Catechists in Ethiopia are currently the primary focus of a new training initiative in the apostolic vicariate of Hawassa, a vast region covering some 118,000 km². Given that this area is roughly one-third the size of Germany and features many inaccessible villages, these lay leaders are indispensable for the transmission of the Catholic faith.
The crucial role of catechists in Ethiopia
The vicariate is divided into only 20 parishes, making it impossible for the few available priests to visit every community frequently. In many remote villages, Holy Mass is celebrated only every two or three weeks.
«Every chapel community has its own lay catechist, who prays with the people, instructs the children, young people and adults in the Catholic faith and celebrates prayer meetings and services of the Word».
Strengthening the faith at Dongora Centre
While dedicated, many catechists in the region still have an inadequate grounding in theology and teaching skills. Without thorough training, there is a real danger that young people might be wooed away by active sects operating in the area.
To address this, 300 catechists will attend an intensive ongoing training course at the catechetical centre in Dongora. Although the cost per person is a modest €58, the total of 17,500 Euros exceeds the vicariate’s resources. ACN is calling for support to help these «good shepherds» strengthen the faith of thousands of people across the south of the country.
