Catechetical Sunday is celebrated every year in parishes throughout our country --- this year, Sept. 20. This year's theme, "Catechesis and the Proclamation of the Word," reminds us that the source of catechesis is found in the Word of God, revealed by Jesus Christ.

It is crucial then, that all who are entrusted with the responsibility of passing on the Christian story with its rich traditions and rituals are immersed in the Word of God which has existed from eternity and is resounded throughout all of history.

St. John Baptist de la Salle would tell his brothers, "You must devote yourself constantly to prayer to succeed in your ministry." He would also ask them, "Do you have the faith that is able to touch the hearts of students? This is the greatest miracle you can perform: a miracle that God demands of you, for this is the purpose of your work." Inherent in this command is the call to reflect on the Word of Life and integrate it into ministry efforts.

The prophet Ezekiel, in the later chapter of his prophetic writings, counsels us to eat the scroll and then go speak to the house of Israel. "O mortal one, feed your body and fill your stomach with the scroll I am giving to you. I ate it and was as sweet as honey in my mouth."

What does it mean for us to eat the scroll --- to digest the Word?

It means that if our catechetical efforts are to have wisdom and power, then they must flow from a spirituality that is Christ-centered, holistic and committed to the agenda of the Gospel. The call of the catechist is to echo the Good News in a world in need of direction --- a nation in need of a morality that respects all of life, and of a love that heals, forgives and revitalizes.

If the reign of God and the promises of Jesus are to truly inspire our ministry, we will always remember that our catechesis must connect with the life experiences of the learners. It is not about indoctrinating, but facilitating their personal encounter with Jesus so that they can live "the full liberating power of God's Word." As the Church reminds us, "The definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch, but also in communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ" (General Directory for Catechesis, n. 80).

Both the General and the National Directories for Catechesis are rooted in the conviction that catechetical efforts are intended to further Jesus' mission by empowering more and more people and communities to carry it out in the world.

We recall that, "The church exists in order to evangelize, that is the carrying forth of the Good News to every sector of the human race so that by its strength it may enter into the hearts of men/women and renew the human race and indeed all of creation" (GDC, n. 46). Now it is our turn to be at the service of God's reign, to pass on the fullness of our traditions, rituals and blessings just as the early Christians did.

The poet Antonio Machado, writes:
All passes and all remains,
But our lot is to pass,
Making roads,
Making roads in the sea.

Our catechetical ministry challenges us to make roads in the sea, to enable and empower others to live the gospel in daily life. This means:

---to believe that love is stronger than hate and to remember that refusing to condemn causes light to shine in the world.

---to help people to see that our smallest expression of selfishness, our petty acts of meanness, contribute to the evil that explodes in such horrific conflicts as we witness in many parts of our world.

---to speak the truth in love and with courage always bringing faith to life and life to faith.

Good catechesis is instrumental in helping adults, youth and children to not only savor the richness of the Word, but to embrace and echo it. We give special thanks to the catechists of the Archdiocese for their spirit of generosity and dedication in engaging the many generations and cultures in life-long faith formation.

Catechetical Sunday serves as a reminder to the entire parish family of their role in supporting the catechetical efforts of their community of faith. Let us together celebrate and honor those who tirelessly give of their time and talent to proclaim the Word of LIFE.

Religious Sister of Charity Edith Prendergast is director of the archdiocesan Office of Religious Education. The Office of Religious Education continues to offer many excellent programs and enrichment opportunities for all involved in catechetical ministry. Visit the ORE website for information regarding upcoming events: http://www.archdiocese.la/learning/ore/upcoming.html.