On May 23, St. Peter Claver Parish held a commissioning mass for 24 new catechists. Of the new catechists, 13 of them are women, the first large number of women catechists commissioned since the beginning of the catechists’ program in Toledo. These catechists represent 10 village churches.
They traveled many miles to get to the host village where the cursillos (trainings) were held. The training was for 2 ½ days, and it took 2 ½ years to cover the syllabus. These men and women are the persons responsible for conducting para-liturgies with their congregation when the priests are not present for mass. Their training centered around the importance of a life of prayer, the understanding of church, scripture, the sacraments, liturgies, leadership, how to manage conflict, etc..
The catechist’s training was facilitated by Sister Higinia and the village committee. We wish these women and men God’s continued blessing as they enter this new ministry of service.