AMERICA/MEXICO - Cardinal Norberto Rivera introduces the “Stable Ministry of the Catechist” in the Archdiocese, convinced that “the activity of the lay faithful is becoming increasingly more necessary and invaluable.”

Mexico City (Agenzia Fides) - On the Solemnity of the Lord’s Ascension, May 4, the Archbishop of Mexico City, Cardinal Norberto Rivera Carrera, introduced “ad experimentum” for five years, the Ministry of the Catechist in his Archdiocese.
In the decree of the institution of this Ministry, the Cardinal pointed out that catechesis has always been a priority concern for his predecessors, especially. And he himself, as Pastor of this flock, is aware that “it is a real and serious responsibility to oversee the catechesis of the faithful, so that their faith may come alive, be expressed and placed in action, through the transmission of doctrine and living a Christian life.”
Thus, “considering that the Diocese has a community of laity with a specific formation and with very admirable experiences, and convinced that the activity of the lay faithful is becoming increasingly more necessary and invaluable, keeping in mind the Apostolic Exhortation of John Paul II ‘Christifideles Laici’ urging them to collaborate with the pastors of the Church,” Cardinal Rivera introduced the “Stable Ministry of the Catechist into the Archdiocese of Mexico.” This ministry should always be carried out in communion with the hierarchy, with the Archbishop, the Bishop, and the parish pastor. Furthermore, “the Christian that has received this ministry must exercise it with total generosity and without expecting recompense, as a service and a responsibility entrusted to them by the Church and not as though it were a right that they deserve to be given...and neither should they assume rights that could lead to considering them as Sacred Ministers.”
During the act of institution, which was celebrated in the Cathedral, the Cardinal recognized the work that hundreds of catechists carry out at the service of the Gospel: “We appreciate the catechetical work that so many of our brothers and sisters in the consecrated life carry out, without which many members of the Church would never meet the Living Christ.” He also mentioned the work carried out by the Catechesis Committee of the Archdiocese of Mexico and recognized the work done by the Sede Sapientiae Institute that celebrates 50 years of service in the area of studies on Sacred Scripture and Theology. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 5/5/2008; righe 28, parole 361)