“The Church is the communion of those called by Christ to be his disciples.”—Coworkers in the Vineyard of the Lord

“The witness of catechists and teachers of the faith also creates and fosters a culture of witness. Catechists, together with the pastors of the Church, are entrusted with the duties of teaching the faith, overseeing sacramental preparation, supporting the formation of consciences, and developing a love of prayer in those they catechize. Catechists, who are dedicated disciples of Christ, provide a powerful witness to the Gospel.”
— United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, "Disciples Called to Witness"

The Common Formation Program (CFP) is a four-year program that prepares candidates for Lay Ecclesial Ministry (LEM) Certification or for Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate.
Sessions address four areas of formation: Human, Spiritual, Intellectual, and Pastoral. Presented by local experts in Catholic theology, practice, and experience, CFP meets the requirements of Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord: A Resource for Guiding the Development of Lay Ecclesial Ministry and the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States.

Click the link below to learn more about the Diocese of Tucson: Common Formation Program (CFP).

Common Formation Program

Parish Ministry Certification has three distinct levels (Level 1 Certification, Level 2 Certification, and Lay Ecclesial Ministry Certification) and is intended to form parish catechists, ministry leaders, and all committed Catholics, in the following areas: Catechetical Methods and Human Development, the Creed, Sacraments and Liturgy, Scripture, and Spirituality. All those who teach our faith, especially parish catechists, should enter into a journey of ongoing faith formation resulting in at least Level 1 Certification.

Click the link below to learn more abou the Diocese of Tucson: Parish Ministry Certification.

Parish Ministry Certification