An Idea is Born: How Soy catequista Came About

• This event began with an idea that William S. Dinger, President, William H. Sadlier, Inc., conceived over two years ago. He wanted to discover if the approaches to catechesis in Latino communities differed from the approaches used in the English-speaking communities. If they did, he wanted to learn what they were and implement ways in which William H. Sadlier, Inc. could support these efforts.
• Conversations with Rev. Virgilio Elizondo and others at the University of Notre Dame—which has been at the forefront of addressing the issues of multiculturalism and outreach to the Latino community—resulted in a 2004 meeting at Notre Dame. Bill Dinger described his vision and an initial approach for the Soy catequista consultation was formulated.
• In 2005 the discussions continued with national catechetical leaders during the Spring meeting of the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership. In August of that year, the Soy catequista committee met and developed the final approach and agenda.
• In February 2006, the Soy catequista committee mailed letters to leaders in the catechetical Latino communities throughout the United States explaining that one of the critical components of Soy catequista would be brief (3-5 minute) presentations made by parish catechetical leaders and catechists who are doing “what works in catechesis in Latino communities” in their parishes. The leaders were invited to nominate catechists using effective catechetical programs and who would contribute to the wisdom sharing at Soy catequista.
• From the many nominations received, thirteen people from across the United States were invited to attend.

  
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