MEET CATECHIST KRISTI KVAAL “You Feel as If You’re Making a Difference”
Kristi and Jon Kavaal in the center with their family. Kristi has served as a catechist for more than 25 years. She has enjoyed seeing the children grow and learn in their faith journeys over the years.
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hile teaching religion, Kristi Kvaal found she was involved with her children’s formation in a special way. “When they were young, we talked about Bible stories and watched videos together in class,” Kristi says. “As they grew, it gave me an avenue to discuss social issues with them and what the church teaches regarding those issues. It also gave them encouragement to be involved in the church in areas where they could volunteer such as serving Mass, helping with the preschool class, and getting involved with the Christmas programs.” Kristi has been helping out as a catechist for about 25 years. She began serving when her eldest son was in elementary school. “I got involved because I had older sisters who taught and there was a need for catechists,” she says.
“Being raised Catholic, I knew I wanted to raise my children within the teachings of the Church, and I felt I needed to take an active role in their Catholic upbringing. I wanted them to know that my faith was important to me.” Teaching the children has also led to Kristi learning more about the curriculum and ultimately, her faith. She has taught different grades throughout the years and enjoys talking with the kids about Catholicism, seeing them learn as they grow up. “I think the most rewarding part of teaching has been when the students really take an interest in the topic, and you feel as if you’re making a difference,” Kristi says. “At the end of the class, you hope that whatever you’ve taught them will have a positive impact on their lives and that they’ll take with them what they’ve learned. Kids absorb so much, both good and bad, and continued on back cover
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