Welcome
Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Office for Catechetical Formation (OCF) assists the Archbishop of Philadelphia in his primary responsibility of the teaching of the Catholic Faith. The OCF fosters and supports the catechetical initiatives of the Archdiocesan Catholic Elementary Schools and Parish Religious Education Programs. To ensure that the beauty and the truth of the Catholic faith is presented with fidelity, the OCF promotes the ongoing faith formation of Directors/Coordinators of Religious Education, Catholic Elementary Administrators, Teachers and Catechists.
Catechetical Sunday- September 20, 2026
Please know of my thoughts and prayers for you and your catechists who have offered your “fiats” in participating in this most sacred and time-honored ministry.
This year’s theme is “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to bring good news to the poor” Lk 4:18; cf. Is 61:1
The 2026 theme reveals Jesus’ mission and identity. Anointed by the Holy Spirit, he is sent to bring hope, healing, and freedom—especially to the poor, the brokenhearted, and the forgotten.
This passage shows that the Messiah comes not with power or status, but with compassion, restoring dignity and proclaiming God’s mercy. It also becomes a model for the Church, us, which is called to continue Christ’s work by sharing the Good News and caring for those most in need.
Catechetical Sunday-USCCB Resources
Commissioning Service – CLICK HERE
Prayer Requests
The Office for Catechetical Formation (OCF) invites you to submit a confidential prayer intention HERE