We have been called to serve not to be served ~ Matthew 20:28

"The proclamation of the Gospel and the Eucharist are the two pillars on which is built and around which gathers the particular Church.  Like the universal Church she also exists for evangelization.  Catechesis is a basic evangelizing activity of every particular Church.  By means of it the diocese gives to all its members, and to all who come with a desire to give themselves to Jesus Christ, a formative process which permits knowledge, celebration, living and proclamation within particular cultural horizon.  In this way the confession of faith - the goal of catechesis - can be proclaimed by the discipline of Christ 'in their own tongues' (Acts 2:11).  As at Pentecost, so also today, the Church of Christ, present and operative in the particular Churches, speaks all languages, since like a growing tree she extends her roots into all cultures.  In all the ministries and services which the particular Church performs to carry out its mission of evangelization, catechesis occupies a position of importance...it is a fundamental ecclesial service, indispendable for the growth of the Church.  It is not an action which can be realized in the community on a private basis or by purley personal initiatice.  The ministry of cathechesis acts in the name of the Church by participating in its mission..." (GDC 218-219)

To be certified as a Catechist you need to complete 80 lecture hours.  The 80 hours will include 20 Leve One classes and 5 Level Two classes.  Level one classes are 2 hours long.  Level 2 classes are 8 hours long.     

List of Level One classes                                          List of Level Two classes

Please note that some methods courses are waved if you are a certified teacher.     

Please check http://nyfaithformation.org/ for the Schedule of Catechist Formation Classes