HELPER CATECHIST TRAINING

The purpose of training in SPRED is to provide volunteers a foundation in the use of symbol in our sessions as well as a feeling of security as catechists enter into new relationships with their SPRED Friends with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Training highlights the importance of environment, pacing, reverence, respect, hospitality, bonding, trust, commitment and openness to the journey. Helper Catechist Training is for the first time catechist or anyone needing a refresher by walking through a SPRED session with only the role of the helper catechist and their SPRED Friend in mind.   

The afternoon introduces the journey of a SPRED session by discussion and hand's on activity.  The day is designed to leave participants strengthened in their understanding of the SPRED method, the SPRED standards and the role of the helper catechist in ensuring quality catechesis with our Friends. 

Helper Catechist Training occurs in fall and spring of each year at Queen of Apostles and the Archdiocesan SPRED Center at 30th and Lowe in Chicago.  St. Francis de Sales in Lake Zurich is a Northwest suburban site that offers training and observation. 
Use the button for online registration above .
Next  HC Training at Queen of Apostles:            
Please note:  Space is limited due to safety and distancing precautions.  Please register early.
Helper Catechist Training
New Dates
Saturday, October 2nd, 2021  
11am to 4pm
​Saturday, April 2nd, 2022
11am to 4pm​ 
​Queen of Apostles Parish Center (one half block south of the school, directly across from Welles Park) 
4412 N. Western Ave.,  2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60625  
Parking is available in the school lot or on the street.

Additional Training Times and Locations

​Archdiocesan SPRED Center
TBA
To register phone: 312-842-1039
Click for Map


Registration is requested to accommodate all participants.
$10 donation covers the cost of training materials and lunch. 

SPRED at Queen of Apostles Parish Center is located near the intersection of Montrose and Western on the north side of Chicago in the Lincoln Square neighborhood.  The Parish Center is located directly across from Welles Park, and within a short walk from public transporation.  (The school and church are separate buildings from the parish center).  Parking is available either on the street or in the school lot on Western and Sunnyside which is one half block north of the Parish Center.