Catechetical Formation Program

It is the goal of the Diocese of Knoxville Office of Christian Formation to provide all required Continuing Religious Education (CRE) necessary for each catechist of the diocese at no charge to the learner. To provide course offerings that are varied and valuable to both catechists and the parish religious education programs, the Office of Christian Formation will make every effort to continue building a library of offerings that can be accessed on the DRE webpage.

Guidelines for Catechists' Continuing Formation and Certification
• Catechists previously certified in the diocese will maintain that certification with the expectation of continuing formation maintenance.
• New catechists who have not previously been certified will obtain initial certification during the 2024 calendar year.
• All catechists may continue assigned parish teaching roles for the remainder of 2023 without regard for certification. Note: The Director of Religious Education should meet with new catechists to assess and ensure there is adequate grasp the material that will be taught by the catechist.

Annual CRE Requirements
Catechists previously or currently certified: six (6) contact hours
Catechists seeking initial certification: eight (8) contact hours

Options to Consider*
• Franciscan University at Home Catechetical Institute Tracks
• Diocesan hosted conferences (live or online)
• Online or In-person offerings approved by DRE or RCIA Coordinator
• Other independent study approved by DRE or RCIA Coordinator

*The DRE and RCIA Coordinator should carefully consider both the needs of the parish program as well as the needs of the individual catechist when helping select the appropriate offerings for certification.
It is preferable to conduct CI tracks or other offerings as a group one night per month during what would normally be class time. Students should be given home study options for this time. Approaching CRE in this way will allow those catechists with hectic schedules and family responsibilities to obtain and maintain certification without having to sacrifice in these other personal areas. This is the preferred approach of the Diocese of Knoxville as it allows for better life balance of the catechists, as well as quality for the parish programs.

Reporting of CRE Hours
As each course is completed, either the catechist, DRE, or RCIA Coordinator should enter the information for that course into the Continuing Formation Form located on the DRE/Catechist Portal webpage.