Catechist Formation Program Holds Closing Retreat in Scarborough

On June 22, 2024, participants of the 2023-24 Archdiocese of Toronto Catechist Formation Program (ACFP) gathered at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Scarborough for their closing retreat.

The Most Reverend Francis Leo, Metropolitan Archbishop of Toronto celebrated Mass and blessed the 37 Catechists who represented parishes from all regions across the Archdiocese from Mississauga in the West through to Oshawa in the East and from St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica in the heart of downtown Toronto up to Penetanguishene in the North.

Past participants of the program joined for the latter part of the retreat including the closing Mass and lunch.

The Catechist Formation Program is facilitated by members of the Archdiocese’s Office of Formation for Discipleship with guest presenters including Drs. Anna Boyagoda and Josephine Lombardi. The program includes a series of online courses as well as in-person or virtual seminars on a variety of topics including, Spirituality of the Catechist; Walking with Mary through the Liturgical Year; Visio Divina; and more.

The program has rapidly grown in popularity since its launch. Each year, pastors are invited by the Office of Formation for Discipleship to recommend parish ministry leaders to participate in order to further develop their knowledge and understanding on the basics of the Catholic faith and pedagogy. The program also ensures that Catechists are fully aware of the wealth of resources and supports available to them through the Office of Formation for Discipleship. Catechists who have been approved by their pastor/administrator are able to register for the program.

The Archdiocese of Toronto Catechist Formation Program starts each year in October and concludes with a closing retreat in June. For more information, please visit the program page located here. Stay tuned this fall for details on attending the 2024-25 installment.

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