Evangelization and Faith Formation
Evangelization and faith formation have been organized into a single area because of the substantive interrelationship of these issues as discerned by the Diocesan Strategic Planning Steering Committee. “Catechesis is so central to the Church’s mission of evangelization that, if evangelization were to fail to integrate catechesis, initial faith aroused by the original proclamation of the Gospel would not mature, education in the faith through a deeper knowledge of the person and message of Jesus Christ would not transpire, and discipleship in Christ through genuine apostolic witness would not be fostered.” (National Directory for Catechesis).
Recommendations
1. Change the present Office for Faith Formation to the Office for Evangelization and Faith Formation and develop a clear, integrated and balanced theology and pastoral practice that will reflect this title.
2. Delegate the Director of the Office for Evangelization and Faith Formation to work with the regional councils (and their respective subcommittees) to implement possible programs based upon the latest version of GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES and ideas received during the listening sessions.
3. Form a Diocesan Task Force on Evangelization to identify specific resources and programs to support the work of the regional councils based upon GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES and insights from listening sessions. Staff the Office for Evangelization and Faith Formation with a Director and 3-5 Associate Direct
4. ors. The Associate Directors would be located strategically throughout the diocese to better serve local needs (which would include youth ministry).
5. Delegate the Director of Evangelization and Faith Formation to lead this team of professionals in the development and implementation of a Diocesan Plan for Evangelization and Faith Formation. This plan should take into account the investigation of evangelization programs best suited for the Diocese of Greensburg as well as the updating of the Taste and See Guidelines with follow-up training.
~ Published as a special supplement in The Catholic Accent, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2007.
To obtain a hard copy of the summary report, please contact The Catholic Accent.
