Letter to Catechists
Those who pass on the faith
Editor’s Note: This is a letter that Fr. Ben Daghir wrote to catechists at St. Francis Xavier Parish in McKean at the start of the 2025-2026 Faith Formation year.
Dear Catechists,
With the beginning of this new year of faith formation, I want to express my gratitude to each of you. Your “yes” to serve our parish in this way is a great gift, not only to our young people but also to the entire Church.
Pope St. Paul VI once wrote: “Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses.” These words remind us that while knowledge and instruction are essential, the most powerful lessons our young people will carry with them come from our lived example of faith.
You are not only passing on the truths of our Catholic faith—you are embodying them. I cannot thank you enough for living out our Catholic faith.
Our children and teens look up to you, and they will continue to look back on your witness for years to come. The patience you show, the joy you bring, the way you pray and speak about God—these things form their hearts as much as your words do.
I know that each of you has many responsibilities—families to care for, full-time work, and busy schedules. It is no small sacrifice to give your time and energy to this ministry.
Please know that I have the utmost respect for you and your dedication. Your presence in the classroom, your preparation, and your willingness to serve don’t just inspire our faith formation students, but they also inspire me.
As your pastor, I want you to know that you have my full support. You are a vital part of the mission of St. Francis Xavier Parish, and I am grateful for each of you.
May God bless you abundantly for the gift you are to our young people and to our parish family.
In Christ,
Fr. Ben Daghir
Pastor, St. Francis Xavier Parish
loved the news from St. Francis and seeing the special events. So happy for the parish family!