Mareda recognizes Dr. Lisa’s Excellence

in Catechetical Ministry

Mareda, previously called “MAREDA,” because it stood for “Milwaukee Archdiocese Religious Education Directors Association,” honored Dr. Lisa Calderone-Stewart on May 20, 2010 with The Mareda Award for Excellence in Catechetical Ministry.

The group no longer includes only directors of religious education (DREs) but also directors of youth ministry, directors of adult ministry, parish nurses, parish life directors, and other ministry professionals, including those who work from places such as retreat centers and community outreach centers (like the House of Peace).

Before working at the House of Peace, Dr. Lisa was the Associate Director For Early Adolescent Ministry And Youth Leadership Training for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

“Catechetical Ministry” is the ministry of faith formation, otherwise known as “Sunday School,” or religious education; it encompasses all the ways we break open the Word of God to people of all ages. Catechetical ministry is what all those people do who meet with children, youth and/or adults weekly or monthly to help them learn more about the Bible, about Church, about Church history, about prayer, and about following the teachings of Jesus.

“Catechetical Ministry” also describes the ministry of writing books and articles that assist with the breaking open of God’s word and teaching the faith to others.

It was most touching, as the Mareda members stood up and began applauding as soon as Dr. Lisa walked through the doors; they knew it would most likely be the last time she would be seeing them. On behalf of all the youth, children, parents, and other adults who never said it directly, she thanked them deeply for the tremendous service they provide for our Church; she reminded them that her years serving them were years of great fun and meaningful ministry with hard-working and dedicated colleagues.