A Parish Catechetical Leader (PCL) is someone (under the direction of the pastor) who serves as the director or assistant coordinator of the catechetical (Parish Religious Education) program in a parish.
1. Only fully initiated, practicing Catholics who fully adhere to the Church’s teaching in faith and morals and who are models of Christian virtue and courageous witnesses to the Catholic faith should be designated as Parish Catechetical Leaders. (NDC, 54.5)
2. A Parish Catechetical Leader is one who has updated knowledge of theology, Scripture, Liturgy, catechesis and catechetical methodology, educational psychology and theory, and administration, as well as some practical catechetical experience with adults, youth, and children. (NDC, 54.5)
3. A Parish Catechetical Leader is one who is willing to continue his/her personal, spiritual, and professional development and participate in diocesan programs of in-service training and formation, catechetical institutes, conventions, retreats, and accredited programs. (NDC, 54.5)
The Parish Catechetical Leader:
• must complete the Diocese of Victoria Safe Environment training and background check prior to beginning the ministry.
• must complete the Diocese of Victoria Basic Formation and Training for Parish Catechetical Leadership within the first year of hire.
• must complete the Diocese of Victoria Pastoral Institute Short-Term Basic Catechist Certificate within two years.
• must be willing to work toward the Diocese of Victoria Pastoral Institute Advanced Catechist Certificate by attending the Pastoral Institute Extended Program courses.
• must have a comprehensive knowledge of the General Directory for Catechesis, National Directoryt of Catechesis, and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. (NDC, 54.5)
Tom East– Tom is the Pastoral Assistant for RCIA, Grief Ministry, and Marriage for Saint Charles Borromeo Parish. He is also a national consultant, trainer, and author about Confirmation ministries with adolescents. Previously, he was the Director of the Center for Ministry Development and author of numerous books including, Leadership for Catholic Youth Ministry. Tom holds a Master of Arts degree in Religious Studies from Mount St. Mary's College in Los Angeles. Previously, Tom was the Director of Youth Ministry and the Associate Director of Religious Education for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
Click HERE to view video. The video password protected.
The video and documents are intended for use by clergy, those in catechetical ministry who are assisting and preparing youth for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The handout is available under Documents. To view the video, contact Christella Alvarez at 361-827-7171 or calvarez@victoriadiocese.org.