This summer I’m using a program put out by the Maryvale Institute and the Catholic Truth Society (out of England) called Echoes. It is different than what many people have heard of – Echoes of Faith. “Echoes” is a parish-based training resource and an initial formation program for those who are in parish ministry. It is designed for anyone handing on the faith, whether to adults or children, providing a rounded formation in the central aspects of the Catholic Faith and how to transmit it to others. It is designed to be taught in 11 hour and a half sessions, however for the last two years I have taught it in two five hour sessions. It is a great resource and very valuable. I have enjoyed very much being the presenter for these sessions. Our Archdiocese recognizes this a basic level catechist certification. I have the second session this Saturday (Come Holy Spirit).
June 25, 2010 at 7:06 AM
Good luck William! Where can we find out more about Echoes?
June 25, 2010 at 2:23 PM
Jared. Thanks. Here is the link to find out more about Echoes: http://www.maryvale.ac.uk/index.php?id=48
June 25, 2010 at 9:21 PM
Thanks for this post. It’s so is awesome to see that you’re using Echoes and liking it so much. I see one of the primary authors of this program, Dr. Petroc Wiley, every year at Franciscan University of Steubenville for the St. John Bosco Conference catechetical conference. He’s an amazing teacher and so knowledgeable.
I’ve wanted to start Echoes myself many times but have never been able to work it out. You’ve encouraged me to perhaps try again.
June 26, 2010 at 10:16 PM
It is a great program. I hope you have the chance to start it! Please let me know if I can help you in any way get started.
June 27, 2010 at 7:42 AM
I think two long intense days is better than 11 spread-out sessions.
June 27, 2010 at 2:33 PM
How do you do that? Over a weekend retreat or something like that?
June 28, 2010 at 8:25 AM
Well, I took two Saturdays and spend 5 hours each time cover the material. Is that was you are asking? Let me know if you need more clarification.
June 28, 2010 at 8:34 AM
Two Saturdays…yeah, that’s what I needed to know. Thanks!