Recommended for catechists with 0-3 years' experience
Introductory Certification
Loyal Press Catechetical Certification Series
Type Available: Basic
Best for: any new catechist who needs to be quickly equipped in the basics of doctrine, classroom management, prayer, and the call to catechetical ministry
Content Description: 10 virtual 45–60-minute lessons on the basics of catechetical ministry
Recommended for catechists with 3+ years' experience
Deep-Dive Certification Options
Camino/STEP (Satellite Theological Education Program) with Catechesis Concentration through McGrath Institute for Church Life
Type Available: Basic (Camino in Spanish; STEP in English)
Best for: parishes w/an emphasis on the Catholic intellectual tradition
Content Description: five courses in theology and pedagogy plus final assignment
Advanced: Level II, Level III, Infant/Toddler, 90+ hours of in-person instruction per Level
Best for: parishes with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and/or a more hands-on pedagogical approach
Content Description: theoretical and hands-on in-person instruction in Montessori methodology, Scripture and liturgy-based
Equip
Types Available: Basic and Advanced
Basic: Tier I
Advanced: Tiers II and III
Best for: parishes with an emphasis on the doctrinal and small group encounter
Content Description: includes pillar courses from Catholic Faith Technologies, Missionary Discipleship dimension from Alpha, ChristLife, or The Search, and courses on doctrine, theology, and pedagogy from the Franciscan Catechetical Institute
IMF (Institute for Ministry Formation) Catechetics Certificate
Type Available: Advanced
Advanced: Track 1 or Track 2
Best for: parishes with contemplative/accompanying charism and/or Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Content Description:
Track 1: core courses in theology, spirituality and pedagogy; CGS Level I formation; spiritual direction; retreat
Track 2: core courses in theology, spirituality and pedagogy; additional courses in theology and doctrine; spiritual direction; retreat
NB: Theology (or related degrees, with the approval of the Formation Secretariat) count as certification, but certification in one of these modalities is still recommended for ongoing formation.