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Ministry Certification
The General Directory for Catechesis (219) recognizes the prominent place of the catechesis of the faithful, and the importance of supporting the catechist in both their own ongoing formation and the acquisition of skills needed to exercise that ministry effectively. The courses listed below serve the needs of parish catechists, Catholic school faculty, and adults as they work toward both basic and advanced levels of catechist certification. As such, they are consistent with the instructional requirements approved by the Texas Catholic Conference.
To complete any of the certification tracks, you must complete all the classes listed in addition to any prerequisite classes, including the Basic Teachings of the Catholic Faith, the Catholic Adult Faith Formation classes, and required retreats. Please see below for a complete list of course offerings.
Bishop Vásquez' Letter Regarding Certification Requirements
- Catholic Adult Formation Form
- Catechist Level 1, 2, and 3 Application Form
- DRE Certification Application Form
- Catholic School Teacher Certification Application Form
- Diocese of Austin Discipleship Certification Application
- Diócesis de Austin Aplicación Para Certificación de Discipulado
- Youth Ministry Certification Application Form
- Continued Formation Application Form
Completed certification forms should be completed and emailed to the Evangelization and Catechesis Office, attention Carolyn Martinez, carolyn-martinez@austindiocese.org.
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Not sure which certification track you need? Click here for the full list.
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Contact UsQuestions about catechetical classes?
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Maryrae Steinmaryrae-steinaustindiocese.orgAssociate Director of Catechesis and Formation -
carolyn-martinezaustindiocese.orgCoordinator of Catechesis
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Spiritual Formation and Catechesis for Adults
In addition to meeting the certification needs of catechists, the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis supports the ongoing spiritual formation of Catholic adults throughout the diocese by opening its course offerings to all who wish to deepen their understanding of the Church’s teachings and in so doing, become better equipped for Christian discipleship and evangelization in a variety of settings. This intentional change in scope is a service to parishes and individuals who currently might not have these resources available to them. While some of the courses listed below are primarily for catechists, many of them are general enough to offer content useful to any Catholic adult.
Serving Remote Locations, Multiple Languages
The Office of Evangelization and Catechesis will continue to offer a limited number of courses in remote locations throughout the Diocese, via the online technology of Microsoft Teams, which offers the benefits of live instruction and communal learning in multiple locations (pending). These sites accommodate an optimal number of 10-15 students.
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Certification Classes for DRE, Catholic School Teachers, Catholic Adult Formation
- Basic Teachings of the Catholic Faith
- Faith Formation Classes (16 hours)
- Continuous Formation for Certification
- Leadership Series
- Summer Certification Classes
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The Basic Teachings of the Catholic Faith Program offers a general introduction to the theological principles found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This program serves as the first step in basic adult formation for all ministry groups that seek evangelization and catechetical certification. The class is presented in five sessions (6 clock hours of instruction each). Topics include Introduction to Scripture, Creed, Liturgy and Sacraments, Christian Morality and Prayer/Spirituality. (30 hour course)
DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level I Catechist/DRE, Part 1 Catholic Schools, Criminal Justice, Discipleship, Adult Formation, Criminal Justice, Youth MinistryTo register, click on one of the class dates below
Please note that the registration is for all 5 classes.
If you are unable to attend a class, you may register for a make-up class during another sessionBasic Teaching: Scripture
September 25, 2021
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. via TeamsBasic Teaching: Creed
October 9, 2021
9 a.m.-3 p.m. via Teams
Basic Teaching: Sacraments
October 23, 2021
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. via Teams
Basic Teaching: Morality
November 6, 2021
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. via Teams
Basic Teaching: Prayer & Spirituality
November 20, 2021
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. via Teams
Click here to return to the Evangelization and Catechesis home page
Click here for certification tracks
Click here for class offerings in Spanish
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Click on the class date for registration. Registration for summer classes will open May 1, 2022. Refunds will not be issued for unattended classes, however, substitutions are welcome. Check back often for new class offerings. Dates are subject to change.
Catholic Social Teaching
April 5, 12, 19, 26, 2022
Tuesdays, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
This overview of the history and theological development of Catholic Social Teaching uses Biblical texts and modern Church documents to focus on key themes and how the teachings can be applied to contemporary social situations. (16 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Part 2 Catholic Schools, Criminal Justice
Christian Morality
March 1, 8, 22, 29, 2022
Tuesdays, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
To live a Christian moral life is to respond to the gift of God’s love. This course will explore the nature of that response by examining key themes and dimensions of Christian morality, both from a personal and a social/communal perspective. (16 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level III Catechist/DRE, Part 2 Catholic Schools, Criminal Justice
Church History
January 4, 11, 18, 25, 2022
Tuesdays, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
This course organizes the church’s 2000-year story in identifiable periods, describes the Christian faith as “handed on” through the centuries, and discovers how the people of God have endeavored to live out the Gospel.
(16 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level III Catechist/DRE, Part 2 Catholic Schools, Criminal JusticeEcclesiology
February 1, 8, 15, 22, 2022
Tuesdays, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
This course examines key documents presenting the major themes about how the Church is understood, both theologically and in human experience. (16 hours)
DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level III Catechist/DRE, Part 2 Catholic Schools, Criminal Justice
Christology | New Testament
June 13-16, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
This course focuses on the people of the early church, from their call to discipleship to the formation of an active church. The faith journey of Jesus’ disciples will serve as a model for an examination of our own faith journey. (16 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level II Catechist/DRE
Sacred Scripture | Old Testament
June 6-9, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
This course focuses on the people of Israel, from their creation as the chosen people of God to the time of the Roman occupation of their land. The faith journey of the Israelites will serve as a model for an examination of our own faith journey. (16 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level II Catechist/DRE
Sacramental Theology
November 2, 9, 16, 30, 2021
Tuesdays, 6:30 -9:30 p.m.
This course will explore the history, theology and pastoral practice of the Sacramental System of the Catholic Church and the liturgical celebrations in which it is expressed. (16 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level II Catechist/DRE
Click here to return to the Evangelization and Catechesis home page
Click here for certification tracks
Click here for class offerings in Spanish
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Click on the class date for registration. Registration for summer classes will open on May 1, 2022. Refunds will not be issued for unattended classes, however, substitutions are welcome. Check back often for new class offerings. Dates are subject to change.
Building Intercultural Competence in Ministry
July 18-19, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
*This course frames discussions of culture in terms of the church’s identity and mission to evangelize. Explore an understanding of “culture” and how it works, learn intercultural communication skills and recognize the obstacles that impede effective intercultural relations. (10 hours) * Students must attend both days to receive attendance credit.
DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: All tracks
Christian Leadership
This course looks at the differences between charisms, talents, and skills and then introduces learners to practical skills for ministry leadership such as planning, community building, conflict management, managing effective meetings, and group facilitation. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Criminal Justice
Catechesis & the Law
This workshop will present an overview of civil law as it affects ministry in the church. It will discuss tort law; law of negligence; the rights and responsibilities of bishops, parishes, pastors, pastoral councils, and boards; the rights and responsibilities of DREs, Youth Ministers as well as other parish sponsored ministries; supervision of parish programs and Catholic Schools; and the rights and responsibilities of students and parents. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Youth Ministry
Catechizing for a Just World
July 20, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Our Catholic call to justice is rooted in the heritage of Scripture, the life of Jesus himself, and the rich tradition of the Church’s social teachings. This course will focus on key social justice themes and how to incorporate the church’s social teachings into one’s life and work. Recommended for catechists and for all adults involved or seeking to grow in the works of charity, justice, and peacemaking. (6 hours)
DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level III Catechists/DRE, Youth Ministry
Catechesis of Human Love Classes | Introduction to Theology of the Body
(pre-requisite for Methodology For Theology of the Body)
In a culture that often reduces the significance of human love and sexuality and provides “depersonalized, recreational and often pessimistic information” (Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, 1), parents struggle to give their children an adequate education regarding the true meaning of sexuality. This certification offers the wisdom of the church to catechists for education in human love and sexuality, in particular, incorporating St. John Paul II’s catechesis on human love which helps us to understand the human person in a way so radically different from the current culture. The Introduction to Theology of the Body and Methodology for Theology of the Body are required for DRE Certification. For additional certification classes on the Catechesis of Human Love click here.
(4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Catechesis on Human Love, Catholic School Teacher
Methodology for Theology of the Body
July 11, 2022 | 1:30 - 4 p.m.
DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Catechesis on Human Love, Catholic School Teacher
Conflict Management
July 28, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
This course addresses the causes of conflict in ministry settings, shows how it can lead to constructive collaboration and presents strategies for effective management of negative effects and “difficult people” without confrontation. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Youth Ministry, Criminal Justice
Ecumenism
This course studies the effects of ecumenism in ministry within the Catholic Church, our relationship with other Christian and non-Christian religions, the implications of ecumenical dialogue, the concerns of identity, and obstacles to ecumenical dialogue. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Criminal Justice
Learning Theories & Learning Styles
July 6, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
This course shows how catechists and teachers can bring variety to their teaching methods and help children learn to their strengths. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level II Catechists/DRE
Media & Technology
July 21, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Today’s youth live in a media-saturated, technological era – a world often far removed from the experiences of most teachers and catechists. Explore basic principles of media literacy and how to make effective use of new technologies in teaching the truths of the Catholic faith. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level III Catechists/DRE, Youth Ministry
National Directory for Catechesis
July 25, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
This course will focus on the National Directory for Catechesis (USCCB, 2005) and will cover the call to evangelize and catechize and the methods of catechesis for all stages of growth and development. It covers the message and content of catechesis, the formation of the catechist as well as resources available for exercising the ministry of catechesis. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level II Catechists/DRE, Part 1 Catholic Schools, Discipleship
New Evangelization & Catechesis
July 26, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Drawing from the USCCB document Disciples Called to Witness, we will review the historical context of the New Evangelization and explain the relationship between evangelization and catechesis. Learn practical strategies and resources for building a “culture of witness and outreach” in our classrooms and parish communities. (4 hours)
DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: Level II Catechists/DRE, Part 1 Catholic Schools, Discipleship, Youth Ministry
Principles of Adult Formation
July 7, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
This course will give parish adult formators the skills and strategies needed to facilitate instruction in small group settings. Using the USCCB document "Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us" as a guide, the course explores the developmental stages of adult learning as well as effective communication of personal faith stories. (4 hours)
DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Criminal Justice
Strategic Planning
July 27, 2022 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Strategic planning is a process of envisioning a desired future and identifying goals and steps to get there. This course covers the systematic development and fruitful engagement of a strategic plan within a Catholic environment. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Youth MinistryClick here to return to the Evangelization and Catechesis home page
Click here for certification tracks
Click here for class offerings in Spanish
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Due to low registration, the below classes will now be independent study classes. There will be short virtual meetings and additional assignments. Please call Carolyn Martinez at 512-949-2461 if you have any questions.
Click on the class date for registration. Refunds will not be issued for unattended classes, however, substitutions are welcome. Check back often for new class offerings. Dates are subject to change.
All God’s People: Effective Catechesis in a Diverse Church
NOVEMBER 11, 2021
THURSDAY, 6:30-9:30 P.M.
This class considers the wide variety of people to be catechized and offers strategies for catechetical leaders to engage all of them in life-giving formation. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Discipleship
Called By Name: Preparing Yourself for the Vocation of Catechetical Leader
October 7, 2021
Thursday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
This class focuses on what catechetical leaders need to be, as opposed to what they need to know or do if they are to lead effectively. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Discipleship
Catechetical Leadership: What It Should Look Like, How It Should Work, and Whom It Should Serve
October 21, 2021
Thursday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
This course closely examines the specific leadership skills and competencies that are necessary for a catechetical leader to be effective in a parish setting. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Discipleship
Cultivating Your Catechists: How to Recruit, Encourage and Retain Successful Catechists
October 28, 2021
Thursday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
This class teaches catechetical leaders how to recruit, train, support, inspire, supervise, evaluate, and retain catechists in their parishes. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Discipleship, Criminal Justice
Developing Disciples of Christ: Understanding the Critical Relationship between Catechesis and Evangelization
October 14, 2021
Thursday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
This course centers on the inseparability of evangelization and catechesis, and gives catechetical leaders a proper understanding of their interconnectedness. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Discipleship
Excellence in Ministry: Best Practices for Successful Catechetical Leadership
November 4, 2021
Thursday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
This course shares time-tested skills and strategies for successful catechetical leadership, while also identifying and proposing new approaches to leadership. (4 hours) DEVELOPMENT TRACKS: DRE, Discipleship
Click here to return to the Evangelization and Catechesis home page
Click here for certification tracks
Click here for class offerings in Spanish
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Class schedule subject to change.
Registration for Summer Classes will open May 1, 2022
All summer classes will be held in person at the Pastoral Center. Additional information to come.
Date Class Times June 6-9, 2022 (M-Th) Sacred Scripture 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. June 13-16, 2022 (M-Th) Christology 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. June 20-23, 2022 (M-Th) Sacramental Theology 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. June 27, 2022 (M) Basic Teachings--Scripture 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 28, 2022 (Tues) Basic Teachings--Creed 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 29, 2022 (Wed) Basic Teachings--Sacraments 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 30, 2022 (Th) Basic Teachings--Morality 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. July 1, 2022 (Fri) Basic Teachings--Prayer & Liturgy 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. July 6, 2022 (Wed) Learning Theories 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. July 7, 2022 (Th) Principles of Adult Formation 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. July 11, 2022 (M) Methodology to Introduction to TOB 1:30 pm-4 p.m. July 18, 2022 (M) Building Intercultural Competence in Ministry, Part 1 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. July 19, 2022 (Tues) Building Intercultural Competence in Ministry, Part 2 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. July 20, 2022 (Wed) Catechizing for a Just Word 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. July 21, 2022 (Th) Media & Technology 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. July 25, 2022 (M) National Directory for Catechesis 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. July 26, 2022 (Tues) New Evangelization & Catechesis 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. July 27, 2022 (Wed) Strategic Planning 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. July 28, 2022 (Th) Conflict Management 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Click here to return to the Evangelization and Catechesis home page
Click here for certification tracks
Click here for class offerings in Spanish
