with the diocesan procedures for certifying catechists and youth ministers, guiding them through the formation process and maintaining records.  Different models and resources for catechist formation will be explored.

Tuesday, December 09, 2008
9:30 AM – 2:30 PM    

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SESSION V and VI:   Planning for Sacramental Catechesis

These sessions will introduce participants to the direction of sacramental catechesis today and skills for designing programs and processes which facilitate the role of families and the parish community in sacramental formation.  Participants will become familiar with diocesan policies and guidelines, models and resources for catechesis for Christian Initiation, Confirmation, Eucharist, and Reconciliation.

Thursday, January 06, 2009 (Part I)
Tuesday, February 03, 2009 (Part II)
9:30 am – 2:30 pm

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SESSION VII:   Planning for Lifelong Faith Formation

This session will explore the “cradle-to-grave” approach to faith formation and the primacy of adult faith formation.  Faith issues throughout the life cycle will be discussed, particularly catechesis with a family perspective, youth ministry and lifelong catechesis,   The unique issue of persons with developmental disabilities and special needs will be highlighted.

Thursday, March 05, 2009
9:30 am – 2:30 pm    
 

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SESSION VIII: Curriculum Tools for Parish Programs

This session will familiarize participants with a process for implementing two diocesan curricula: Curriculum Guidelines for Parish Catechetical Programs and A Christian Approach to Human Sexuality for Elementary and Secondary Schools and Parish Programs.  Issues surrounding programming and choice of resource materials will be addressed.  The services of the Diocesan Video and Resource Center will be explored.

Thursday, April 02, 2009
9:30 am – 2:30 pm  

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SESSION IX:  Nurturing Your Leadership Ministry

This session will focus on the care and nurturing of the leader and opportunities for ongoing personal and professional growth and development.  The leadership certification process in light of national competency standards will be explored.  A closing ritual will send participants forth to lead.

Tuesday, June 02, 2009
9:30 am – 2:30 pm

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***SNOW DATE for any cancelled sessions:
Tuesday, April 21, 2009

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