"The formation of catechists is nothing other than an assistance for them in identifying with the living and actual awareness that the Church has of the Gospel, in order to make them capable of transmitting it in her name." General Directory for Catechesis, 236
About the Program
The Archdiocese of Toronto and Saint Monica Institute, in partnership with the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) at the University of Dayton, provides formation programs for those involved in catechetical ministry in the Archdiocese of Toronto. This includes those who are involved in Sacramental Preparation (both for children/teens and adults) but also in a variety of other ministries that are also catechetical. This include, but are not limited to, liturgical ministers, ministers with maturing adults, ministers to the sick and homebound, family life ministers, stewardship committee members, and many more.
There are two program options outlined below. The 5 Course Program has a focus on Sacramental Preparation for children/teens or RCIA. The 4 Course Program has the option to allow the participant to take one course in an area more specific to their ministry. This includes Scripture, Liturgy, and Maturing Adults.
Each program has the same fundamental features, including:
Prerequisites both programs:
The 5 Course Program Consists of:
A. 5 Online Courses (5 weeks each)
B. 4 Group Gatherings:
Location: Virtual platform, OR Catholic Pastoral Centre 1155 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M4T 1W2
C. Retreat with Mass and Blessing of Catechists
Location: St. Augustine’s Seminary 2661 Kingston Rd., Scarborough, ON M1M 1M3
Dr. Josephine Lombardi
Virtuous Leadership
Cardinal Collins
Mass with Blessing of Catechists
Date: June 24, 2023
Time: 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
The 4 Course Program Consists of:
A. 4 Online Courses (3 or 5 weeks each depending on the course)
B. 4 Group Gatherings:
Location: Virtual platform, OR Catholic Pastoral Centre 1155 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M4T 1W2
C. Retreat with Mass and Blessing of Catechists
Location: St. Augustine’s Seminary 2661 Kingston Rd., Scarborough, ON M1M 1M3
Dr. Josephine Lombardi
Virtuous Leadership
Cardinal Collins
Mass with Blessing of Catechists
Date: June 24, 2023
Time: 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Contact Details
If you have questions about the Archdiocesan Online Catechist Formation Program, please contact Constance Price, M.Div., Ph.D., Associate Director, Catechesis, at 416-934-3400, ext. 513 or cprice@archtoronto.org.