By Barb Mendralla
Each summer we hear the announcement at Mass requesting parishioners to volunteer as catechists for the kindergarten through 6th grade Faith Formation Program. But did you know there are many more parishioners who volunteer behind the scenes?
of the Faith Formation staff according to Vera Zielinski, K-6 Religious Education Director. These volunteers check attendance, telephone parents to confirm absents, assist with mailings to Faith Formation families and answer phones when needed.
The office ministers also help with special projects, including service projects, and substitute for catechists when they are running late or need to leave class early.
Vera added, office helpers are sometimes called to be hospitality ministers during events such as the reception following First Reconciliation.
Hall Monitors are stationed in both the school and Ministry Center and they are entrusted with the important responsibility of keeping the buildings secure. They ensure visitors call the Faith Formation Office from the vestibule telephone before being buzzed into the school. Hall Monitors make sure students get to and from the bathroom safely and will escort students to and from their classroom when they are late to a session or need to leave a session early. They also serve as short-term catechists as needed.
Child Care Ministers look after the children of catechists and other Faith Formation volunteers. They play games, make crafts and watch movies with the children in their care. Some parishioners would not be able to serve as catechists without having child care available onsite.
During special parent meetings such as First Reconciliation or First Eucharist, the child care ministers look after all children whose parents attend the meeting. Vera said this allows the parents to focus on the important information shared during these meetings.
The Faith Formation Program would not run as smoothly without these 50 parishioners serving in these roles. If you feel called to serve in this ministry, place contact the Faith Formation office at (630) 529-9191.
