Dindigul Diocese Trains Catechism Teachers in Innovative Faith Formation

Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, September 17, 2026: The Diocese of Dindigul, in collaboration with the Jesuit Madurai Province, organised a special training programme for catechism teachers at St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School campus to strengthen their ministry of faith formation among children.

Organised by the Punitha Thoma Pastoral Centre, the programme brought together catechism teachers for sessions on faith formation, teaching methods and pastoral challenges.

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Fr. A. Soosai Arockiadoss, Coordinator of the Diocesan Pastoral Commissions and Director of the Pastoral Centre, welcomed the participants and highlighted the role of catechists in nurturing the faith and spiritual growth of children.

Fr. John Richard, SJ, Vice Novice Director of Beschi Illam, Dindigul, led the first session, “Catechism and the Faith Life of Our Children.” He encouraged catechists to accompany children in their faith journey and help them develop a personal and living relationship with Jesus Christ.

The second session, “The Importance of Catechism and Innovative Methods in Teaching,” was conducted by Fr. Arul Gnanapragasam, SJ, Director of St. Mary’s Career Academy, Dindigul. He stressed the need for creative, child-centred and engaging approaches to catechesis and introduced initiatives including the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, Soldiers of God and programmes on the lives of the saints.

Bishop Emeritus Thomas Paulsamy urged the catechists to regard their ministry not merely as a duty but as a vocation and mission entrusted to them by God. Fr. Sahayaraj, Contact Person, also addressed the gathering.

Group discussions, experience-sharing and an evaluation session facilitated by Fr. Soosai Arockiadass enabled the catechists to reflect on their pastoral experiences and challenges. They proposed organising similar formation programmes at the vicariate level and called for additional teaching materials and catechetical resources.

The programme concluded with a renewed emphasis on the catechists’ role as educators in faith, witnesses to the Gospel and guides who help children encounter Christ and grow in Christian commitment.

The organisers thanked Bishop Antonysamy Savarimuthu, D.D., D.C.L., Apostolic Administrator of Dindigul, Fr. A. Samson Arockiadass, Procurator, and Fr. A. Thomas John Peter, Chancellor, for their support and encouragement.

By Fr. A. Soosai Arockiadass

Director, Punitha Thoma Pastoral Centre