Catechetical Sunday always falls on the 3rd Sunday of September.  However, here in our parish, we are celebrating it this weekend.  This special day is a reminder that all of us are called to be catechists in our own ways. This is our opportunity to recommit ourselves to the commandment of the Risen Lord before ascending to the Father, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Teaching them ALL that I have commanded you.” It is our mission to hand on the faith, and to be witnesses of the Gospel, to everyone.

Today, as we celebrate Catechetical Sunday, we remember our school teachers, they who are also helping us in forming our students’ spiritually. We remember all our catechists those who are helping Merry in the area of Faith Formation, Domestic Church, RCIA, Growing Our Friendship with Jesus and First Communicants. We also keep in mind those who are helping Row in our Confirmation Program and Youth and Young Adult Ministry. Thank you for answering God’s call to share your faith with all of us here at Holy Spirit Parish.

The theme this year is: “I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you.”  Perhaps as we think of our role as catechists, let us be reminded that Jesus did not just teach using words, in fact His actions were the most effective ways of revealing who God really is.  Let us imitate Jesus, the one and true catechist.  In this time of fear, let us be people of courage; in times of despair, let us be people of hope;  in times of sickness, let us bring God’s healing; in times of confusion, let us bring the light of truth;  where there is indifference let us show God’s compassion; in times of trouble; peace; where there is division, meaningful dialogue and reconciliation; where there is hatred, let us be love.