How do you help children encounter the living Jesus?

Sept. 13, 2007

Catechist quotes:

"By using the religious education manuals and stories from the Bible, we try to relate these to our present day life. We focus on how Jesus is alive in each of us and in each person we meet. We then know how to go out and act as Jesus would while recognizing him in each beautiful life experience: a friend's hug, a teacher's smile, a sunset, a rainbow, a wedding, a joyful song..."

- Cindy Hanenburg, Grade 2 catechist and John Hanenburg, Grade 7 catechist, St. Michael Church, Kingsley

"First I worship the Lord and pray for guidance and then I go to my job and I end up always encouraging the children to think about Jesus in all the actions that they do in their home, at school, at church and even in our little time together in class. We must help them to visualize what Jesus is really about in everyday activities. As a Christian, we must encourage the little ones to trust the Lord; even through trials (including all the problems that they face as kindergarteners.) We are saying, walk with Jesus, not for a moment, but forever."

- Maria Arndorfer, Kindergarten catechist, St. Cecelia Parish, Algona

"I send homework with my students. Often there are suggestions for family participation that enable them to practice the principles we studied that week. Example: Secretly do something nice for each member of your family." Denise Hiveley, Grade 2 catechist, St. Malachy Parish, Madrid

"You should teach them that the living Christ is in the Eucharist, in God's word and in our hearts. This should be taught with the unconditional love that Jesus shows us and also through prayer and example."

- Cindy Hesse, Grade 6 catechist, Immaculate Conception Parish, Moville

"I try very hard to show my Religious Ed students my love of the Living Christ by example. I encourage daily prayer, frequent reception of the sacraments of Penance and Eucharist, as well as weekly attendance at RE class."

- Shirley Elser, Grade 7 catechist, St. Louis Parish, Royal

"Jesus lies in all of us. Jesus' life was spent teaching and in service to others. I help my students grow to know Jesus in all of us through their teaching and service to others. They are finding that even at their age they have much to offer and can make a difference."

- Pat Beck, Grade 8 catechist, St. Boniface Parish, Sioux City