Gerardine McInerney, director of religious education at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Carmichael, recently received the “Excellence in the Ministry of Catechesis—Catechetical Leader of the Year” award.

The recognition is given annually by the diocesan department of Catholic Faith Formation to a director or coordinator of religious education through a nomination process by pastors and other catechetical leaders. The criteria include that the recipient be a pioneer in the field of catechesis, implements a vision of lifelong faith formation, mentors new coordinators of religious education and is involved with the deanery and diocese.

Gerardine McInerney

Two years ago, when Bishop William K. Weigand asked pastors and catechetical leaders to prepare and offer the sacrament of reconciliation prior to the reception of first Communion, McInerney prepared more than 250 children in second, third and fourth grade for this celebration of the mercy of God, according to Bob Meaney, director of Catholic Faith Formation.

“Because in preparing children and youth for sacraments parent involvement is essential, there were numerous parent meetings and opportunities for parents to enrich their own faith life,” he said. “It is no wonder that one of her neighboring catechetical leaders said that Gerardine is considered to have the most effective and interesting parent meetings in the region.”

Father Leo McAllister, pastor of Our Lady of the Assumption, in his nomination form said, “Gerardine is one of the most highly organized, creative and hard working people I know.” He also noted that the adult faith formation program co-sponsored with St. Ignatius Parish offers “timely, well-prepared and faith-filled programs under her leadership.”

A new coordinator of religious education noted that when she started at her parish four years earlier, McInerney was her mentor and opened her office and heart to her. “It was because of Gerardine’s guidance and concern for me that I was able to survive my first year and begin to thrive ever since.” She concluded her nomination by stating that McInerney “is a most faith-filled woman of God.”

Copyright © 2001 Diocese of Sacramento - All Rights Reserved

[Catholic Herald - Cover Page]