Ministry Leader
Supporting Ministry leaders on their journey to become Spirit-filled disciples, accompanying others in their encounter with Christ.
It is our office’s ongoing mission to: Support ministry leaders on their journey to become Spirit-filled disciples, accompanying others in their encounter with Christ.
Whether you are a full-time, part-time staff, or a volunteer with a Christian Formation leadership role at your parish, our office is here to assist you.
Programs and Gatherings for our Leaders:
- Several times a year The Office of Christian Formation sponsors Workshops, and every other year a Convocation, for our leaders. These opportunities include speakers, opportunities to meet with curriculum publishers and mix with other diocesan leaders. Please attend as many of these opportunities as possible!
- Leaders in several of our regions gather regularly to share ideas, resources and offer support. Find out if there is a group of leaders in your region that meets regularly and join them for these vey helpful gatherings.
- Each October, the Office of Christian Formation organizes Heralds of Faith, a daylong event for our catechists. Bishop Knestout presides over a special Mass for our catechists. This is the Bishop’s opportunity to meet them and thank them for their service to our diocese. The event also includes guest speakers, both English and Spanish speaking, refreshments, and the opportunity for catechists (and you) to meet new people and share ideas. Our parish leaders are encouraged to invite all of your catechists to attend with you when Heralds of Faith is held in your vicariate.
- Leaders interested in additional human, pastoral, intellectual, and spiritual formation can apply to be part of the Diocese of Richmond Lay Ecclesial Ministry Institute. Click here for more information.
Ongoing support to our leaders includes:
- OCF Newsletter – sent via email the second week of the month. This newsletter lists all upcoming Christian Formation events, includes registration information, and provides resources beneficial to ministry leaders. Click here if you are not receiving it.
- Grants for Regional Catechist Events – Events planned by multiple parishes for the benefit of their catechists formation may qualify for a grant from the Office of Christian Formation to cover some of the costs. Grants for Regional Programming (Word)
- Lending library – A large selection of resources are available for parishes to borrow. Click here to see what is available.
Our staff is here to support you. Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions or would like to schedule a meeting with one of our staff members.
