Presents a tribute to the late Bishop Francis W. Howard for his many contributions to Catholic education. Presents insights into his character: his desire to spread the Catholic faith through Catholic education, his priestly involvements, his keen social awareness, and his work with the National Catholic Educational Association. (VWC)

A Christian community can enliven and enrich an otherwise dead ritual by its attitudinal commitment. (DS)

Explores changes that have taken place in the Catholic Church's understanding of the concepts of "religion" and "faith." Discusses the effects of these changes on the ministry of religious education. Makes suggestions concerning the development of a suitable environment and atmosphere for approaching religious education within…

Seven catechetical theorists and practitioners (Alfred McBride, Berard L. Marthaler, Dan Keller, Mary Ann Johnston, Eileen Loughran, Matt Hayes, and Mike Carotta) discuss the significance of the new "Cathechism of the Catholic Church," which replaces the "Cathechism of the Council of Trent" -- the official catechism of the…

Describes one educator's experiences with developing core K-8 curriculum standards that reflect the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the dimensions of the General Directory for Catechesis. Standards were applied in author's diocese. Also describes pilot year for program and offers some qualitative feedback. (NB)

Offers suggestions for ways in which Catholic educators can set priorities for developing religious education programs. Recommends visual symbols of Catholicism in each classroom, required prayer, a sacred place on campus, spiritual retreats for students, and reaching out to students. Also suggests that students be required to invest hours in…

Introduces Information for Growth (IFG), a self-assessment survey for catechists, accommodating not only religion teachers and catechists but also any adult desiring spiritual growth. Puts forth the experiences with IFG of several leaders in the field of religious education, providing a unique perspective on the benefits of the IFG survey. (VWC)

Contends that Christ's mission to proclaim God's good news of salvation is reaffirmed in the upcoming millennium. States Catholics must help accomplish Christ's mission by answering the baptismal call to missionary work in the community. Lists local and national agencies, dioceses, parishes, and schools that provide mission resources. (11…

Asserts that Catholic schools participate fully in the evangelizing mission and "are the privileged environment in which Christian education is carried out." States that the challenge of bringing faith, life, and culture into harmony is a challenge held in the hands of Catholic school administrators. (VWC)

Describes the creation of the catechetical document, The Catechist in the Third Millennium: Call, Mission, and Formation, which addresses the new urgency and concern for both the quality of catechesis and those who are called to this ministry. Discusses challenges identified in the document and relates the enthusiasm for implementing a new vision.…

Addresses the moral and ethical issues of technology's impact on human beings and the community in the 21st century. Asserts that Catholic educators must have a parallel education that equips students with a strong foundation of Catholic Christian moral perspectives. (VWC)

Advises Catholic school principals to find a quiet place each day where distractions can be placed aside for 15 minutes to contemplate spirituality. Argues that by allowing their relationship with God to permeate their busy administration, principals' mindfulness can help foster school spirituality by providing catechetical leadership for their…

Offers advice from a priest and educator on ministering to the Catholic community, including: (1) collaborating and sharing responsibilities; (2) scheduling regular staff meetings that include an agenda, prayer, and minutes; (3) being hospitable; (4) communicating with and listening to church members; (4) taking advantage of archdiocese resources;…

Describes the revision of the National Catechetical Directory (NCD), an ongoing project of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Education, in conjunction with a bishops' editorial oversight board (EOB). States that writing is underway and will be completed following consultations with Catholic communities and organizations. (NB)

Describes the founding and mission of SIGNIS, a Catholic communications organization that strives to promote the personal, social, and cultural life of all people and their communities. States that SIGNIS unites two international Catholic associations, UNDA and OCIC; both were involved in communication and media since 1928. (NB)