CATECHETICAL WORKSHOP

Cultivating Encounter with Christ for Every Student, Diocese of Austin, Spring 2026

Name: Cultivating Encounter with Christ for Every Student, Diocese of Austin, Spring 2026
Start: 2026-05-28T09:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-05-28T15:00:00-05:00
Location: St. Louis King of France

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St. Louis King of France

7601 Burnet Rd
Austin, TX 78757 United States

May 28, 2026

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Workshop Overview

Because God has already revealed his love fully in Jesus Christ, the heart of catechesis is not about making the faith “accessible,” but about clearing away the obstacles that can get in the way of a real encounter with Him. The teachings of the Church flow from the simple and radiant truth of who Christ is. This Workshop encourages teachers to move toward confidently and joyfully handing on the fullness of the faith in a way that leads to wonder, worship, and conversion in a way that is inclusive to all learners.

This Workshop blends scholar presentations with interactive pedagogical sessions, giving you a chance to explore content with a respected scholar, as well as explore and simulate practical teaching strategies with ready-to-use classroom materials. Share best practices and enjoy catered breakfast and lunch with your fellow Diocese of Austin teachers.

Schedule

9:00-9:30am

Breakfast and Check-In
9:30-9:45am

Program Introduction
9:45-10:15am

Removing Barriers with Music and Art

Music and art possess a unique capacity to speak to the human heart across cultures and generations. Through intentional reflection on a range of sacred musical works and sacred art, students are invited to encounter and internalize the doctrines and enduring truths of the Catholic faith.
10:15-11:00am

Catechesis for Persons with Disabilities Part 1

Enjoy the first presentation by Sr. Johanna, followed by Q & A.
11:00-11:15am

Break
11:15-12:00pm

Removing Barriers with Kinesthetic Learning

Our faith is alive and incarnational. Help students connect with the beauty of our faith through learning that incorporates the senses.
12:00-12:45pm

Holy Mass
12:45-1:30pm

Lunch
1:30-2:15pm

Catechesis for Persons with Disabilities Part 2

Enjoy the second presentation by Sr. Johanna, followed by Q & A.
2:15-2:50pm

Reflecting on the Imago Dei

Conclude the day in prayer, reflecting on the beautiful truth that every child – including those with disabilities – is created in the image and likeness of God.
2:50-3:00pm

Additional Resources, Evaluation

Join us, and you'll receive…

Catechetical Formation

Engaging sessions by a catechetical scholar provide background knowledge.

Practical Application

Research-based teaching strategies, and concrete tools to apply this knowledge in the classroom.

Spiritual Formation

You'll explore your vocation as a teacher, and your calling as a witness to Christ.

Ready-to-Use Materials

Receive a free supplemental guide featuring 10-12 lessons with activities and sacred art.

Presenters

Jose Gonzalez

Jose Gonzalez joined the team at Sophia Teachers in 2014 after more than 10 years as a Catholic high school teacher. In addition to teaching, Jose has experience working in parish and diocesan ministry. Jose has been leading Workshops in over 70 dioceses for more than 11 years, and contributes regularly to our teacher’s guides and digital instructional resources. He has a BA in theology with a concentration in religious education from Franciscan University of Steubenville, and an MA in evangelization and catechesis from the Augustine Institute. Jose and his wife, Mary Beth, have five children.

Sr. M. Johanna Paruch, FSMG, Ph. D.

Sr. M. Johanna Paruch, FSGM, is Emeritus Professor of Theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville. A member of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, she holds a BA in theology and elementary education from St. Louis University an MA in catechetics from the Angelicum, the Pontifical Catechetical Diploma as well as an undergraduate degree in deaf communication. She earned her doctorate at Maryvale Institute, Birmingham, England. She has been involved in catechetics in all its forms, at every level, including 15 years as a Catholic school teacher. She was a professor of theology and catechetics at Franciscan University at Steubenville from 1999 to 2025. Sr. Johanna presently serves as a consultant for catechetics in parishes and Catholic schools, and travels throughout the country presenting workshops for catechist training, catechesis for persons with disabilities, retreats and parish missions. She is also engaged in deaf ministry, Franciscan spirituality, and research on the role of Catholic sisters in the American Civil War.

Cultivating Encounter with Christ for Every Student, Diocese of Austin, Spring 2026

Workshop Overview

Schedule

Jose Gonzalez

Sr. M. Johanna Paruch, FSMG, Ph. D.

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Cultivating Encounter with Christ for Every Student, Diocese of Austin, Spring 2026

Workshop Overview

Schedule

Join us, and you'll receive…

Catechetical Formation

Practical Application

Spiritual Formation

Ready-to-Use Materials

Presenters

Jose Gonzalez

Sr. M. Johanna Paruch, FSMG, Ph. D.