Mission

To support and encourage a living, explicit and fruitful profession of faith among the people of God in the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau.

The Office of Religious Education

• aids the bishop in his role as head of the community and teacher of doctrine in the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau
• assists in evaluation and planning for catechetical. ministry of the diocese
• promotes the formation of catechists
• collaborates with all offices of the Catholic Center in common projects that have a religious education dimension

PERSONNEL

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Religious Education in Parishes and Schools

• provide assistance to directors/coordinators
• assist in selection of texts/materials
• recommend resources from media library
• provide review of catechist records, issue certificates, develop ways to meet certification
• provide catechist inservice for parish and school catechists

Adult Formation

• provide Adult Learning Days
• assist parishes with methods, materials for adult learning
• provide suggested lists, e.g., Scripture study programs
• assist parents in their task of primary education of their children

Parish Councils

• provide in-service to parish leaders
• assist in formation of pastoral plans
• assist in design and implementation of parish convocations

Evangelization

• act as director for national network USCC
• provide resources for parishes for variety of target groups

Sexuality Education in Schools and Parishes

• assist catechists and provide teacher in-service materials
• provide sessions with parish groups/parents

Media Library

• responsible for new purchases and development of catalog entries (circulated by the Office of Communications)
• provide recommendations for specific topics, e.g., evangelization, bereavement, sacramental preparation

Resource Library

• maintain samples of texts and accompanying catechetical materials
• help parishes in selection of texts, materials
• maintain library of books

LIMEX (Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension)

• serve as diocesan liaison: choose facilitators, recruit students, maintain communication with Loyola University

RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)

• serve as codirector for area of catechesis
• assist in planning for diocesan implementation
• assist parishes in formation of teams, models of catechesis and selection of materials

Personnel Clearing House

• assist parishes in finding personnel for catechetical/pastoral positions
• assist applicants seeking catechetical/pastoral positions in the diocese