Peran Katekis Sebagai Pelayan Sabda Dalam Kerasulan Gereja Katolik: Tinjauan Teologis-Pastoral

Abstract

The role of catechists in the apostolic mission of the Catholic Church remains strategically significant yet frequently underexplored in pastoral scholarship. This paper examines the nature of catechists' contributions through a pastoral perspective, drawing on Church documents, theological literature, and relevant academic journals. Using a descriptive-qualitative library research method, this study identifies five core dimensions of catechetical ministry proclamation, teaching, community accompaniment, witness, and charitable service while also mapping the external and internal challenges that constrain catechists' effectiveness. Findings indicate that without sustained institutional formation that encompasses spiritual deepening, pedagogical training, the provision of pastoral resources, and structured accompaniment, the transformative potential of catechetical service is substantially diminished. The study concludes that the Church must treat the ongoing formation and support of catechists not as an optional supplement but as a pastoral imperative integral to the evangelizing mission of the local Church.