"Catechetical Sunday" Sept 16, 2022

Catechetical Sunday 2022
A Message from Fr. Cooper

Each year, on the third Sunday of September, the Catholic Church celebrates Catechetical Sunday. Today is a wonderful opportunity to pause and reflect on the role that each of us — clergy and laity, young and old alike — plays in bearing witness to the Gospel and handing on the faith to others. We all share in the Church’s mission given to the disciples by Jesus when He told them, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Mt. 28:19-20).

This Sunday, we recognize, affirm, and commission those in our parish family who have answered God’s call to serve as catechists. They serve in our faith formation and youth ministry programs, in our RCIA and adult education initiatives, and as teachers and administrators at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School. They freely and joyfully share their time, energy, and passion for our Catholic faith to help others open their hearts to Jesus. Their efforts give flesh to God’s Word and help bring healing to our souls. I thank each of them on behalf of our parish family for their “yes” to this call.

On this Catechetical Sunday, we also recognize and pray for the students, parents, and families in our parish. Parents are the first catechists and witnesses of faith to their children. We know that raising a family rooted in faith is challenging in today’s culture. Nevertheless, our parents bear witness in word and deed to the faith they profess. We thank our parents and grandparents for their perseverance, and we pray that God grants them the grace they need to continue to say “yes” to this call.

God has given each of us a great mission to pass on the faith. To all of you who share in the catechetical ministry of our Church, be assured of my continued prayers and deep gratitude.

Fr. Robert T. Cooper, Pastor
Divine Mercy Parish and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School