The Agency for Evangelisation is committed to supporting the ongoing spiritual, pastoral, educational and catechetical needs of the people of Westminster, its vision and model of formation being Christ Himself:
'Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart' (Matthew 11:29)
‘Learn From Me’ is the title given to the overall provision of formation for parishioners who are involved or wishing to be involved in the ministry and mission of the parish in areas of parish ministry and catechesis. Formation ranges from short informal sessions in parishes to certificate courses provided by partnership organisations such as Westminster Education Service and the Centre for Catechetics and Formation, Maryvale Institute, Birmingham.
Here you will find information on what the Agency has to offer as well as links to websites and Catholic institutions offering courses at different levels and of varying lengths. As this is an evolving project of the Agency, please check back here for updates.
Diocesan Short Courses
Formation courses for catechists are now being offered by the catechetical team. These can be either parish specific or hosted by a parish and open to catechists across the diocese. For further enquiries contact Mary Crowley
Certificate Courses
A 2-year course, run in partnership with Westminster Education Service. The CCRS may be able to help you in the important role of parish catechesis. The course gives a basic theological knowledge and we are a supportive and encouraging learning community. A new group begins online on 9th February 2022. Application form available here. Catechists seeking information contact Anna Dupelycz
A two-year, part-time, distance-learning course in partnership with Maryvale Institute. The course is designed for parish catechists, employed or volunteer, and for those considering this and general parish ministry.
For more information on the course content and application forms contact Anna Dupelycz
Alternatively, see information and apply online at Maryvale Institute.
Independent Study
For those considering their own formation, these sites might be helpful:
Scripture:
Liturgy Office of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales
Year of the Word - The God Who Speaks
Various topics:
London Jesuit Centre
Liturgical Study:
Aimed at anyone with a love of liturgy, ‘Taking Liturgy Seriously’ is a new online modular course led by The Society of St Gregory (SSG) and the London Jesuit Centre. For more information and to register, go to Taking Liturgy Seriously
Bursaries available from SSG.
Spiritual Support for Catechists
Reflecting on Saints and Blessèds of Catechesis
This series of reflections has been inspired by an exhibition of banners of 24 saints and blessèds of catechesis from every continent that was mounted during the II International Catechetical Congress that took place in September 2018 in Rome. The leaflets posted below are a summary and presentation in printed format of virtual evenings held for and with catechists as part of their spiritual support. These sessions are currently suspended, with further leaflets only to be added as indicated.
January St Francis de Sales
February St John Bosco
March St Katharine Drexel
April St Pedro de San Jose Betancur
May St George Preca
June St Jose Anchieta
July St Clelia Barbieri
August Pope St Pius X
September St Andrew Kim Tae-gon
November St Andrew Dung-Lac
December St Peter Canisius