Catechetical Leader Certification
"The single most critical factor in an effective catechetical is the leadership of a professionally trained parish catechetical leader." - National Directory for Catechesis, 54
Every parish catechetical leader (PCL) and youth ministry coordinator (YMC) must be properly prepared, educated and formed to lead and inspire the people of their parish in the faith of Jesus Christ. The PCL and YMC are more than coordinators of programs; the are visionaries and role models who desire to bring all people into a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Certification
In the Diocese of Portland, certification includes: Theological Formation, Pastoral Formation, Ongoing Formation and Spiritual Formation. Theological Formation may be completed through online courses offered through three colleges. Pastoral Formation courses are offered through the University of Dayton's VLCFF (Virtual Learning Community of Faith Formation). Ongoing Formation is provided by the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation through monthly meetings of the Lifelong Faith Formation Association (LFFA), a variety of ministry workshops, a yearly retreat and the annual Parish Life Conference. Spiritual Formation can be attained through reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist as well as other endeavors.
Theological Formation STEP University of Notre Dame Required Courses: • Introduction to the Catholic Faith or The Creed: VLCFF* University of Dayton Required Courses: • Introduction to Catechesis * Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation St. Joseph's College of Maine Certificate in Catholic Catechesis Each course: $300 www.sjcme.edu/online Six Required Courses: • TH 106 Foundations of Catholic Doctrine Each course is one college credit. 10% Discount for Diocese of Portland |
Pastoral Formation VLCFF University of Dayton PCL required courses: • Designing a Parish Catechetical Plan Plus two of the following: YMC required courses: • A Vision for Catholic Youth Ministry Plus two of the following: Spiritual Formation • Participate in Sunday Eucharist |
PCLs and YMCs Seeking Certification• Notify OLFF when you begin your first course For a printable copy of this brochure, |
Ongoing FormationUpon completion of certification, Book List (updated Spring 2020) |