How to cook up a dynamic lesson
Planning a good meal takes time and attention. It includes assembling the ingredients, preparing the food, and setting the right tone. Catechetical planning is much the same. Putting together a solid catechetical lesson is a creative process that involves many of the same elements as a well-planed meal. Let’s take a look at what these are.
Choosing the Menu
Balanced meals have a main course that is complemented by a number of other side dishes. These range from appetizers to desserts, depending on the meal’s formality.
In planning for catechists, it is also necessary to identify the “main course.” What is the primary objective? Once you establish the goal, restate it in your own words. This makes it your own and helps clarify the message you hope to convey. The rest of the lesson should then flow from that goal.
Sketch out the lesson in broad strokes first, making sure that the main point is not overshadowed by other activities. Next, start filling in the details—the “side dishes”—of the plan. Pick some ways to build momentum, to present the central message, and to reinforce the main point. For example, suppose a lesson centers on learning what it means to be a disciple. The “main course” might be the story of Jesus’ call to “come and follow me” (Mt 4:19) and an explanation of the Church’s teaching on the meaning of discipleship. The opening activity could be a story or anecdote about someone who is committed to a particular set of values or beliefs. Later the group might name the things that make it hard to be a disciple in the midst of daily life. Additional activities could include the crafting of a job description for a modern day disciple or taking on a service project within the parish or school.
Considering the Guest list
A good host(ess) keeps in mind the needs and interests of those who are coming to dinner. In the same way, catechists must be aware of the children, both as individuals and as a group. Pick and choose your activities carefully. Some ideas work will with large numbers. Others require smaller groups.
Youngsters each have particular needs. They may require one-on-one help with reading material or in completing an activity. Others may be quiet or shy and need ways to participate that won’t leave them feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed. The “in-and-outers,” those whose attendance is sporadic, may need time to reacquaint themselves with the other children and the class routine.
Attentiveness to the participants can be one of the most challenging and exhausting aspects of catechetical ministry. It is also one of the most essential.
Assembling the Ingredients
After the menu and guest list are completed, it is time to go shopping. So, too, in catechetical planning. What materials do you need and what sort of help can an aide or a parent provide? Pay particular attention to anything that will require special arrangements. A video program, for example, takes extra time reserve, preview, and set up.
Good planning allows catechists the freedom to be present and relaxed with their children. Storing and assembling materials in advance facilitates this process. It is helpful to have a space in which to keep these things on a permanent basis. When this is not possible, use a carryall container, such as a box or a tote bag, as an alternative. This holds the basics, such as markers, scissors, books, a Bible, and other supplies used on a regular basis.
Setting the Table
Arranging the table is a rehearsal of sorts for the meal itself. It puts the final touches to the plan and allows for the color and style that will enhance the meal’s appeal.
Go over your lesson in detail, noting its progression. Use a highlighter or make notes in the margins of your catechist manual. Number the sections or use arrows to help you visualize the flow of the session. Use sticky notes to mark the essential parts of the lesson. Flag other, less important and “if-there’s-time” segments with different colors. The more familiar you are with the lesson, the better. As you rehearse, be mindful of the “main course.” Is it overshadowed by other elements? If so, revise and refine it.
Getting Dressed
Appearing frazzled and breathless when the guests arrive is not the way to establish a welcoming atmosphere. In order to be gracious, relaxed, and confident, a smart host(ess) plans a buffer zone in which to get ready. This might entail soaking in a hot bath before picking out one’s clothes and getting dressed.
Catechists also need a buffer zone between planning and implementation. Take time to pray, first of all, for guidance and sensitivity to the needs of your students. Allow yourself to visualize the time together and anticipate how good it will be to meet, greet, and be present to each person. Soak in a hot bath—literally or figuratively—of positive thoughts and hopeful expectations.
Now you’re ready. Let the meal begin! RTJ
Kathy Hendricks is a speaker and writer with over 25 years’ experience in catechetical and pastoral ministry. Her most recent book is Everything about Parish Ministry I Wish I Had Known (Twenty-Third Publications).
