Morning for RCIA leaders

All who lead or assist with RCIA are invited by the Catechetics Commission for a morning workshop.

Register at: bit.ly/4mgG764

t takes place on Saturday 31 May from 9:30am – 12:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, EH9 1BB.

The day will begin with Mass, include a time of discussion and sharing, and end with a brief consideration on mystagogy.

The aim is for the Catechetics Commission to learn about your experiences in your parishes, and to think together about best practices.

Event organised by the Catechetics Commission of The Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh. Questions? Email srmiriam.ruth@staned.org.uk

Register now for the Diploma in Catechetics 2025!

We invite you to explore the riches and depth of the Catholic Faith by registering for the Diploma in Catechetics 2025.

To celebrate the Holy Year of 2025 we are offering this year-long course for just £125 (usually £200)! Register now

The Diploma is a great way to deepen, renew, or even initiate your understanding of the Catholic Faith.

  • Sessions are each Thursday on Zoom at 7:30pm (1hr max).
  • Includes guided reading and regular 1-to-1 support.
  • Sessions are delivered by Sr Miram Ruth RSM and a range of expert speakers.

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This course changed my heart and brought it closer to God. Gordon Hamilton, Edinburgh

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The course begins in January 2025 and you can register now on our Eventbrite page.

Rich exploration

Course leader Sr Miriam Ruth Ryan RSM said: "Register today to embark on an ordered and rich exploration of the Catholic faith, centered in the Person Jesus Christ.

"It is a great way to  deepen, renew, or even initiate your understanding of and participation in the Catholic faith. To help you do that we have weekly lectures, guided reading, and regular 1-to-1 support.

"As 2025 is a Holy Year for the global church, with an emphasis on renewal and hope, we wanted to offer the course at a reduced cost and with additional scholarships and bursaries.

"So we hope that will encourage people to do something special for the Holy Year and initiate something new in 2025."

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It was a wonderful, eye-opening and exciting experience to do the Diploma in Catechetics. Mary Murphy, Musselburgh

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Need to know

    • Course begins Thursday 23 January and ends Thursday 11 December, with July-August summer break (36 sessions total).
    • Sessions are Thursdays on Zoom at 7:30pm (1hr max) and recorded for catch-up (private YouTubelink sent out each week).
    • Sessions delivered by Sr Miram Ruth RSM and a range of expert speakers.
    • Sessions organised into six modules: Vocation of the laity, Old Testament, New Testament, Sacraments, Systematic Theology and Moral Theology.
    • One-to-one sessions with Sr Miriam Ruth or another leader after each module.
    • In recognition of the Holy Year 2025 the course is only £125 (normally £200).
    • Register on Eventbrite here.

FAQs

Do I have to tune in live each Thursday?
No. A recording of the most recent session is sent out each Friday. Students are welcome to watch on catch-up if they cannot tune in on Thursdays.

Do I need to buy course material?
No. We do recommend a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, but it is also available free online.

Do I have to sit an exam?
There are no exams. Each module concludes with a one-to-one conversation on Zoom with one of the course leaders. In the meeting, you’ll talk about what you’ve learnt and ask any questions you still have.

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A joyful, creative re-affirmation of faith which I found inspiring and deeply encouraging. Christopher Layden, Edinburgh

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Is the course difficult?
Like any course, some elements may be challenging. That's why we have gathered a range of speakers who are experienced in simplifying difficult concepts in an engaging way. Each session ends with Q&A, so you can ask for clarifications at that time too.

Can I take part if I'm not in the Archdiocese?
Yes, everyone is welcome regardless of where they are based.

Can I take part if I am not Catholic?
Absolutely, if you are earnestly seeking to understand the Catholic faith better, you are very welcome!

What's the big deal about the Holy Year?
Every 25 years, the Church celebrates a Holy Year or Jubilee: a time of forgiveness, renewal, and revival. The tradition stems from ancient Israel - before Jesus' time - when every 50 years all debts were forgiven and prisoners set free. As such, Holy Years are particularly blessed times for reviving your relationship with God. To make it possible for everyone to take advantage of this opportunity, we have sought to lower the price, offer scholarships, and get the word out about the Holy Year!

Why did you open registration on 28 October?
That date is the Feast of Ss Simon and Jude. St Jude is the patron of lost causes, making him, in fact, a patron of immense hope. The 2025 Holy Year has a theme of hope. One of the aims of the Diploma is to grant each student an opportunity to deepen their hope in the Lord and to become a light of hope in our society. Always be "prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15).

Where do I register?
You can register on Eventbrite. Click here.

I have more questions!
Please get in touch for a chat. Email srmiriamruth@staned.org.uk

Register for our Day for Catechists (Sat 9 March)

In this Year of Prayer, we invite parish catechists to join us for a day of workshops, witness and inspiration.

Our Day for Catechists is on Saturday 9 March, 10:30am-3:30pm at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Register here.

The role you play in your parish is crucial - from running programmes like RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) and Children's Liturgy, supporting your priest, and answering questions on faith issues from parishioners.

Renewal

This day will renew your vocation as a catechist, and provide inspiration and tips while letting you meet and chat with fellow catechists from across the Archdiocese. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions in a friendly environment.

In workshops and talks, we will highlight baptismal and sacramental preparation, children's liturgy, lesson plans and resources...and lots more!

There will be a bookstand featuring titles for children & adults.

You don't need to have a catechetical role in your parish to come to this event - if you have an interest in Catechetics and want to find you are warmly welcome!

The Gillis Centre is located at 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. There is free parking onsite (including an overspill car park at the back of St Margaret's Chapel).

The day is run by the Catechetics Commission of the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh and we look forward to welcoming you.

Please note: registration for this event closes at 2:00pm on Thursday 7 March.

Schedule*

10:00am Signing in/coffees & teas

10:30am Welcome & Introduction

11.10am Inspirational talk from guest speaker

11.45am Workshops

12.15pm Safeguarding

12.30pm Lunch (provided - sandwiches and fruit)*

1.15pm Workshops

2:00pm Witness

2.15pm Holy Mass

3:00pm Finish

*Times subject to change.

**Please bring a packed lunch if you have food intolerances and or allergies.

Day for Catechists, Saturday 9 March, 10:30am-3:30pm at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Free event. Register here.

Diploma in Catechetics: Register now

The Diploma in Catechetics is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the Catholic faith in 2024.

Get ready to explore the richness and depth of the Catholic spiritual tradition with course leader Sr Miriam Ruth Ryan RSM.

What students say

Here is feedback from some of our current 2023 students:

Incredibly informative. I have developed a much greater understanding of sacred scripture and liturgy, which has enhanced my faith and prayer life. Thank you! - Jimmy Adamson, Coaltown of Wemyss

This course has been a joyous learning experience about my Catholic Faith. - Hazel Kay, Kingussie

The Diploma has deepened my knowledge and has made His Holy presence alive and real. I wish this course was mandatory for all Catholics. - Gretta Bourke, Ireland

Read further testimonies from former students here.

Course leader

Sr Miriam Ruth Ryan is a Religious Sister of Mercy, of Alma, Michigan. She is based at St Margaret's Convent in Ravelston, Edinburgh. She is the Catechetics Advisor for the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh. She is joined by a selection of clergy and lay people who will deliver the course each week

FAQs

How much doe the course cost? The cost is £200. However, register now for a 20% discount (pay £160). If cost is preventing you from registering, don't worry! Contact Sr Miriam Ruth for a confidential chat - we want everyone to have access to the course. Bursaries available. srmiriam.ruth@staned.org.uk 

Do I have to sit an exam? No. Each module concludes with a one-to-one session with one of the course leaders. In the meeting, you’ll have a chance to talk about what you’ve learnt and ask any questions that weren’t answered in the lecture.

Do I need to buy course material? No. We do recommend you have a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which is available free online.

Do I need to be Catholic to take part? No, all are welcome to explore the Catholic faith in this course.

Is the course difficult? Like any course, some elements will be challenging. That's why we have gathered a range of speakers who are experienced in simplifying difficult concepts in an engaging way. Plus, each session has a Q&A section where you can ask the speaker to clarify any concepts.

Can I take part if I'm not in the Archdiocese? Everyone is welcome to take part regardless of where you are based.

What if I miss a session? No problem, each session is recorded and available online the following day allowing you to catch up.

How do I log in to sessions? The course leader Sr Miriam Ruth will send you a link by email each week that you simply click to enter the session.

I've never used Zoom! Don't worry, we can help set you up. It's a simple process.

How do I register? Register on Eventbrite here.

I have more questions! Please get in touch for a chat. Email srmiriam.ruth@staned.org.uk 

 

WATCH: Prepare for Pentecost (Week 2)

Watch Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas in our second talk on Preparing for Pentacost. See below or on YouTube.

The first session of the six-week talk series is available to watch below or on YouTube.

About

St Thomas Aquinas would often say that we can't love what we don't know.

Follow his lead in this six-week online course to explore the Holy Trinity.

Preparing for Pentecost (Exploring Pentecost & The Holy Trinity with St Thomas Aquinas) will help you get to know God better, allowing us to love Him and live in His presence day by day.

Each one-hour Zoom session will help you prepare for two feasts at the end of Eastertide: Pentecost (28 May) and The Most Holy Trinity (4 June).

Sessions are hosted by Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM, our catechetics advisor, and Fr Kevin Douglas, parish priest of St Theresa’s, St Philip’s and St Andrew’s (West Lothian).

It is designed for people without a philosophical or theological background, but who want to know the Catholic faith better or who are just interested in what Christians believe and why.

Registration

Please click here to register for the six week course. You will be sent a link to join each week (and helpful reminders)

Dates

Format

Preparing for Pentecost: Exploring Pentecost & The Holy Trinity with St Thomas Aquinas is organised by the Catechetics Commission of the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh.

Register now for the Diploma in Catechetics 2023!

Register now for our Diploma in Catechetics which begins in January!

It's a great way to explore the richness and depth of the Catholic spiritual tradition with course leader Sr Anna Marie.

She and a range of guest speakers bring you weekly lectures, with guided reading, conversations, retreats, and supplementary courses available.

Need to know

FAQs

Do I have to sit an exam? No. Each module concludes with a one-to-one session with one of the course leaders. In the meeting, you’ll have a chance to talk about what you’ve learnt and ask any questions that weren’t answered in the lecture.

Do I need to buy course material? No. We do recommend you have a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which is available free online.

Do I need to be Catholic to take part? No, all are welcome to explore the Catholic faith in this course.

Is the course difficult? Like any course, some elements will be challenging. That's why we have gathered a range of speakers who are experienced in simplifying difficult concepts in an engaging way with. Plus, each session has a Q&A session where you can ask the speaker to to clarify anything you might still have questions about.

Can I take part if I'm not in the Archdiocese? Everyone is welcome to take part regardless of where you are based.

What if I miss a session? No problem, each session is recorded and available online the following day allowing you to catch up.

How do I log in to sessions? Sr Anna Marie will send you a link by email each week that you simply click to enter the session.

I've never used Zoom! Don't worry, we can help set you up. It's a simple process.

How do I register? Register on Eventbrite here.

I have more questions! Please get in touch for a chat. Email sranna.marie@staned.org.uk

Testimonials

Here's what previous students have said about the course:

“A life changer, I learnt so much and it really deepened my faith. I can’t recommend it enough.” - Margo Saliba, Edinburgh

“The diploma in catechetics is invaluable, there is no one who I wouldn't recommend this course to!” - Sarah Schuler, Edinburgh

“I recommend this course to anyone who will listen; it has given me a thirst for knowledge and, hopefully, has made me a better person.” - Peter McCaffery, Cowdenbeath

“Our faith explored. Go deeper with this highly enjoyable course.” - Janice Mary Evans, Falkirk.

“The Diploma in Catechetics really stirred up my faith and has given me a thirst to delve even deeper into the riches of our beautiful catechism.” - Brenda Drumm, Ireland

“Inspirational. You won’t want to miss a session. Please give it a go - it’s a course for everyone.” - Liz Brown, Edinburgh

“As a ‘cradle Catholic,’ this diploma helped to enable me to develop my Faith and deepen my understanding of scripture.” - Gwen Gemmell, Dunfermline

“So interesting that I wish there was a 2nd year of study. I can’t thank the presenters enough for their sessions. I urge all interested Catholics to give this a go.” - Ian Neilson, Glasgow

“Really enjoyed this and would recommend it to anyone. The classes are made very welcoming and inspiring, (even on zoom) by the wonderful speakers. The family of God has a whole new meaning now. Thank you to all involved.” - Anne Collins, Kilsyth

"The speakers' commitment, knowledge and delivery of the Catholic faith has been illuminating and transformative throughout a period that has challenged many of us. Sincere thanks." - Anne Marie Docherty, Linlithgow.

Register for the Diploma in Catechetics 2022 here.

 

Register now for the Diploma in Catechetics 2022!

Get ready to explore the richness of the Catholic faith and help spread the Good News of Jesus Christ with our Diploma in Catechetics 2022.

It's easy to take part. Lectures will be delivered each Thursday evening by Zoom - so you can learn in the comfort of your own home!

The Diploma in Catechetics lasts one year, begins on January 2022 and costs £200. Registration is now open at bit.ly/DiplomaCatechetics2022

When does it start?

What does it involve?

Who's running the course?

What did last year's students say about it?

Read more testimonials here.

Does it cost money?

Sign me up!

All Catholics are invited to take part, we also warmly welcome those who are not Catholic but who want to find out about the Catholic faith. The Archdiocese especially asks those who are involved in the catechetical work of the Church - children’s liturgists, RCIA team members, teachers, youth group leaders etc - to register.

Share the course information in your parish

WATCH: Fire & Water - The Power of the Sacraments

Rediscover the power of the Sacraments of Confirmation and Baptism in this video titled Fire & Water, from Sr Anna Marie McGuan, our Catechetics advisor. Watch on our YouTube channel here or below.

WATCH: How studying Catechetics can help YOU

Watch our webinar to find out how our Diploma in Catechetics can benefit YOU.

Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM warmly invites you to register for the year-long course and said: "The Diploma is about enriching our life of faith. Every Catholic has an obligation to study the Faith so it's is an accessible and convenient way to do that."

This quick video covers your FAQs

This video is a recording of the full Webinar

 

Register for the Diploma here.
Read more about it here.

Announcement: Launch of our Diploma in Catechetics

We invite YOU to deepen your Catholic Faith and help spread the Good News of Jesus Christ with our Diploma in Catechetics.

It's easy to take part. Lectures will be delivered each Thursday evening in a 45 min Zoom session - so you can learn in the comfort of your own home!

Find out more on Tuesday 24 Nov at 7:30pm in a 30 min webinar with course leader Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM and our comms man Matthew Meade. No registration required. Join us on the night using this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81865730471

In a letter to parishioners, Archbishop Cushley said: "This is an excellent initiative. It’s open to anyone who wants to learn more about their faith and to deepen their understanding of Catholic theology. I sincerely encourage any of you who want to deepen your faith to think seriously about taking up this opportunity."

When does it start?

What does it involve?

Who's running the course?

Does it cost money?

Sign me up!

All Catholics are invited to take part. The Archdiocese especially asks those who are involved in the catechetical work of the Church -  children’s liturgists, RCIA team members, teachers, youth group leaders etc - to register.

 

Share the course information in your parish