Narrative Report on the Catechism Program
Dasol Catholic School – Community Extension Service (CES)
Academic Year 2024–2025
For the academic year 2024–2025, the Community Extension Service (CES) Office of Dasol
Catholic School, under the leadership of its CES Coordinator, proudly reports the successful
implementation of the Student Catechist Program, one of the flagship initiatives of the
school’s outreach and formation efforts. This program, designed in close partnership with the
Parish of Saint Vincent Ferrer and approved by the school chaplain, Rev. Fr. John Paul C.
Miranda, OC, aimed to form, equip, and deploy student Catechists who would bring the
teachings of the Catholic Church into local schools and the wider community.
The program’s success this year was anchored on its clear vision and mission:
The Student Catechist Program envisions students who become complete Christians with a
living faith, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church and committed to sharing
this faith with others. Its mission is to actively teach, live out, and spread the Good News
while participating in the spiritual growth of the school and the community.
Formation and Preparation Phase
The CES office began the school year by conducting a comprehensive formation program for
selected students who volunteered to become Catechists. These student Catechists were not
simply tasked with delivering lessons; they were formed holistically to become witnesses of
the faith. Formation activities included in-depth learning about Catholic doctrine, the
Sacraments, the teachings of the Catechism, and the core values of the Catholic Church.
Moreover, the CES team, in collaboration with the school’s religious formation team and parish
leaders, provided practical training sessions to develop the Catechists’ teaching skills,
confidence, and leadership. The student Catechists were equipped not only with knowledge
but also with teaching resources, lesson materials, and pastoral guidance to prepare them for
the mission ahead. Throughout this phase, emphasis was placed on the students’ personal
spiritual growth, encouraging them to lead prayerful lives, actively participate in the
Sacraments, and serve as good role models for their peers.
Commissioning and Sending Forth
After the formation period, a significant milestone was the commissioning or send-off
ceremony, held at Saint Vincent Ferrer Parish Church. This solemn event, led by Fr. John Paul
Miranda, marked the official blessing and missioning of the student Catechists. In the
presence of the parish community, school leaders, and families, the Catechists pledged their
commitment to serve the Church and share the Good News among the youth. The ceremony
not only highlighted the Catechists’ personal dedication but also publicly affirmed the school
and parish’s shared commitment to catechetical ministry.
Teaching Mission and School Outreach
Once commissioned, the student Catechists began their regular catechetical activities every
Wednesday and Friday. Coordinated carefully by the CES office, these activities included
visiting various schools, teaching catechism classes, and leading spiritual activities for
younger students. The CES Coordinator played a critical role in maintaining communication
and partnerships, especially by liaising with school principals and ensuring that all
catechetical activities were properly endorsed through a formal letter from the Department of
Education (DepEd). This careful coordination ensured that every catechetical session aligned
smoothly with school schedules and respected the needs and context of each school
community.
The student Catechists actively carried out their responsibilities as teachers and leaders,
guiding their fellow students in understanding the faith, learning basic prayers, appreciating
Church teachings, and deepening their love for God. They also modeled Christian values by
their behavior and interactions, serving as living examples of the school’s mission and core
values.
Continuous Formation and Ongoing Support
Throughout the year, the CES office ensured that the Catechists continued to grow in their
roles through ongoing formation and regular feedback sessions. These gatherings served as
opportunities to reflect on experiences, discuss challenges, share insights, and receive
pastoral and instructional guidance. The CES office remained dedicated to ensuring that the
Catechists were never left unsupported, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose
among the young volunteers.
Spiritual Highlights and Sacramental Moments
One of the most significant achievements of the year was the successful organization of First
Holy Communion for the young students reached by the catechetical program. This joyful
celebration marked an important spiritual milestone and was the fruit of the collaborative
efforts of the Catechists, CES office, parish leaders, school staff, and families. Preparing
students for the Sacraments is a cornerstone of catechetical ministry, and the CES office takes
pride in its role in helping students deepen their encounter with Christ through the Eucharist.
Impact and Legacy
Looking back on the academic year, the CES Coordinator reflects with gratitude on the
positive impact made by the Student Catechist Program. The program has not only provided a
structured platform for students to serve as Catechists but has also empowered them to grow
in faith, develop leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to the spiritual life of the school
and the broader community.
The program successfully met its objectives:
✅ Forming steadfast Catechists shaped by the teachings of Christ and the Church
✅ Deepening students’ sacramental lives and fostering personal prayer
✅ Promoting active involvement in parish and school religious activities
✅ Strengthening partnerships between the school, parish, and local community
✅ Inspiring a generation of youth committed to living and spreading the Catholic faith
The CES office extends its heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Fr. John Paul C. Miranda, OC, Sr. Ma.
Nancy P. Bacan, SFIC, the parish team, school principals, DepEd officials, parents, and all those
who supported and contributed to the success of this year’s catechetical mission. Special
thanks are offered to the dedicated student Catechists whose service, energy, and faith made
this ministry truly come alive.
As the CES office looks toward the next school year, it remains committed to sustaining and
expanding the Student Catechist Program, with continuous improvement in formation,
stronger school partnerships, and an even deeper integration of faith and service. With God’s
grace, Dasol Catholic School will continue to nurture young disciples who are ready to bring
the light of Christ into every corner of the community, transforming lives and strengthening
the Church for generations to come.
DOCUMENTATION
CATECHIST FORMATION AND SENDING OFF
CATECHISM IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
