ABSECON – Renee Krumaker gets tears in her eyes when speaking about her role shepherding adults in the Catholic faith.
“It’s a grace from God,” Krumaker, who leads the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults program in Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, says with a catch in her throat. “I’m always fascinated how the Holy Spirit moves in people’s lives to bring them to the Church. Their stories are truly amazing, and I love hearing how the pieces fall into place that lead them to say, ‘I need to come to the Catholic Church.’”
Krumaker and more than a dozen men and women who teach religious education in the parish were blessed and commissioned Sept. 18, Catechetical Sunday. Before the Mass, a slideshow set to music was shown in the church that featured clergy and catechists interacting with the parish community during festive and faith-based events over the past year.
Though Catechetical Sunday recognizes those who serve formally in the role as catechist, staff hosted a continental breakfast after Mass as well to celebrate the entire parish community. Tables promoting the parish’s numerous religious education programs were set up around the church hall, with catechists meeting and greeting those of all ages. There were also activities for young families centered on the Real Presence in the Eucharist.
“It’s important for us to let every parishioner know that they are part of this ministry, even those who don’t have children,” said Diane Keenan, director of religious education. “Catechesis is intergenerational. Even by offering a simple prayer for the kids or a smile to an adult, every parishioner is part of one, big catechetical family.”
Indeed, that warm welcome was on full display as Father Cosme de la Peña, pastor; Father Logan Nilsen, parochial vicar, and Deacon Richard Wigglesworth shared laughs and breakfast with parishioners in the church hall.
As she stood at her table that was covered in RCIA literature, Krumaker explained that adults in her class are not just those entering into the Catholic Church. “Some adults come because they are looking to learn more about their faith. A lot of people in past generations were taught ‘what’ to do, but didn’t get taught the ‘why.’ The ‘why’ is important, especially now with the Eucharist Revival.”
She says she is moved when she sees people who didn’t understand the Real Presence now genuflect before the Eucharist.
“We are called to share our faith – to bring souls to God,” she says. “It’s a vocation.”
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