John Bosco Conference at Franciscan Univ

[KCT]

Has anyone attended the John Bosco Catechist Conference in Steubenville? I’m considering the DRE track for my certification.

I would have to commit to attending for 5 summers, which is probably fine. My boss is a Steubenville fan, so while I have to run it by him, I think he’d approve.

Just curious if anyone had been and what opinions are out there. . .

 

[dconklin]

I attended in July and loved it! I am an alum from the 80s and loved being back there. I am an Asst DRE because I graduated from FUS with two Business degrees and thus not really DRE material here without a Theology degree, so I am following the DRE track but not going for the certification. I actually prefer this because it won’t matter if I have to miss a year. It is very Catholic! John Paul and Benedict’s teachings are the basis for much of what is taught.

Work-wise, it is not your whole summer. It is actually three work days as programming begins on Wednesday evening and concludes Sunday at noon. The days are packed, but it is a good packed. The presenters and attendees are all awesome people and there is even social time worked in. And the Masses and Holy Hours… I cannot wait until next year.

Hope you get to go. You and your parish will benefit!

 

[KCT]

I’m also an alum from the 80’s - 1984.

Here in Baltimore, one has to have a Masters (presumably in Theology) to be a DRE. A Bachelors makes one a CRE. (C being Coordinator, not Director) My Bachelors is in Education!

My boss told me today he doesn’t care if I don’t get a Masters; he just wants someone who is organized and can communicate well with parents and staff.

However, I would like to further my education. The current pastor is in his late 60’s; another pastor might expect more education. Plus, I would love to learn and become better educated about my position.

At this point, it’s either the John Bosco Conference DRE track or a Masters Certificate in Evangelization & Catechesis from Augustine Institute. I have time to decide . . .

 

[puzzleannie]

Has anyone attended the John Bosco Catechist Conference in Steubenville? I’m considering the DRE track for my certification.

I would have to commit to attending for 5 summers, which is probably fine. My boss is a Steubenville fan, so while I have to run it by him, I think he’d approve.

Just curious if anyone had been and what opinions are out there. . .

I completed my catechist certification first, in the second “class” from SJBCC, and then my DRE certification. Since I go home to Ohio every summer to visit it was relatively simple to work it in. I would like to complete RCIA certification there but it has not been possible the last couple of years. My diocese does not recognize it, although it is supposed to be a national certification, but the new director under the new bishop is reviewing my credentials. So I cannot really call myself a DRE here although everyone uses the shorthand anyhow.

find out what your diocese requires but as far as the training, I have done certification in 3 diocese and attended 2 college theology programs, and there is nothing to compare with the quality and rigor, except actually attending the university itself in residence or by distance learning. Barbara Morgan personally has raised the bar for catechist education.

 

[KCT]

Thanks, puzzleannie . . . Right now I am leaning towards the SJB Conference, but who knows what will happen between now and registration time. I like the idea of a summer intensive, but the 7 courses I’d take from Augustine Institute (distance education - on my own schedule) also look terrific. I’m glad to have such good options.

In addition, our diocese will be getting a new bishop . . . possibly more changes.