The reluctant catechist

At my first job, I was surprised to hear of two male senior engineers teach catechism on Sundays. I thought it noble of them and that I would never ever, ever do something like that; it was just not my cup of tea to face little children with church teachings.


A few years ago, after we had our first child, my friend L-K shared with me very young children’s needs: Orderliness and repetition. She told me about The Atrium (CGS’ classroom) and Catechisis of the Good Shepherd: A Montessori-styled Catholic catechism for children from 3-12 years. Again I said “No, thank you” even though it sounded the ideal education, ‘cos I thought it was just too much work (well, this part is true! And I cope now by the “Divide and conquer” rule).

After a few years of child rearing, I could not get back to doing the things that I love doing, because of its risks and unsuitability. For self-centred reasons, I joined the noble ranks of teaching catechism to the little ones whom I thought was beneath me and realised how much I learnt from them instead. They respond to their inner joy and showed me how fully present they were whenever they come for classes. I learnt much, especially how the world has progressed (Eg. how do we explain the word “virgin” to a child in this century?)

I now feel very privileged and grateful to be part of this CGS community; many (“mainstreamed”) catechists teach the syllabus on their own, source for materials on their own, get their own spiritual inputs but for the CGS community, we readily have a group of people who work together with the same intent: to provide the children an environment where they may experience and know God on their own.

I am particularly edified by Marilyn (pseudonym), whose children are not in the catechism classes she teaches. She does it, responding to her mission, that spiritual seeds are sown in the very young. Because of her vision and great love, many many children benefit from this one selfless woman’s work. It is mind-boggling perhaps but like what I read in The Little Prince, that at least she’s someone who does things for others, other than for herself and because of that, I like her.

I suppose I am still somewhat reluctant (who wants to face more kids after we’ve had one of our own!?) but very much inspired. I also find the community extremely gratifying. jeanne anne hsi