Volume XV, Issue XVIII May 11, 2026 | |
Echoes~
Your Weekly Catechetical News from the
Office of Christian Formation
| | Looking forward to celebrating the end of the year with the catechetical leaders tomorrow. | |
Summary from the Two Zooms
A year for the catechumenate for catechumens is Easter to Easter, with the preference being an early Lent start in order that they experience the entire liturgical year. A shortened catechumenate for any catechumens is a decision of the Bishop.
Convalidations occur before the celebration of sacraments.
Updated Right Rite
When families are coming into the Church together, this is a case-by-case decision. Normally children need 2 years of formation prior to sacraments.
Catechumens have rights and responsibilities after they celebrate the Rite of Acceptance. See norms 8 and 9.
Every parish must maintain a register of those catechumens who celebrate the Rite of Acceptance. This is an official sacramental register and is to be treated as such.
We discussed possible timelines for candidates. Erin to provide at least one flexible option.
For candidates, the Rite of Acceptance can be celebrated 3-4 times in a year as needed. The penitential rite should be done when candidates are ready.
Those coming from an Orthodox Tradition do not need a full process. They do not participate in any rites and are received by simple profession of faith when ready. All of their sacraments are valid.
For your planning: There will be 3 Rites of Election celebrated in 2027:
Sunday, February 14 at 2:00 pm
Saturday, February 20 at 1:00 pm
Sunday, February 21 at 2:00 pm
If we do not need all three, we will cancel on the Saturday.
From our friends at the Tribunal: Easter is early this coming year. Therefore, the deadline to submit all, that is all paperwork for a full annulment will be July 15, 2026. Recall, this also does not mean an annulment will be automatically granted after 8 months or that it will only take 8 months. This is a best guess.
A Workshop on Marriage Law for Parish Professionals
An Introduction for parish workers, particularly those who are involved in OCIA, on the annulment process will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in the St. Cahterine Room on Saturday, July 25 from 9:30 am - noon. This workshop will aid you in accompanying people through the annulment process, especially those in the OCIA, covering the following:
~ The basics of the process
~ Key terminology
~ A look at the various types of annulments
~The timeline
$5 donation for handouts taken at the door.
Jotform to register
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Neophyte Mass~ Day of Reflection
Bishop Pohlmeier, in his role as Shepherd of the Diocese, oversees all sacraments, but in particular he is to take care that the newly baptized adults, children of catechetical age, are aware of his concern for them as they are "newly planted." (OCIA 247-251)
All catechumens who were initiated at the Easter Vigil this year are invited to an afternoon of Reflection on Sunday, June 21, 2026 at San José Parish 3619 Toledo Road Jacksonville, FL 32217
Schedule:
2:00 pm Gathering in the parish hall
Reflecting on the Journey with Bishop Erik T. Pohlmeier
5:00 pm Celebration of the Mass inchurch
6:30 pm Dinner and Social
This invitation has been sent to all of the neophytes...please encourage them to respond to this invitation.
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Adult Confirmation Dates for 2027:
Saturday, January 16 at 5:00 pm
(Epiphany Parish, Lake City)
Sunday, May 16 at 2:00 pm (Cathedral Basilica)
August 14 5:00 pm (Location TBD in Jacksonville)
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Vatican II Documents
Last year, during the Year of Hope, the Office of Christian Formation held a once-a-month series on the documents of Vatican II. This was one of the suggested activities for the year. We taped each one and promised to share them. When they are all ready, they will be on the diocesan website and on the YouTube channel. We have two of them ready via YouTube and I share them below.
Bishop Pohlmeier ~ Lumen Gentium (Church) 1 hour 38 minutes
Fr. Tom Willis ~ Sacrosanctum Concilium (Liturgy) 1 hour, 42 minutes
As a happy coincidence, Pope Leo XIV has chosen to use his Wednesday audiences for catechesis on the Vatican II documents. He explained during his January 7, 2026 audience that:
“It will be important to get to know [the Second Vatican Council] again closely, and to do so not through ‘hearsay’ or interpretations that have been given, but by rereading its documents and reflecting on their content.”
You can listen to these audiences on:
Spotify
Vatican News Agency
Vatican Youtube
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Fostering Belonging
This resource is a guide to using an STM Online: Encore presentation as a conversation starter with members of a faith community. Each part of the presentation may be used separately, in combination with each other, or in a sequence over a period of time.
The general nature of “Fostering Belonging” gives it broad application and makes it an excellent choice for a variety of groups. For example, consider using one or several of the segments with a parish council, a hospitality committee, catechists, Catholic school faculty, and high school religion classes. If you are looking for a service opportunity for a high school confirmation class, consider leading a discussion around Parts 3 and 5, and commit to implementing one recommendation to enhance belonging in the community.
OVERVIEW OF THE PRESENTATION Erik W. Carter offers ten elements of belonging: to be present, invited, welcomed, known, accepted, supported, cared for, befriended, needed, and loved. Focused on moving from barriers to inclusion of persons with special needs in a faith community, Carter provides an inventory through which any faith-based community—parish, school, classroom, committee—can evaluate itself on how it engenders a sense of belonging. Carter also offers many concrete strategies for inclusion.
Erik W. Carter is Cornelius Vanderbilt Chair and Professor of Special Education at Vanderbilt University.
Fostering belonging
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18th Annual Summer School of Theology (newly updated)
We have had to replace our speaker due to an unforeseen circumstance. We have found an equally engaging Augustinian to replace Fr. Gary ~ Fr. Art Purcaro.
Fr. Art Purcaro is an Augustinian priest who has spent many of his years ministering in the desert and the Andes of the Augustinian mission in Chulucanas, Peru (1971-2015). During some of that time, he served as a member of the General Council of the Order of St. Augustine in Rome. Fr. Art worked closely with Rev. Robert Prevost, O.S.A., now Pope Leo XIV in both Peru and in Rome.
Fr Art has been involved in the pastoral renewal program sponsored by the Better World Movement based on promoting the spirituality and ecclesiology of communion. He has taught in various formation programs and seminaries in many parts of the world. He is currently serving as Assistant Vice President for Mission and Ministry at Villanova University where he also teaches theology.
Schedule each day is 9:00 am - 3:30 pm with Mass celebrated each day prior to lunch.
Our new theme will be: "Building a Better World: A Contemporary Augustinian Perspective
A new outline is being developed.
Jotform to register This is being updated to reflect this change. It will be updated next week.
When you register, we will provide the book for the week
This is a Level III (Continuing Formation Opportunity)
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Catechetical Sunday, September 20, 2026
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to bring good news to the poor”
Lk 4:18; cf. Is 61:1
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to bring good news to the poor” (Lk 4:18; cf. Is 61:1) reveals Jesus’ mission and identity. Anointed by the Holy Spirit, he is sent to bring hope, healing, and freedom—especially to the poor, the brokenhearted, and the forgotten.
This passage shows that the Messiah comes not with power or status, but with compassion, restoring dignity and proclaiming God’s mercy. It also becomes a model for the Church, us, which is called to continue Christ’s work by sharing the Good News and caring for those most in need.
Materials are posted on the USCCB website:
Certificate (English)
Certificate (Spanish)
Posters and Prayer Cards also available for free download.
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We Hold These Truths
As the United States of America commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the USCCB joins this celebration by lifting up the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country.
In a historic moment, the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 11, 2026, and invite all parishes to join in this consecration.
Consecration and Prayer Resources
Livestream of the June 11th Consecration to the Sacred Heart
YouTube to watch live
The Consecration of the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus will take place in the context of a Votive Mass on June 11, in Orlando, with all the bishops gathered in Plenary Assembly. A livestream will be available on the USCCB YouTube channel.
Local Celebrations of the Consecration of the United States of America to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Local Celebrations
This resource is provided so that dioceses and parishes may unite themselves in prayer to the event of consecration done by the bishops. These local celebrations may take place on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, or on any day that a Votive Mass to the Most Sacred Heart may be celebrated.
The prayers in this resource have been adjusted to reflect that it is a celebration of the bishops having consecrated the country and is not the consecration itself. The resource includes a place to include a petition for the needs of the local community.
Reflection on the Consecration to the Sacred Heart, by Archbishop Alexander Sample
Reflection on the Sacred Heart~ Archbishop Sample
Consecration Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Prayer ~ Sacred Heart of Jesus
Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Novena ~ Sacred Heart of Jesus
250 Hours of Adoration
250 Hours of Devotion
250 Works of Mercy
250 Hours of mercy
Knights of Columbus home enthronement materials
KofC enthronement materials
Pope’s Prayer Network materials
Popeprayerusa
| | Local Information on Pilgrimage | |
The Roman Missal in Large Print
Exciting news! Xavier Society for the Blind is delighted to announce that we will soon be providing the Roman Missal in large print! After 20 years of dedicated service, our friends at the National Catholic Partnership on Disability (NCPD) are passing the torch on to us. This transition centralizes the production of accessible liturgical texts, ensuring that clergy with visual impairments and low vision can continue to lead the liturgy without barriers. As always, this resource will be provided free-of-charge thanks to our generous donors. (the OCF)
For a priest or deacon, being able to read the prayers of the Roman Missal is essential to "stewarding the mysteries of God." By taking over this ministry, Xavier Society ensures that:
- Clergy can maintain their independence at the altar.
- The Large-Print Roman Missal remains available as a standard resource.
- The legacy of accessibility started by the NCPD is preserved and potentially expanded into new formats.
If you are a priest or deacon in need, or know of anyone who may benefit from our free, large print offerings, please call us at 800-637-9193 or email info@xaviersocietyfortheblind.org
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NCPD Summer Intensive on Accompanying Aging Populations
NCPD Summer Intensive on Accompanying Aging Populations
Mon, 06/08/2026 - 1:00pm EDT to Thu, 06/11/2026 - 4:00pm EDT
The Summer Intensive on Accompanying Aging Populations is for diocesan and parish leadership and anyone interested in this important topic.
The event is online via Zoom.
Day One - Session One
Topic: Spirituality and the Blessings of Aging
Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Archbishop Emeritus, Archdiocese of Louisville
Day One - Session Two
Topic: Supporting Caregivers
Evelyn Fink, Ph.D., BCC Parish Volunteer Minister, St. Patrick's Parish Anchorage, AK
Day Two - Session One
Topic: Living at the End of Life
Rick Becker, DNP Assistant Professor of Nursing Science, Saint Mary's College
Day Two - Session Two
Topic: Supporting Parishioners with Dementia
Tom Hayes and Carolyn Klaver
Details coming soon!
Day Three - Session One
Topic: Voices of the Aging
Join us to learn from a panel of persons who are experiencing age-related limitations and changes to how they can participate in parish life.
Day Three - Session Two
Topic: Supporting Mental Well-Being of the Aging
Day Four - Session One
Topic: Ministry of Consolation
Ricardo Medina, Ph.D. Director of the Office of Family Life of the Archdiocese of Galveston–Houston
Day Four - Session Two
Topic: Preparing for a Physically Aging Congregation
William Bonn, Chair, Art & Architecture Committee, Diocese of Salt Lake City
More info and to register we are an affiliate diocese and I am an individual donor
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Updated Certification Record Forms for Basic, Standard, and Continuing Formation (Level I, Level II, and Level III)
We have updated these forms to "fill-in-able" forms. This is in order help you create a more professional presentation when you submit them. Yes, many that we receive are difficult to decipher.
After May 31, only the "fill in able" forms will be accepted. Forms can be typed into, saved on your computer, and eventually printed and scanned in.
Basic (level I)
Standard (level II)
Continuing (Level III)
Requirements for Level III (Continuing Formation)
"Continuing Certification (Level III) A continuing professional development
component to help the catechist maintain his/her current level of certification. Every
three (3) years, a catechist, principal, DRE/CRE/Diocesan Formation staff member
must submit a record of thirty (30) hours of formation in the Catholic faith.
Professional continuing formation increases one’s knowledge of the Catholic Faith and
gives better skills in imparting that faith and sharing the Gospel more effectively.
Suggestions would be: workshops, online classes, Catechism Studies, approved Bible
studies"
Presenters of …
• Basic Certification theology courses must possess a B.A. in Religious
Education or Theology from an accredited Catholic institution or be graduates of
the Ministry Formation Program (MFP).
• Standard Certification courses must possess an M.A. in Religious Education
or Theology from an accredited Catholic institution.
• Continuing formation opportunities should be presented by those who
possess the same qualifications as someone who would present Basic or Standard
Certification.
| | Basic Certification (Level I) | | |
Basic Certification (Level I)
Summer Offering:
Catholic School Special~ St. Paul, Jacksonville Beach, June 15 -18, 2026
Registration is now open:
Jotform to register
Locations so far in the next academic year:
August: St. Patrick, Jacksonville
August 8, 2026 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Faith Development and Practical Skills
August 9, 2026 noon -5:30 pm Liturgy and Sacraments and Basic Beliefs
August 22, 2026 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Scripture and Church
August 23, 2026 noon - 5:30 pm Role of the Catechist and Practical Skills
Jotform to register
Registration will open soon:
September: Holy Family School and San Jose School
September 12 and 13 at San Jose School
September 26-27 at Holy Family School
November: St. Matthew Parish
November 7 and 8
November 21 and 22
January: St. Anasatasia
January 9 and 10
January 23 and 24
June: St Patrick School, Gainesville
| | Standard Certification (Level II) | | Continuing Formation (Level III) Opportunities | | |
Saints Series Part 1
Presented by Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo
Wednesday, May 13, 4 p.m. EDT
Join us for this free webinar, part of our Saints Series, to reflect on Saint Francis of Assisi. In this series of free webinars, we will explore the lives of different saints and expand our faith through inspiring stories, reflection, and practical application.
About the Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo
Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo is a priest of the Diocese of Assisi, a theologian, a CBS Vatican correspondent. and author with extensive international experience in priestly formation, seminary leadership, and pastoral ministry. After a career in international banking in the financial district of London, he discerned a call to the priesthood and went on to serve the Church in a variety of significant roles. He holds a doctorate in Sacred Theology (STD) and has taught in both seminary and university settings. He has served in significant roles within the Church, including work in Rome and the Vatican Curia, as well as leadership positions in seminary formation. He currently serves as Director of International Affairs for the Diocese of Assisi, Italy, where he is based.
Living in Assisi—the home of Saint Francis of Assisi and the resting place of Saint Carlo Acutis, Monsignor Figueiredo brings a unique, lived perspective to the spirituality of the saints. He is closely associated with the devotion to Carlo Acutis, having written on his life and helped promote his witness worldwide, including overseeing relic pilgrimages.
A gifted speaker and educator, and author of several books and many articles, Monsignor Figueiredo is known for his engaging presentations that help others encounter Christ more deeply through Scripture and the lives of the saints, especially during this 800th anniversary year of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Sadlier Saints
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