Two parishioners share their experience of the Light of Truth course as it prepares for a new intake in September.

An online course for catechists is gaining support in the Archdiocese of Birmingham as two participants share their experience.

The Light of Truth - Certificate in Catechesis is offered by the Dominican Sisters of St Joseph, UK.

It is a two-year, online course for catechists and for those who wish to transmit the Catholic faith to others. Recruitment is now underway for a new intake in September.

At a recent Birmingham East and North Deanery Day the focus was Catechists, and the Light of Truth course.

Two inputs were delivered by women currently taking the course.

Mgr Daniel McHugh, who organised the day, interviewed Carolyn Roskell, a catechist at St George and St Teresa, Dorridge. She said the course had been a ‘revelation’. 

She is part of a rich community who participate in lectures, group work and activities.

When it comes to assessment there are no written assignments. Skills needed as a catechist - talking about the faith in language adapted for the audience - are developed. Therefore, assessment is via an online questionnaire and oral interview.

Catechists' Day Video

Tracy Cattell is assistant catechist within the Newman Cluster of parishes and an academic.

She delivered a presentation on Structured Catechist: Is It Worth It?

“I hope these testimonies may help aspiring catechists decide whether to take the course,” said Mgr Daniel.

“The course has its origins in the Maryvale course I developed in the 1980s and is approved by Archbishop Bernard, and also the Catholic Bishops’ Conference.

“The next intake will be this September and I encourage people to consider taking part.”

The Light of Truth Certificate in Catechesis prepares you for these essential roles:

• Catechetical work in your parish, school, or diocese
• Understanding and communicating the Catholic Faith to adults, youth, and children in face of cultural challenges
• Teaching, witnessing to, and accompanying others in their journey of faith.

Find out more:

Certificate | Light of Truth