“My people perish for a lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4:6)
If we are to be honest with ourselves, catechism lessons posed a great challenge to most of us because there was no choice; it was either catechesis or household chores the whole afternoon. We had to toe the line of our elder brothers and sisters. Why was there so much inner struggle when it came to catechism classes?
Firstly, other than an old boring man/woman, the catechist received none or minimal training. Most catechists were very rough and tough. It was, “anybody can do it”. Often times, there was a certain fear and dislike of the catechist because s/he was the big eye either of the parish priest, principal or our parents.
Today am highly convinced that we are outgrowing and progressively erasing these portrait of a catechist because HESA, in collaboration with Association of Sisterhoods of Kenya (AOSK) and Chemchemi ya Uzima Centre, is training a new breed of catechists who are integrated. I am convinced and have firsthand experience that their impact is already being felt.
When ASEC entrusts Chemchemi with very vibrant and up-to-task sister catechists, in collaboration with the faculty of Theology, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, we take the responsibility of making sure that the course is tailored for holistic formation. Catechism has nothing to do with psychism but proper and sound formation of the catechumen.
With most theological discourse being male dominated, slowly but steadily, the female perspective is filtering in, thanks to ASEC. Other than having the best training, we have digital catechists, who can efficiently and effectively use modern technology. Consequently, equipping our sisters with a Degree in Catechesis is a sure way that ASEC is giving back to the church and society immensely especially in the area of evangelization.
Long life ASEC. Asante sana!
