A catechist appreciation dinner took place July 9 to thank faith formation and confirmation teachers from Sacred Heart St. Francis Parish in Bennington and St. John the Baptist Parish in North Bennington for their ministry.

Holy Cross Father Robert Wiseman announced that the two parishes will merge faith formation programs similar to the confirmation program that serves both parishes and The School of Sacred Heart St. Francis de Sales.  Discussion followed, highlighting the need to keep the traditions of both churches alive, the importance of the family role in educating the children in their faith and building the connection between the parishes and the school.

In addition to thanking all the catechists for their ministry, a special thank you was given to Luisa Millington who has served as Parish Catechetical Leader at St. Johns for the past eight years.

Long-time catechists Joanne Holden and Lori Gratton also are stepping away from teaching, and their dedication and service are greatly appreciated. Holden will continue ministry in baptismal preparation at St. John’s.