Welcome Letter

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

The Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis is pleased to announce the release of the 2012 Catechetical Sunday materials on the theme of the New Evangelization. Catechetical Sunday, which is celebrated annually on the third Sunday in September in parishes across the United States, falls this year on the weekend of September 16, 2012, the Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time.

The theme for 2012 Catechetical Sunday is "Catechists and Teachers as Agents of the New Evangelization." The Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis has prepared a variety of materials to assist catechists and Catholic school teachers to better understand and embrace Pope Benedict XVI's invitation to be evangelists. The resources will assist parishes in celebrating Catechetical Sunday, not only in September, but also throughout the 2012-2013 year. These materials are provided free of charge. As in past years, USCCB Publishing will sell printed copies of prayer cards, family commitment cards, posters, and certificates in English and Spanish.

May the New Evangelization be a time of deepening our understanding of the faith, and nourishment through our worship and participation in the sacramental life of the Church. May it also be a time of proclamation of the gospel to the world and extending an invitation to return to the Church for our family, friends and neighbors.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend David L. Ricken, Chairman
Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis