Summer is almost here

Hello Friends,

     We are up to 26 followers so we are gradually get a few more catechetical leaders to join this blog. I am told that they need better directions on how to do it so we will work on that.

     At the end of May I was fortunate to be able to attend the NCCL Conference in Atlanta where I  heard some great speakers and attended some very good workshops.  It was my first time at NCCL (National Conference of Catechetical Leaders). It is a national organization for Diocesan Directors but also for parish catechetical leaders. As far as I know there are only 2 members from our diocese who belong.  You might want to check out their website and consider belonging. Members receive a weekly e-mail that is full of useful information and resources some of which I have put on my blog in the past.

    This past week a few catechetical leaders from the Fall River Deanery met for breakfast.  We are resolved to meet at least 4 times during the coming year as a needed support for each other as well as an opportunity to share programs and ideas.  Cape Cod and Attleboro continue to meet monthly which is wonderful. Those two deaneries have the most full time catechetical leaders.  New Bedford is trying to be more consistent in their meetings and Taunton has not met at all this year but Joe and Joy Viveiros have offered to jump start that group in the fall. These conncections are important for us personally and for our ministry. Let's do our part to support each other.

June 14/15, 2012- Please put those dates on your calendar.  We are hosting a program called "Strong Catholic Families:Strong Catholic Youth".  The first night will be for parents. The second day will offer input for clergy and catechetical leaders regarding how to work with parents more successfully. Those who volunteer to be trainers for the Diocese will recieve specific training enabling them to assist parishes who wish to conduct these parents sessions.  The Diocese of Worcester and Providence have already initiated this program and are finding it very worthwhile. Stay tuned for more information.

How much experience have you had with children in the RCIA?  I suspect very little and yet it can be such an evangelizing moment not only for the child and his/her family but for the entire parish.  Remember that the pre-convocation on August 4-5 (noon to noon) at the Marriott  in  Springfield is offering an excellent track on this very topic.  Diana Dudoit Raiche is conducting the session and she has just finisihed her dissertation on the catechemenate with children. If you register before July 11 the fee is only $115 for presentation and meals. The hotel is extra but only $93 a night and if you share a room you can split the cost.  For $210 more you can register for both the pre-convocation and the convocation. I beleive that 2 or 3 catechetical leaders from Somerset are planning to attend the pre-convocation. You all received the brochure and registration form but if you misplaced it just go to our website, http://www.fallriverfaithformtiion.org/.

Have a great summer. Hope to see some of you in Springfield in August. In the meantime remember we are here in the office to assist you.