Catechist & Certificate Requirements

“Every Catholic institution is a place to encounter the Living God, who in Jesus Christ, reveals His transforming love and truth” (Pope Benedict XVI Address to Catholic Educators, April 17, 2008, Washington DC, par 2). Drawing from inspiration given by Pope Benedict XVI, Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston aim to form disciples who transform the world. 

The Catholic Schools Office maintains formation standards for school-based catechists, in tandem with the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, and offers certificates for those who meet requirements.  

In addition, “A religion teacher must be a practicing Catholic in good standing” (TCCB ED, p IV-48). “150 clock hours, as required by TCCB ED and any additional hours required by the (arch)diocese” (TCCB ED, p IV-48). As indicated below, the catechist formation requirements for all archdiocesan school employees are based on the specific employment position that they are hired for.

After employees receive their initial certificate, all school employees will have three (3) years to complete the renewal requirements. Renewal requirements consist of thirty (30) hours of theology, methodology, and spiritual formation every three years to keep the certificate updated per Archdiocesan policy.  

*Nurses will need to complete Human Sexuality Catechesis (3 hrs) if they are teaching Human Sexuality or Puberty 

If you have any questions, please reach out to the religion coordinator at your campus.

*CLICK HERE for directions on how to submit External Trainings into Capernaum.  

TO RECEIVE YOUR CERTIFICATE: 

1. The entire application must be completed to process your request.  
2. Download your Capernaum transcript. The transcript must have all completed courses as indicated on your application. 
   • To locate & print your Capernaum transcripts follow these DIRECTIONS
3. Email all documents to Maribel Mendoza-Rojas at [email protected]

Course requirements for *school administration (principals & assistant principals), religion teachers, Catholic Schools Office employees

Must be completed within *5 years/3 years from date of hire

Course requirements for full-time, Catholic professionals and counselors not teaching religion

Must be completed within 5 years from date of hire

Course requirements for part-time, Catholic professionals not teaching religion

Must be completed within 5 years from date of hire

Course requirements for full-time, non-Catholic professionals and counselors

Must be completed within 5 years from date of hire

Course requirements for part-time, non-Catholic professionals

Must be completed within 5 years from date of hire