Pope Francis presided over the Third International Congress on Catechesis this weekend. In this meeting attended by about 1,200 teachers, the Pope remembered the catechists who prepared him for his First Communion.
POPE FRANCIS
There was a nun who led the group of catechists. Sometimes she taught, sometimes it was two nice ladies both named Alicia. I will always remember them. This nun laid the foundation of my Christian life, preparing me for my First Communion, in 1943-1944.
The Pope shared that he was able to say goodbye to Sister Dolores, the nun who directed his catechesis, before she passed away.
He also affirmed that catechesis should not merely transmit knowledge, but rather an experience.
POPE FRANCIS
Please, do not tire of being catechists, it is not about giving catechumenal lessons, no. Serve. Put your finger in your pocket. Don't teach like that. Be catechists. Catechism cannot be like a school lesson; it must be a living experience of faith.
The Pope emphasized the importance of being a catechist who makes a difference—especially for those preparing to receive their First Holy Communion.
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