Core Team Training

The SPRED Core Team consists of three catechists:

Leader Catechist

Parish Chairperson

Activity Catechist

This Core Team takes on extra training to get a deeper understanding of the SPRED mentality and of their distinct leadership roles. Helper Catechists are also encouraged to take the trainings on the Introduction to Special Religious Education, if they wish.  

The purpose of training in SPRED is to provide volunteers a foundation in the method and a feeling of security as catechists enter into new relationships with their SPRED Friends with IDD. 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 workshop introduces the journey of a SPRED session by discussion and hands 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 with developmental disabilities.*

Training is currently available at the Chicago SPRED Center.  Please see the calendar for upcoming dates. Trainings in Milwaukee will be added as they become available.

Helper Catechists must also observe one SPRED session at a model SPRED site.  Observation is currently available in Chicago.  Please see their website for more information.

*Taken from Queen of Angels SPRED site.