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Catechesis is sharing the teachings of Jesus Christ in such a way that the believer comes to know God, believe in Him and his teachings, and enter into a deeper and transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. Catechesis involves the teaching of doctrine as well as the living practice of the faith. Catechizing and being catechized are lifelong responsibilities for every Catholic.

Catechesis seeks to: promote knowledge of the faith; promote knowledge into the Celebration of the Mystery; promote moral formation for Life in Jesus Christ; teach Christians how to pray with Christ; and introduce Christians to live in community, participating actively in the life and mission of the Church.

To present the Catholic faith in its fullness and in a way that is attractive, those who catechize need preparation and ongoing formation. Catechist formation must ensure that catechists receive assistance in developing and nurturing their knowledge of the faith and the Gospel message as well as the ability to transmit it. Catechetical Formation involves intellectual, spiritual, pastoral and human dimensions. It promotes: an understanding of the nature and goals of catechesis; knowledge and understanding of Catholic faith and practice; familiarity with resources; awareness of methodologies associated with the social, cultural, ethnic, demographic and
religious circumstances of people who are served; ongoing study of scripture and theology; growth in human, spiritual and pastoral qualities necessary for the work of a catechist; unity with pastors and the Church where all authentic religious education occurs

Certification Policies may be revised or modified by the Office for Catechetical Formation. The latest revisions and updates will always be available on this page. Elementary school administrators will be apprised of these changes via an electronic communication from the Office for Catholic Education. 

Basic Certification for Parish Catechists

Basic Certification is required of all catechists serving in parish religious education programs in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Basic certification consists of completing the Catechetical Formation Series produced by Loyola Press. Catechists can access this series through their parish DRE. Basic Certification must be completed within the first two years of service in catechetical ministry.

Basic Catechetical Certification Policy

Loyola Press Catechetical Certification Series at a Glance

Certification Request Form

Master Certification

Master certification is required for all Catholic Elementary School Principals, Directors | Coordinators of Religious Education, and Catholic Elementary School Teachers. Master certification consists of 12 credits and must be completed within the first 8 years of employment.

Master Catechetical Certification Policy

Electives Credits Conversion Chart

Master Certification Courses

Course Offerings through St. Charles Seminary

Office for Catechetical Formation Synchronous Courses

Facilitator Course Access