Coimbatore Diocese Conducts Catechist Training Sessions Across Vicariates

COIMBATORE, Tamil Nadu, July 15, 2025 — In a significant move to strengthen its faith formation efforts, the Diocese of Coimbatore conducted a series of one-day training programmes for catechists across its vicariates from June 21 to 29. Organised by the Diocesan Commission for Faith Formation, the initiative brought together 448 catechism teachers in three phases across Karur, Tirupur, and Coimbatore.

The training sessions aimed to sharpen teaching methodologies and deepen the spiritual foundation of those who serve in the Church’s catechetical ministry. Each session combined practical strategies with theological reflection, urging catechists to embody and transmit the faith as a lived experience.

Phase I, held on June 21 at St. Teresa Church, Karur, saw the participation of catechists from the Erode and Dharapuram vicariates. Fr. A. Maria Antony Lawrence, Parish Priest, and Fr. Santhosh, Assistant Parish Priest, welcomed the gathering. The sessions focused on creative teaching techniques and the integration of faith into daily life and were led by Fr. D. Antony Jesuraj, Director of the Pastoral Centre; Mr. Benedict M. Sundaram; Mrs. Vasanthi Benedict; and Fr. Royappadass, Assistant Parish Priest of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary.

Conducted on June 22 at St. Catherine Church, Tirupur, Phase II brought together catechists from the Tirupur and Karumathampatti vicariates. The participants were welcomed by Fr. A. Arul Jabamalai Raj, Parish Priest, and Fr. Nalla Jacon Dass, Assistant Parish Priest. The day included a session on maternal, child, and adolescent development, offering insights into the holistic formation of young learners by Dr. Shilpa Terance, an expert in the field.

Phase III was held on June 29 at Jeevajothi Hall, Bishop’s House, Coimbatore, for catechists from the Coimbatore, Pollachi, Mettupalayam, and Udumalpet vicariates. Bishop Dr. L. Thomas Aquinas and Fr. Melchior, Chancellor of the Diocese, inaugurated the session. The day featured a series of interactive and reflective sessions aimed at deepening the catechists’ understanding of their spiritual mission and practical role in faith formation. The programme concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Beyond pedagogy, the programme emphasised what organisers described as a renewed “Jesus Experience”—a personal encounter with Christ that catechists are now encouraged to bring into their classrooms. By prioritising personal holiness and lived faith, the diocese hopes to form catechists who inspire the next generation to live the Gospel deeply and authentically.

Coimbatore Diocese Conducts Catechist Training Sessions Across Vicariates

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