Ministry of Catechesis and Evangelization

We assist the bishop in proclaiming the Gospel through the Religious Education activities of the diocese.  Our mission is to support life-long growth in faith for all adults, youth, and children, to bring people to Jesus Christ and help them grow as disciples.

What Ever Happened to CCD?

From the time of Jesus we have followed his example of teaching people about God. The process of teaching has been called by many names over the centuries. In the early days of the Church in the U.S. it was called CCD. Some people still call it CCD today. Over the last 40 years most parishes call their programs Religious Education.
*Catechesis is a word the Church uses to describe the religious education of children, youth and adults.

Bringing Children to Christ

One of the most important jobs of every parish or Catholic school is to help young people find Christ. Catholic school children study the faith and pray together as part of their regular school day. Those in parish programs come to know Jesus and study the Faith through regular classes, sacramental preparation, summer programs, family gatherings, Vacation Bible Schools, retreats, and many other offerings.

Each parish and Catholic school is unique and offers Religious education in ways that meet the needs of the local community. Some program structures are very traditional; others are innovative. The person who directs Religious Education in your parish can tell you more about the programs available to you.

For Adults, Too!

We are learning all the time. Even as adults we seek to learn more about our faith and deepen our relationship with God. Some adults want to know more, some adults want to grow in their prayer life. Many opportunities for the enrichment of faith are found in events and activities in parishes throughout the diocese, such as Bible Study, parish missions, lecture series, and online learning. The Office of Catechesis helps with adult faith enrichment by providing support for parish leaders and access to resources.

Who Brings the Good News?

The answer is – we all do! "Every baptized Catholic is personally called by the Holy Sprit to make his or her contribution to the coming of God's Kingdom" (Guide for Catechists, 2).Parents, teachers, religious men and women, ordained ministers, diocesan offices and bishops share in the privilege and responsibility of spreading Jesus' Gospel message of love and salvation. While we are each called and prepared to teach and share faith in unique ways, the task is one that succeeds when we all do our part - at home, at Mass, and in our faith communities. How do you proclaim the Good News to those you love and meet?