Celebrating the Jubilee of Catechists: A Day of Faith and Community at Lower North Shore Parish

On Sunday, 28th September, our parish community gathered in a spirit of gratitude and unity to celebrate the Jubilee of Catechists with a special Mass and Blessing at Lower North Shore Parish. This joyful occasion honoured the individuals who share and live out the Catholic faith through teaching, guidance, and service.

Honouring Our Catechists

The celebration recognized a diverse range of people whose service enhances the spiritual life of our parish. For instance, our Special Religious Education (SRE) Catechists dedicate their time each week, teaching Scripture to over 200 children in local public schools. RCIA Catechists and Sponsors play a crucial role, guiding about 30 adults each year as they prepare for baptism or full communion with the Church. Participation also included those involved in faith formation, youth ministry, sacramental preparation, and children’s liturgy.

Together, these dedicated individuals reflect the heart of our parish mission: to bring Christ to others through word, presence, and loving service.

A Moment of Blessing and Gratitude

During the Mass, catechists received a special blessing and commissioning, affirming their calling to serve with faith and joy. Each was given a single stem of a rose, symbolizing their unique beauty and role in the garden of God’s Church. Additionally, they received prayer cards designed to support and inspire them in their ongoing ministry.

The community responded with heartfelt applause, visibly moved by the dedication of these faithful servants. As Father Roger noted, "Catechists are not just teachers; they are living witnesses of God’s love. They open hearts, sow seeds of hope, and help form disciples ready for today’s world."

Living the Mission of the Church

This Jubilee celebration reminds us that evangelization is more than a task. It is a way of life. The catechists embody this mission, reaching out and sharing Christ’s message in everyday interactions. Their unwavering commitment to nurturing faith reflects the vibrant community at Lower North Shore Parish.

The Mass featured heartfelt prayers and reflections, encouraging attendees to consider their roles within the mission of the Church. Families, children, and parishioners of all ages gathered, highlighting our interconnectedness and the importance of spurring one another on in spiritual growth.

The Impact of Catechists on Our Community

The impact of our catechists reaches far beyond the classroom, touching the lives of children deepening their faith, adults finding their path to the Church, and families coming together in prayer.

As we celebrated the Jubilee, powerful stories emerged about the lasting influence of catechists. For example, one parent shared how their child, after attending SRE classes, eagerly began leading family prayers at home, creating a space for spiritual conversations at dinner. Such stories underscore the essential role faith formation plays in our lives.

This commitment from catechists invites all parishioners to reflect on their roles in our mission to spread faith—be it through teaching, volunteering, or simply being a supportive presence.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey of Faith

As the celebration concluded, the message resonated: the work of catechists is ongoing, and the journey of faith is lifelong. Our parish community is encouraged to continue supporting these dedicated individuals while engaging in their personal faith development.

The Jubilee of Catechists serves as a powerful reminder: we are all called to witness faith in our daily lives. This might be through small acts of kindness, sharing the Gospel with friends, or simply being there for one another. Each of us plays a role in building a thriving faith community.

A Day of Reflection and Commitment

The Jubilee of Catechists at Lower North Shore Parish was a beautiful celebration of faith, community, and service. It marked our appreciation for catechists' invaluable contributions and reminded us of our shared mission to bring Christ to others.

As we move forward, let us hold the spirit of this celebration in our hearts. Supporting each other in our faith journeys is vital as we continue to nurture the seeds of hope and love that our catechists have planted in our community.

Together, we can create a vibrant and welcoming parish that embodies Christ's love. Let us embrace the gift of faith in action, committing ourselves to live out our mission as a community of believers.

Fellowship Morning Tea followed the Mass