Monsignor Don Kiernan recently honored over 200 catechists and volunteers in the school of religion programs at St. Jude. In a homily, he praised them for their dedication and commitment, mentioning that all volunteers in the school of religion are building the foundation of faith by their witness in the classroom. The congregation then added their appreciation by giving the catechists a big round of applause.

Monsignor Kiernan then thanked the coordinators of each department: Bea Ollinger, adult education; Candee Elrod, youth ministry; Barbara Hession, elementary; Toni Miralles, special education; Anita Willoughby, early childhood.

Certificates of appreciation for “remembering how you have helped spread the Good News” (Phil. 1:15) were presented to each catechist and volunteer.

The folk group under the direction of Mrs. Florence Grimes added to the occasion by singing such appropriate selection as “Pass It On” and “Go Forth and Witness.” The gift bearers represented the various departments in the school of religion.

This year the end of the year celebration honoring the catechists included their families. As one of the coordinators said, “We wanted to include the family because the whole family is affected when one members offers time and effort in reeducating others to faith. This was an opportunity for the families to be a witness to the value the church places upon the volunteer catechist, and to join in the celebration!”

A family-style picnic on the school lawn followed the Mass. Over 300 moms, dads, children and teens enjoyed a fried chicken supper and ice cream cones. “It was not just another party,” as one child commented. “This is something special because you and Dad teach Sunday School.”