Forming Effective Disciples

Foundational certification is the initial level of certification in the Forming Effective Disciples program.  It is required for all catechetical leaders, religious education catechists, school catechists, and teachers in Catholic schools.

Foundational certification is achieved by completing specific required modules of the Echoes of Faith Plus (EOF+) DVD series and/or the Echoes 3.0 (E3) online series from RCL Benziger (described below) and participating in a retreat that meets diocesan guidelines. 
 
Echoes of Faith Plus DVD format – Parish facilitators develop a schedule of classes in which groups of participants gather together to watch DVD presentations.  Discussion is guided by a series of questions related to the material just viewed.  Participants must attend all sessions and participate in all discussions to receive credit for a finished module.
 
Echoes 3.0 format – Individuals desiring to complete Foundational level certification online must first complete and submit a Request for Echoes 3.0 Activation Code.  Once received, the Diocese will issue an activation code that will allow the individual to complete online modules at no charge.  Along with the activation code, participants will receive an electronic copy of the Participant Guidelines for Echoes 3.0.
 
NOTES:

• Modules can be completed and applied toward Foundational certification using both formats.  However, an individual module must be completed using just one format.
• Modules must be fully completed to be recorded on a diocesan transcript.
• To receive credit for completed modules, participants may obtain a Foundational application form from their catechetical leader in late spring of each year.
• Individuals have up to three years from the start of their employment or voluntary ministry to complete Foundational certification.