Evangelization & Catechesis > Catechetical Certification
The Diocese of Baton Rouge offers Catechetical Certification to parish and school catechists. Please see the information below and watch the relevant video to learn about catechetical certification through the Ministry and Theology Program. On this page, you will find information about Catechetical Certification in the Parish and for School Personnel.
Learn More About MAT Classes“Laity who minister in the name of the Church within the Diocese of Baton Rouge are expected to aquire whatever theological and practical formation is necessary for the roles(s) undertaken” – from Pagella and Policies Diocese of Baton Rouge 2009
Basic Certification is required for parish elementary catechists and parish high school catechists. Catechists may acquire basic certification by completing the basic certification courses (MAT 1).
Individual parishes may require certification of parish ministers and catechists in various roles. This level of certification consists of eight, ten hour courses.
It is recommended that catechists acquire twenty clock hours, taking no longer than four years to complete the process for basic certification.
Parish Ministry at this time doesn’t require Intermediate Certification; but individuals are encouraged to move beyond the basic certification.
One may acquire Intermediate Certification by completing 80 hours of advanced study in MAT II or Intermediate courses.
One may acquire advanced certification by completing an undergraduate degree from a Catholic University with a minimum of 20 hours of courses that align with the basic course requirements: Church History, Christology, Creed/Doctrine, Morality, Scripture, Spirituality, Sacraments, Evangelization/Catechesis/Mission.
Professional Certification is required for Parish Directors of Religious Education (DRE). One may acquire professional status by acquiring a Master’s degree in Theology or related field from a Catholic college, seminary, or university.
Those who offer education in Catholic Sexual Morality or participate in discussion in youth ministry or parish school of religion classrooms are required to be specifically certified in this area of expertise. Individuals must be certified through the Diocesan Catholic Sexuality Morality course.
Participation in the Diocesan Certification Program is an opportunity for growth in one’s own faith and to deepen one’s commitment to the mission of the Catholic School.
Basic Certification is required for parish elementary catechists and parish high school catechists. Catechists may acquire basic certification by completing the basic certification courses (MAT 1).
Individual parishes may require certification of parish ministers and catechists in various roles. This level of certification consists of eight, ten hour courses.
It is recommended that catechists acquire twenty clock hours, taking no longer than four years to complete the process for basic certification.
Parish Ministry at this time doesn’t require Intermediate Certification; but individuals are encouraged to move beyond the basic certification.
One may acquire Intermediate Certification by completing 80 hours of advanced study in MAT II or Intermediate courses.
One may acquire advanced certification by completing an undergraduate degree from a Catholic University with a minimum of 20 hours of courses that align with the basic course requirements: Church History, Christology, Creed/Doctrine, Morality, Scripture, Spirituality, Sacraments, Evangelization/Catechesis/Mission.
Professional Certification is required for Parish Directors of Religious Education (DRE). One may acquire professional status by acquiring a Master’s degree in Theology or related field from a Catholic college, seminary, or university.
Those who offer education in Catholic Sexual Morality or participate in discussion in youth ministry or parish school of religion classrooms are required to be specifically certified in this area of expertise. Individuals must be certified through the Diocesan Catholic Sexuality Morality course.