For Many - For All: Elements for CatechesisThe city of Cuenca hosted a national meeting of catechists from February 12-16, 2025, which brought together more than 1,640 participants from all over Ecuador. This event, which is held every two years, provided a vital space for reflection, exchange and formation, with the objective of strengthening the transmission of the faith in a world in constant change.
A central challenge: Transmitting the faith in today's world
The meeting highlighted the challenge of transmitting the faith in today's context, marked by secularization, cultural diversity and rapid technological evolution. Emphasis was placed on the need to find new ways to connect with the new generations and communicate the message of Jesus in a relevant and meaningful way.
As expressed by Monsignor Alfredo EspinozaArchbishop of QuitoDuring the Eucharist: "You are 'teachers of the faith' who not only teach the doctrine, but who live it and witness it with your own life. Be creative in your mission, always update yourselves, never stop learning, above all, be passionate'".
Exchange of experiences and training: pillars of the meeting
The catechists had the opportunity to share their experiences, challenges and successes in the work of transmitting the faith, exchanging best practices and reflecting on how to improve faith initiation.
Formation was also a key component. Lectures addressed topics such as methodology, pedagogy, the Synod and the Eucharist, providing catechists with tools to strengthen their work.
Catechesis: a dialogue with local reality
The importance of catechesis being incarnated in the reality of each people was emphasized, recognizing the cultural diversity and expressions of faith of each community in Ecuador.
The meeting in Cuenca was a call for the renewal of catechesis in Ecuador, urging the Church to adapt and find new ways to communicate the Gospel. Monsignor Marcos Perez, Archbishop of Cuenca, in the opening Eucharist, said that "catechists are missionaries who want to change the world". Catechists, as agents of evangelization, have a fundamental role in this task.
The experience left a deep impression on the participants, who returned to their communities with new ideas and motivation to continue the work of transmitting the faith. The next meeting, in Riobamba in 2027, will continue this path of catechetical renewal.
