Ongoing formation in Catholic faith is essential to the ministry of the parish catechist, whether he or she works with children, youth, young adults or adults.  The Diocese of Joliet's Catechist Certification Program assiststs catechists to balance their formation experiences. In Service to the Master - for parish DRE's Principals and Youth Ministers - describes the process for Catechist Certification. Foundational Certification is granted after (36) hours of study; Advanced Certification is granted after an additional (24) hours of study; and Ongoing Recognition is awarded for every (18) hours of study within (3) years.

Starting Out: Initial Formation Day

Certification begins with the diocesan Catchist Initial Formation Day experience or, for those from the Hispanic culture, Soy Catequista (see above)

Opportunities for Ongoing Formation for Catechists

Into the Fields Certification Conversion

Check Out These Great Sites for Catechists!

Catechist's Journey Blog Site	Catechist Development (Sadlier)	Catchist Formation (RCL- Benziger)	Catechist Enrichment (Harcourt)	Enriquecimento para el Catequista (Sadlier)

Letter from REO Director Thomas Quinlan to Catechists 

(WORD)*   (PDF)*