Catechist Certification

Thank you for your interest in serving with the religious education programs within the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.  For a detailed description of the AMS Catechist Certification process, please see the AMS Catechist Manual.

Basic Minimum Certification

All volunteer and contract catechists and youth ministry leaders must complete the Basic Minimum Certification.  The Coordinator of Religious Education is expected to complete the Basic Minimum Certification in order to participate in the coursework that is required of all catechists.  The Basic Minimum Certification is valid for 5 years, and is renewable (see Application for Renewal).

Process

      

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    1. Complete a 4-6 week VLCFF course.  First register on the VLCFF web site with a username and password, and then register for and complete a course.  (Please note, 2-3 week seminars do not fulfill the course requirement.) 
    2. Complete child and youth protection training.
    3. Complete a favorable background check (as determined by local base/post policy).
    4. Complete the AMS Catechist Application and have it signed by the priest-chaplain. Mail this application and a copy of a completion certificate for child and youth protection training to:
      Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA
      Attn: Catechist Certification
      P.O. Box 4469
      Washington DC 20017
Upon completion of the Basic Minimum Certification, volunteer and contract catechists and youth ministry leaders are highly encouraged to register for additional courses that will enhance their caetchetical ministry.  Coordinators of Religious Education who have not earned a Masters Degree in Theology or Religious Studies are required to pursue the VLCFF Certificate in Catechesis.

Catechists and Youth Ministry Leaders that have completed Catechist Certification in other diocesan programs may submit a copy of their certificate for review in order to fulfill the introductory minimum requirement for AMS Catechist Certification.

VLCFF Certification

The University of Daton offers several advanced VLCFF Certificates for those who wish to continue to work beyond the Basic Minimum Certification. Please note:

  • Religious Education Coordinators who have not earned a Masters Degree in Theology or Religious Studies are required to pursue the VLCFF Certificate in Catechesis. 
  • Youth Ministry Coordinators who have not earned a Masters Degree in Theology or Religious Studies are required to pursue the VLCFF Certificate in Youth Ministry.

Applications

Additional Information