Office of Religious Education Library and Media Resources | Contact Us Mission Statement The Office of Religious Education of the Diocese of Youngstown is committed to catechesis, a ministry of the Word essential in the process of evangelization, which matures initial conversion into a living, conscious, and fruitful confession of faith. The principal goal is the catechesis of adults, the primary form of catechesis to which all other forms are oriented. This catechesis is a lifelong process of formation in faith, hope and charity that shapes the mind, touches the heart, and leads persons to embrace Christ fully and completely. The Office strives primarily to enable adults to fulfill their responsibility and privilege to share this faith with others. The General Directory for Catechesis calls every diocesan office of catechesis to the following principle competencies: Analyze and identify the real needs of the diocese as far as catechetical practices are concerned. Develop a plan of action, set clear objectives, propose definite suggestions, and show concrete results. Promote the formation of the catechist. Elaborate the necessary instruments for catechesis for adults, youth, and children; including those resources available through the Office of Religious Education Library. Foster the catechetical character in all diocesan institutions and ministries. Improve personnel and material resources at the diocesan and parish levels. Collaborate with the Office of Worship especially for Christian Initiation ministry and liturgical catechesis. Entrusted with catechesis by the Bishop of Youngstown, the Office of Religious Education ministers, in cooperation with other diocesan offices and with the support of the Diocesan Council for Catechesis, to promote the mission of the Roman Catholic Church. Additional Links: Evangelization/USCCB National Conference of Catechetical Leadership Loyola University Institute for Ministry (LIM) Generations of Faith Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation/University of Dayton