Roman Catholic Diocese of Hamilton in Bermuda

Continuing Christian Development

Pope John Paul II followed the II Vatican Council’s teachings when he challenged parents to accept their ministry of catechizing their own children with tireless zeal. He stressed that the family’s work of catechesis has an irreplaceable character. We know that education is not limited to just what is taught in the classroom. With religious education that is truer now than ever before. In order to help you in understanding the Continuing Christian Development Ministry of the Roman Catholic Church here are a few questions and answers that are often asked.

What is the mission of the CCD Ministry?
We believe the Catholic Church in Bermuda is called to promote family life. In the CCD Ministry our mission is to effectively assist parents to fulfill their role as the primary religious educators of their children.

What are the objectives of the CCD Ministry?
To use the four pillars of faith as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Creed – Worship & Sacraments – Morality – Christian Prayer- as the basis for the instruction of our young students so that they may recognize that what we believe, how we worship, how we live and how we pray makes a difference in our lives.

How old does our child have to be to join CCD?
Children are accepted at the age of 5 years old.

Do we have to start at kindergarten or can we go straight to a sacrament class?
Parents are encouraged to enroll their children in any parish program that takes place during liturgy as soon as they are ready for community sharing. Children’s liturgy at family Mass is a great starting point for most young members. Sacrament classes require a minimum of two years formal preparation, and regular attendance in faith formation throughout the young member’s life.

When and where do we register for CCD?
Registration for kindergarten and first time attendees is held during the month of May each year. An application form, plus a copy of child’s baptismal certificate and CCD fee should be given to your Parish Pastor or Catechetical Coordinator before the last Sunday in May. All other registrations must be made by application to the Director of religious education at The Diocesan Centre, Laffan Street, Hamilton.

Are we required to register each year?
Yes. In order to purchase material, supplies and for statistical requirements the diocesan office requires the number of students registered each year. The most cost effective method for the diocese is for each child to re-register prior to commencement of school year.

Why is there a cost to CCD?
Continuing Christian Development ministry in our diocese operates with nearly 100 Volunteers. which includes Parish Coordinators, Catechists and aides. We host 400  families, offering formal study to 500+ children. The Director of religious education organizes the scholastic year, coordinators, catechists and sacramental programs. This is a full time position financed by the Diocese and operates from The Diocesan Centre Monday to Friday from 9 AM to  4 PM.

Materials such as textbooks, catechist manuals, crayons, videos, and materials for catechist and sacrament workshops are all purchased by the Diocese. As an important role in stewardship of your faith the CCD families are required to assist in the financing of this ministry with an annual fee.

What is the role of the Parish Catechetical Coordinator?
Each parish has a volunteer PCC; his/her role is to ensure the smooth running of the parish CCD ministry. PCC’s meet monthly with the Director of Religious Education to ensure that catechists and students are empowered to experience quality faith sharing.

What is the role of a catechist?
The Roman Catholic Church firmly believes that the family is the primary religious educator of their children. Catechists assist in reinforcing the teachings of the four pillars of our faith: Creed, Worship and sacraments, Morality, Christian Prayer. The objectives of our catechists are to help our young members to recognize that what we believe, how we worship, how we live and how we pray make a difference in our lives.

How can I become a catechist?
Catechism is a ministry! Those who wish to volunteer should contact their parish priest or call The Diocesan Office at 292-1981 for more information.

How can I help my child/children with their catechism at home?
The Diocesan Office offers a variety of videos and books that can be borrowed. Continuing Christian Development –CCD class teaches the children about the Creed. They learn how God revealed himself through history and is still revealing himself today. The children learn about the Bible as a primary source of God’s revelation. They learn about the Trinity and our belief in God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We encourage you to read your children’s book. It will help you to see exactly what your child is learning and help you to engage your child in conversation about what he or she is learning. Use the activity sheets sent home each week to reinforce what has been shared in class.

What difference does it make?
Help your child to see what a difference God has made in your life. You may want to share some times that you have felt especially blessed by God, or perhaps a time of trouble when you turned to God for help. As you read through the lessons in your child’s book, think of ways that you can help your child see what difference this knowledge can make in his or her own life. Adapt what is in the books to the child in your home and his or her life experience. Help your child reflect on the people and events in his or her life and how God is part of those times. In this way you help your child learn lessons about God’s love that can last a lifetime.

Remember: Children use the religious words and do the religious things that seem important to grown ups around them. So, what we believe, how we worship, how we live and how we pray make a difference in their lives too.

If you have other questions, please do not hesitate to call 441-292-1981.
or
eMail: CCD@NorthRock.bm

We look forward to hearing from you!