MEET CATECHIST KRISTI KVAAL: “You Feel as If You’re Making a Difference”

While 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 in today’s world, they are exposed to so much. I think it’s important now more than ever that today’s youth have a good, strong, moral background to help them navigate adulthood.”

In addition to teaching catechesis and assisting with the St. James youth group, Kristi and her husband serve in many other ways around the parish.

“I took over as kitchen chairperson for our Fall Festival in 1996,” she says. “I do the worklist and help coordinate the food. It’s always a great day in our parish where everyone comes together. Our parish began doing the dinner in 1957 to help fund our new church, and it’s still going strong. My husband and I are also currently serving as chairpersons for our work group.”

Anyone who is interested in serving as a catechist, whether full-time or as a substitute, may contact Ann Voller at Areaffcoordinator@holyfamilyarea. org. Ann also takes donations for Youth Group meals, which are greatly appreciated. Summer Vacation Bible School is coming up and offers another great way to get involved.

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.