Revolutionary Children’s Catechesis

Now is the time to completely snap out of the mentality of catechesis being something we ‘have to get done’, like a sacramental programme. This incredible new programme of children’s catechesis shows how it’s done. People are often amazed that the catechesis we have in our parish is every week, all year round. But this is the model of this wonderful new catechesis for children. If only more parishes in the UK would adopt this model and catechesis became a normal thing for Catholic children to attend each week, like a ballet class.

However, this is by no means the main reason this catechesis is so excellent.

Each year in Come, Follow Me (so far for ages 7-11) builds on the previous year: it is wonderfully systematic. The catechesis follows the divine pedagogy very closely and it is beautiful to watch. I first watched a presentation of it in France where it originates from. The second time I saw a presentation was at Franciscan University in Steubenville, where Anne Marie Le Bourhis did the catechesis with young adults (pretending they were children). It is wonderful to watch; in fact, it evangelised me – it touched my heart and turned me towards God just from watching Anne Marie give the catechesis. It really left me with a deep desire to pray (which is surely what catechesis should do!) This is a catechesis given in an atmosphere which is prayerful and liturgical. It takes seriously the action of the Holy Spirit in the heart of each child, inspiring them with an understanding of the truth they are being taught. It is deeply scriptural, and quite profound… Just have a read through some of the sessions. Most importantly, this catechesis has had remarkable impact on children.

Anyone who is involved in children’s catechesis – I would warmly encourage you to come and see for yourself. There is a ‘discovery day’ on 31 March and training weekend for the full weekend at Maryvale Institute. See the website for more details.

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