By KATIE BORKOWSKI
katieb@catholicglobe.org
It is that time again for the Diocese of Sioux City to look for teachers for the Totus Tuus summer program.
Kara Kardell, assistant director of youth and young adult ministry, explained the diocese is seeking a total of 8-12 teachers – four to six men and four to six women.
The applicants should be graduating high school seniors or high school graduates. Accepting applications from graduating high school seniors is new this year, noted Kardell.
“We recognize that our diocese is full of wonderfully passionate youth who would make amazing teachers,” she said. “We would love to invest in them. Graduating seniors are encouraged to use this summer job opportunity to grow stronger in their faith and love of God before heading to college.”
Qualified applicants will be confirmed, practicing Catholics and have a working knowledge of the Catholic faith. Applicants should also possess a desire to work with youth.
The chosen teachers will attend the period of training, which begins the week of May 31, 2018. The teachers will also act as camp counselors at Camp CAYOCA.
“Totus Tuus is a great program,” said Fred Shellabarger, director of evangelization, catechesis and family life. “It’s an opportunity for the teachers and kids alike to encounter the love of Christ and grow in their relationship with him.”
Parish program
There are currently eight parishes pre-registered to host Totus Tuus during the summer of 2018. The dates of the program are June 16-22, June 23-29, July 7-13, July 14-20, July 21-27 and July 28- Aug.3.
According to Kardell, the diocese will accept more registrations.
This year the program will focus on the Apostles Creed and the Luminous Mysteries of the rosary. Each day there are two sessions – first session is for children in first through sixth grade and the second (evening session) is for students in 7th through 12th grade.
“Totus Tuus is an amazing program that combines catechetical teaching with sacramental opportunities, authentic friendship and fun activities and skits,” said Kardell. “This program allows parishes to focus on one area of Catholic teaching each summer, and they are encouraged to continue building on that throughout the year.”
Shellabarger acknowledged one of his favorite saints is St. John Bosco, who “very much emphasized the importance of learning the faith in a fun and engaging environment.”
“He used skits, played games, had fun with the kids,” said Shellabarger. “It is important that kids learn that living the Catholic faith, having fun and experiencing the joy of the Gospel are all compatible, essential and authentic. What better time to do that than over the summer?”
Deadlines
The deadline for teacher applications is Feb. 9. Anyone interested in applying can fill out the online application form found at https://scdiocese.org/totus-tuus/.
Forms for parishes to register may be found at https://scdiocese.org/totus-tuus/. All forms and the initial deposit must be turned in no later than Jan. 31.
