I am from Trinidad & Tobago in the Archdiocese of Port of Spain. I am the Religious Education Coordinator for Catholic Schools (2 years); and also the Catechetical Coordinator for the Northern Vicariate (10 years). Prior to this, I have been a sacramental formation catechist for over sixteen (16) years at parish level, serving as Parish Catechetical Coordinator and member of the Parish Council for about four seven (7) years. In addition, I taught at the Corpus Christi College of Occupational Education and Training for five (5) years.
I hold a BA in Theology (Hons), and I am presently enrolled at the Franciscan University in Steubenville Ohio, where I am pursuing my MA in Catechetics and Evangelisation (online). I facilitate training programmes for catechists and teachers, as well as formation seminars for adults throughout the Archdiocese. Recently I started lecturing (part-time) a certificate course in Catechesis at the St. John Vianney (SJVUM) Theological Institute.
With over twenty-seven (27) years of corporate experience in the Food and Beverage Service industry at middle and senior management levels, I appreciate what it means to be of service to others and to be humble in my leadership - qualities which have helped formed me into the person that I am today.
My interest in faith formation, stems from my personal desire to want to know more – not just about the Church but more so about God, and what it means to be in service to him. My decision to make this a career was not an easy one, but I recognised the need for re-evangelising, and catechising those who desire to be formed; and educating catechists, and the laity in the deposit of faith.
In the capacity of Director, I would bring a renewed zeal, creativity, and thrust to the religious education (catechetical) environment in the parish; utilising methodologies and practices that are engaging and life giving at all stages of formation. With my strong management ethics and standards, I would help to promote a spirit of Synodality that invites all ministries to play a pivotal role in the holistic, pastoral formation, and education of all members of the Church and her parish communities.
Should my application be considered, I am readily available for an online interview at your soonest convenience.
Yours Sincerely,
Andrew Fernandes