Department of Catechesis

Welcome to the Faith Formation Program of Our Parish!

The Department of Catechesis in our parish plays a central role in nurturing the faith and spiritual growth of our children and youth, guided by the rich traditions and mission of the Syro-Malabar Church. We follow the curriculum and guidelines provided by the Department of Catechesis, Eparchy of Mississauga. This year, our program brings together 200 students, from Junior Kindergarten (JK) to Grade 12, all eager to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith.

We are blessed with a dedicated team of teaching staff and volunteers who selflessly offer their time and energy to nurture the next generation. Motivated by their deep devotion to Christ and commitment to the Syro-Malabar Church, our catechists carry out this mission under the guidance of our vicar, with a true spirit of vocation.

Curriculum

All faith formation activities in our Parish are designed to resonate with the slogan of Syro-Malabar Catechesis: “Communion with Christ and the Church.”

We offer one-hour classes every Sunday, from September through June, specifically designed to engage children from the registered families of our Parish. The Faith Formation Program uses the textbook series and supplementary resources developed by the Syro-Malabar Synodal Commission for Catechesis, covering all grades from Kindergarten to Grade XII.

The Syro-Malabar Synodal Commission for Catechesis also provides a dedicated website, which serves as a valuable tool for enhancing the eparchy‘s faith formation efforts. Additionally, the Department of Catechesis in the Eparchy of Mississauga has an official YouTube channel offering recorded classes for each grade.

Textbook Series – On the Path of Salvation

Supplementary Resources – Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Catholicism series, books on
the Theology of the Body, Docat, and Youcat.

Website – Smart Catechism Program

YouTube Channel – SyroSauga

Other Activities

In addition to the curriculum provided by Syro-Malabar Catechesis, our program incorporates various activities and initiatives organized by the Parish, the Eparchy, pious associations for children, and other ministries within our community.

These opportunities provide a strong foundation in the Catholic faith, fostering spiritual growth and reflecting Gospel values. Our goal is to create a nurturing environment where every child feels supported and encouraged in their faith journey.

At the heart of our vision is the desire to build a vibrant faith community where children and youth not only embrace their faith but also live as witnesses of Christ in their daily lives. We remain deeply committed to fostering their spiritual growth and inspiring them to actively contribute to the mission of the Syro-Malabar Church.

Pious Associations for Children

We offer three vibrant Pious Associations for nurturing the spiritual growth of our young members.

Mission – Conducting age appropriate spiritually oriented ministries for children in the Eparchy of Mississauga, we aim to train Catholic children in proclaiming the Word of God and teachings of the Church through evangelization, works of piety and of charity.

● Jesus Kids – Grades JK & SK

○ Patron – Infant Jesus

● Holy Childhood – Grades 1 – 4

○ Patron – Guardian Angel
○ Motto – Children Helping Children

● Cherupushpam Mission League (CML) – Grades 5 – 12

○ Patron – St. Therese of Lisieux ○ Slogan – Love, Suffering, Service, and Sacrifice
○ Motto -‘Thy sons, O India, will be the ministers of thy salvation’ ( Pope Leo X111).

Registrations

Registration is mandatory for all new and returning students. For any queries related to catechism or new registrations, please contact:

● Parish Vicar: pastor@syromalabarottawa.ca
● Department of Catechesis: syromalabarottawa.catechism@gmail.com

Contacts for 2024/2025

● Parish Vicar – Fr. George Joseph Thanninilkumthadathil
● Principal – Tresa Varghese Rose
● Vice Principal – Jensy Edakalathur Johny
● Safe Environment Coordinator – Priya Mary Abraham
● Email (catechism) – syromalabarottawa.catechism@gmail.com