A disciple, Mr. Webster tells us, is one who "accepts and assists in spreading the beliefs of another." In his ministry, Jesus called disciples to help him while he was here and to continue his work, his mission to the end of time. If Webster is correct, a religious educator is surely a disciple of Christ. Catechists and teachers accept the beliefs of Christ. They assist in spreading the beliefs of Christianity. In fact, I’ve known such men and women who are among the most devoted and committed disciples one could ever meet.

The Gospel of St. Mark shows us clearly three qualities of discipleship. The first hallmark is that discipleship is a gift. In the stories of the first disciples we see that they did not seek Jesus out and volunteer. Jesus called his disciples. While a stranger will surely not take you away from your fishing nets, you clearly have a call. That call comes from your desire, from reflection, and from the assessment that you have what is needed to be an effective religious educator.

Another hallmark of discipleship is that it is a privilege. Discipleship is something to be honored, to be cherished and valued, not taken for granted. The story of our faith-life must be one of growth and an ongoing deepening process or it will begin to wither. Caring for one’s spiritual life and continuing to grow in catechetical skills honors the privilege of discipleship.

Finally, St. Mark’s Gospel shows that disciples follow Jesus. This is such a simple statement but it is also profound and life changing. Each person has a lifetime to figure out just how he or she will be a follower of Christ. Different moments in life’s journey, different circumstances, and stages of life bring their own opportunities and challenges about how to be a disciple in this time and place. Precisely how one is a follower of Christ is unique to each person.

What is constant, however, is that however you choose to live your discipleship today, you "accept and assist in spreading the beliefs of another" and that other is Christ.

Jean Marie Hiesberger