by Sam Francis
KUWAIT, DEC 3, 2015: At the end of November, Father Francisco Pereira, Catechetical Director of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia conducted a three-day Beginners' Catechists course in Kuwait, for all those who have recently joined the catechism ministry in their parishes.
The beginner's course equips the catechist with basic knowledge and skills to start teaching children in the class rooms. It comprises topics such as Jesus the catechetical educator, lesson planning, person of the catechist, creative ways of Bible catechesis, catholic Bible- facts, using the bible in catechesis, bible profiles, Gospel of Mark and Luke, encyclical Letter Laudato Si' of the Holy Father, Mary the Catechist, introduction of and how to use the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) and Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church (YOUCAT).
Father Pereira advised the participants that, "Catechists are the extended arm of the parish priest and share the great responsibility of transmitting the Catholic faith to children and adults. Continuously learn and update your knowledge of the faith."
The course was interactive and used activities and media presentations to make it interesting. Around 25 catechists from the four parishes in Kuwait attended the course. Participant Teresa Fernandes said, "The course was very educative, awakening, and motivating. I am now eagerly awaiting the next session."