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Catechist Rachel Weiss Reflects on Embracing the Gifts of Sacramental Preparation
Rachel Weiss had taught sacramental preparation and in Catholic schools for years, and when she and her family moved to the area, she missed that part of her life.
“I knew I wanted to be active at St. Joseph’s when we joined in 2014,” Rachel says. “I wanted to be a good steward of my time and talent. My husband, Jeff, and I have two children, Blake, 9, and Olivia, 5, and I have always put a high priority on religious education and teaching by example.”
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Following this call to stewardship, Rachel became involved in sacramental preparation at St. Joseph, and on April 25, 2021, her students received their First Holy Communion.
“Witnessing young children receive Jesus reiterates what the Holy Eucharist is,” Rachel says. “It is Jesus Christ, His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. It is a beautiful sacrament and a joyous day for the whole parish family.”
Beginning in September 2020, her class met every Sunday for an hour and 15 minutes until April.
Celebrating First Holy Communion with Fr. Paul Timmerman
“During a typical year, we learn in class together with an interactive curriculum and have family centers,” Rachel says. “Families are usually invited in, and we have parent meetings. Children also practice with our priest to help them prepare for the big day.”
Of course, this past year was a little different as Rachel and the other catechists were navigating the challenges of offering faith formation during the COVID-19 pandemic. In some ways, parents were asked to live their vocation as catechists to their children.
“I think most of the families took this responsibility seriously,” Rachel says. “The parents are the primary role in their child’s spiritual learning and development, and just bringing your child to Mass every weekend is extremely important.”
Faith community members are always welcome to discern becoming catechists. Rachel admits that you don’t have to “have all the answers” because you can always refer to the Catechism.
Rachel Weiss leading a review game for the students preparing for the sacrament of First Holy Communion
“We’re always looking for people of faith who are willing to support others as they grow in their faith,” continued on back cover Rachel says. “We have a great support system among the catechists too.”
For Rachel, teaching others about the faith is the best way to learn and grow on her own faith journey.
“When you instruct others, you grow,” Rachel says. “I am growing into the role of a catechist. It has allowed me to grow in my knowledge of the faith. I learned all these concepts as a child, but now as an adult, I have a deeper understanding and am eager to pass that on.”
Today, more than ever, we need to share the Good News, and teaching the next generation the faith might be the most important thing we ever do.
“Children are so eager, and they remind you to live in your soul,” Rachel says. “They remind you to live in the moment. They give you renewed energy and get you enthused about simple things. Sometimes, adults really need that. I know I do.”
