by Julianne Stanz, Director of Outreach for Evangelization and Discipleship, Loyola Press
Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: Rejoice!
Philippians 4:4
St. Paul’s words to the Philippians ring out with joy, even though they were written from the confines of a prison cell. His witness reminds us that Christian joy is not dependent on circumstances but flows from the abiding presence of Christ and the certainty of His love. Joy is more than a feeling; it reflects God’s own nature. To be rooted in joy is to choose, again and again, to trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness. It is a deliberate response to the truth that God is with us and will never leave us.
In every season, and especially in our ministry, we are continually invited to rejoice.
One of the most grace-filled and joyful aspects of our vocation as catechists is preparing young people to receive the sacraments. These sacramental moments are not endpoints but guideposts on the lifelong journey of discipleship, strengthening us for our walk of faith. Most especially, they are transformative moments of grace in the lives of our young people and their families. Through your ministry, you help open hearts to the living presence of Jesus. What a profound gift!
Rejoice is a faithful, beautiful, and kerygmatic resource designed to support children and their families as they prepare for and celebrate the sacraments. As the Directory for Catechesis reminds us, all catechesis must radiate “joy, encouragement, liveliness, and a harmonious balance.” The catechist, like the joyful giver, shares the treasures of the faith in a way that uplifts and enriches others.
Here are some simple Ways to REJOICE in Your Ministry
- Embody the Joy of the Gospel
Let your life reflect the joy of the message you proclaim. Approach your ministry with enthusiasm, encouragement, and a spirit of hope. As disciples, our witness must be credible and authentic in sharing our faith with others. - Focus on God’s Loving Plan
Present our Catholic faith as a compelling and personal story of God’s love, a story that speaks to the human heart and invites a response of trust and joy. Speak of your own story of faith and how God is moving in your life and in the lives of all who are open to hearing Him. - Foster a Joyful Community
Create spaces where joy is contagious. Help young people discover the gladness of being known and loved by God and encourage them to share that joy with others through prayer, study, acts of service and discussion.
As catechists, we are called not only to teach but to witness-to be living signs of the joy that comes from knowing Jesus Christ. In every lesson, every sacramental preparation, and every encounter with a young person, we have the opportunity to echo the joy of the Gospel. Let us rejoice, then, not just in what we do, but also in who we serve.
As St. Ignatius of Loyola reminds us: “One is to ask for joy, with Christ in joy”.
In order words, ask Jesus with a joyful heart, to fill you and your students with even more joy!
May your ministry continue to be a source of joy, renewal, and grace, for you, for the families you serve, and for the entire Church.
