Faith Formation  Standards

• K-6 Diocesan Catholic Faith Formation Standards (doc)
• United States Conference of Catholic Bishops High School Framework
• Doctrinal Elements of a Curriculum Framework for the development of Catechetical Materials for Young People of High School Age) High School Framework (pdf)

Guidelines for Confirmation Preparation

    Introduction to the Guidelines for the Sacrament of Confirmation (pdf)

In the Ministry in the Word is a catechist formation program sponsored through Catholic Education Ministries. Each two-hour session focuses upon a different aspect of basic formation that helps the catechist become more effective and confident in their ministry of catechesis. This formal, structured, sequential training process is available free of charge to any parish in the Diocese of Saint Cloud.  Upon completion of all 16 sessions, the catechist will received a certificate.

Since the inception of the program in 1994, many catechists have received the certification of completion. Over 350 catechists have participated in catechist formation through In the Ministry of the Word. If you are interested in arranging for this Catechist Formation and Training Process in your parish or area of the Diocese of Saint Cloud, please contact:

 Catholic Education Ministries
305 7th Avenue North
St. Cloud, MN 56303
(320) 251-0111

or  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Downloadable pdf of brochure

Viewable Faith Formation & Youth Ministry Brochure, (click on its upper right corner to turn its page)

Downloadable pdf of Brochure

2012-2013 Faith Formation & Youth Ministry Event Calendar

Frequently Asked Questions about Certification

What is certification?

Certification is a process whereby Lay Ecclesial Ministers are able to demonstrate their competency in ministry and be recognized by the local church as being competent, qualified ministers.

Who is certification for?

Certification is currently for Parish Catechetical Leaders (CRE's, DRE's, Directors of Faith Formation, etc.) and Youth Ministry Leaders.

Why certification?