Catechists prepare young people to proclaim the Good News and respond to the Gospel message through a greater understanding and deeper appreciation of God’s loving acts. The goals of the program are to teach Christ’s message, encourage parents to assume their responsibility as the primary religious educators of their child, enrich each child’s prayer life, encourage participation in the liturgy and sacraments, and provide opportunities for the children to express concern for others through apostolic service with the parish family and beyond.