Catechist - David Belcher

 

The word “catechesis” is derived from the Greek New Testament word, katecheō, which means, roughly, “to teach by word of mouth.” The process of the catechumenate – ancient in origin, its more formal structure stretching back to at least the fourth century – is made up of an entire series of such oral instructions, meant to prepare those instructed to receive the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation (or Chrismation), and Eucharist. The catechumenate is thus a time of study, deepening of faith, and intense preparation for incorporation into Christ’s body, the Church.

At St. Joseph’s, the catechumenate is such an intensive time of training and instruction for those not only preparing to be baptized (at the Great Easter Vigil), but also for those who either wish to be confirmed or received into the Episcopal Church, or who simply wish to reaffirm the vows each of us takes at Baptism. However, all are welcome to participate in this ancient tradition, whether to learn more about and thus deepen one’s understanding of the faith or the Episcopal Church more specifically, or to join with others as one body in preparation for the reaffirmation of the vows each of us takes at Baptism. And we are all called to participate by our common prayers, remembering those who embark on this journey, lifting them up to God, and with the Holy Spirit welcoming them into the communion of saints.

 

Commitment and Preparation 

Since Baptism is nothing short of a “new birth” (Jn. 3:3-8) and thus incorporates us into an entirely new way of life, traditionally there are certain expectations that accompany this journey each of us takes to the waters of Holy Baptism. At Saint Joseph’s, the following commitments are vital to the catechetical journey:

 

Worship

Catechumens commit to attending communal worship in the form of the Sunday Eucharist on a weekly basis unless prohibited by illness or some other unavoidable obstacle.  Baptized Christians are encouraged to receive the bread and/or cup on these occasions.  

 

Study

Catechumens commit to preparing for and attending group sessions on various topics, including discussing the ongoing process and progress of catechesis.  These meetings will take place over the course of roughly thirteen Saturdays beginning just after Epiphany and ending just after Easter Sunday, and will be led by the Catechist or other members of the congregation. Consult the schedule below to determine meeting dates.  Catechumens who are unable to attend a session due to illness or another unavoidable obstacle are encouraged to notify the Catechist to receive the preparatory materials for that session.

 

Works of Supplication

Catechumens commit to praying the Morning and Evening Offices of the Book of Common Prayer daily.  Each week, at least one of the Daily Offices should be prayed in community, preferably at St. Joseph’s, but possibly at another church, with one’s family, partner or friends, etc. In addition, catechumens are encouraged to take up the discipline of fasting, especially during the Lenten season (including Holy Week).

 

Works of Mercy

Catechumens commit to serving in a ministry capacity once per week.  This may include attendance and service at morning breakfast fellowship, preparing, delivering, or sharing meals at the House of Hospitality, service at Urban Ministries, or another commitment to be worked out in consultation with Catechist or clergy.

 

Confession of Sin

Catechumens are encouraged to commit to confessing to a priest once a week during Lent using one of the forms in the Book of Common Prayer.

 

 

Our next Catechesis is planned for Lent

Contact Information: 

Dave Belcher, Catechist

j.david.belcher@gmail.com