He explained, “A Catechist is, by definition, an evangelizer. This handbook provides tools and strategies for engaging different groups – from intellectuals to those new to the faith.”
Fr. Udo told ACI Africa that based on his findings, there is a lack of consistent faith formation among Catholics.
“I asked parishioners when they last attended catechism classes. The common responses were during preparation for Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, or marriage. This means that someone who got married 15 years ago might never have revisited catechism classes since. This realization struck me deeply and highlighted how the Church is falling behind in grassroots faith education,” Fr. Udo recounted.
The Parish Priest of Assumption Parish of the Diocese of Ikot Ekpene, who doubles as the treasurer of SIGNIS Nigeria underscored the importance of catechetical formation for the Laity.
“While Priests receive robust theological training, the majority of lay faithful who constitute about 80 to 90 percent of the Church often lack proper catechetical formation. This gap inspired me to create a book not just to teach Church doctrines but to guide teachers on how to effectively teach the faith,” he said.
He went on to highlight some of the challenges Catechists face in their services as evangelizers.
“Societal and cultural changes pose significant challenges. In places like Nigeria, where secularism and consumerism are growing, Catechists must help individuals evaluate these changes in light of faith, discerning what fosters blessings and what threatens their spiritual lives,” Fr. Udo said.
He continued, “We’re also dealing with religious apathy and the fragmentation of family and community life. Many families no longer prioritize religious education. Issues like divorce, single parenting, busy lifestyles, and emerging moral challenges – such as same-sex unions and shifting values – compound the problem.”
“These changes create a fragmented environment where Catechists struggle to cultivate religious education that traditionally relied on family support,” the 57-year-old Catholic Priest said.
He also identified “digital media and artificial intelligence (AI)” as possible threats to the evangelization ministry, presenting what he termed “unique challenges” as they “can distort truth and make falsehood appear credible.”
