Inspiration for Community

Shawn and I feel very grateful that this is our 3rd year serving as catechists for the kindergarten and first grade faith formation students. Being able to do this alongside each other has been an incredible learning opportunity. We started teaching together as we were preparing for marriage. It has made us realize how important service is in our vocation.

In a way we really do grow with the children. It is rewarding to see previous students receive Eucharist during Mass, sing in the children’s choir, and lead portions of group activities. And it was exciting to have their younger siblings in class. Shawn’s graduate school ramped up this past spring semester so it was rewarding to teach with my mom.

When I think of students at this age the first word that comes to mind is generosity. They are often overflowing with eagerness to ask questions and understand more about their faith. They like praying together. They love to express themselves through art. They do a great job of helping one another. Our Faith Formation Director, Laura, will often remind us that class should be fun and that our goal is that students be excited to come.

We speak about building community and I think that it is no different for children. Our students will excitedly tell us that they saw one another outside of St. John’s. We see friendships form in real time with kids that don’t live in their neighborhood or go to their school. They are connected through their faith.

There are big emotions tied to this work. For three years now we have witnessed young children begin to understand what happened in the days leading up to Easter. It is incredibly moving. They ask insightful questions about grace, forgiveness, and sacrifice. They remind me on a weekly basis to take better care of my neighbor and to love as Jesus does.

I remember three years ago when Father Mahon made the announcement at the end of Mass that they were looking for more catechists for the upcoming year. I quickly disqualified myself because I had never done it before and I did not work with children at my job. But the thought of trying it out kept revisiting me and I am very glad I said yes. If it is on your heart to try something new, I encourage you to reach out.

Rebecca & Shawn Bromelkamp