GRANT EXAMPLES

CATECHIST TRAINING

Deanery Workshops
Several deaneries in the Toledo Diocese

Catechetical Leaders and catechists are invited to attend one-day training programs which provide workshops to assist them in completing the Growing-In-Faith certification process for the Diocese of Toledo. Funds are used to publicize the event, give stipends for speakers and pay for facilities used for the event.

"Echoes of Faith" Training Workshops
Several deaneries in the Toledo Diocese

Parishes and deaneries purchased the "Echoes of Faith" video-assisted training program to use with their catechists. This program enhances the formation and development of catechists enabling them to become more effective in their role. Funds are used to purchase the tapes and booklets and provide facilities for each meeting.

Training for the "Catechesis of the Good Shepherd" program
Lima Deanery

Funding provided basic-level training in the philosophy and theology of the "Catechesis of the Good Shepherd," a national program that explores the developmental characteristics and religious nature and needs of children. Catechetical leaders and catechists learned the philosophy of the program as well as the practical "how-to's." As a result of attending this training, several Catechetical Leaders are beginning "Catechesis of the Good Shepherd" programs in their parishes.

Little Rock Scripture Study
Fremont Parishes

Catechetical Leaders and catechists were given an opportunity to study Scripture in a group setting at St. Joseph parish. Participants reported that their study of Scripture enhanced their own knowledge of Scripture and enabled them to become better catechists. They also increased their understanding of group process and how to use it with their classes. Funds were used to purchase series materials.

PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH

Touch the Earth
St. Mary, Tiffin and St. Mary, Toledo

This project is an experiential summer day camp program involving children from the two parishes. The goal of the program is to help children come to understand that all life is interdependent and that God dwells in all of creation. The program helped elementary children come closer to God and grow in an appreciation and respect for the earth. Funds were used to provide craft materials, program equipment and facilities for holding the event.

"The Master's Hands" Puppet Ministry
St. Joseph, Maumee

The purpose of this program is to enhance the parish religious education program, especially with pre-school children and nursing home residents, through the use of youth puppet ministry. This project assists adults to learn how to use puppets to teach biblical stories and truths to elementary students. Twelve adults became puppeteers and presented Bible story programs to children in the early childhood classes, children's liturgies and other religious education programs. Funds were used to purchase equipment and to train personnel.

Junior High Leadership and Esteem Retreats
St. Peter, Huron

Small group day-long retreats for junior high students were held dealing with image, popularity, influences against true self-worth and how to become leaders for good. Funds were used to provide appropriate materials and equipment and for speakers.

Rio Grande Border Witness Program
St. Aloysius, Bowling Green

This project allowed 8 youth and 2 adult chaperones to visit the Rio Grande Border Witness program to learn more about the social justice issue present in the factories of Mexico. The youth shared their experiences with other student groups in the Toledo Diocese. Funds were used for student tuition, travel and lodging.