Teachers, administrators attend bi-annual Regan Catechetical Institute Nov. 25-26
With the theme of “His Plan, Our Purpose,” the recent Monsignor Charles W. Regan Catechetical Institute reminded educators of the Diocese of Wichita about their vocation as a Catholic School Teacher.
Seven hundred seventy-one teachers and administrators participated in the bi-annual institute held Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 25-26, at Church of the Magdalen Parish in Wichita.
“I am so grateful to the teachers for the spirit, enthusiasm, and joy they bring to this event,” said Superintendent of Catholic Schools Janet Eaton. “Since the days of Covid, we have given an effort to remake the institute, whereby it includes two beautiful liturgies, a keynote speaker, four one-hour sessions on a variety of topics as chosen by the teacher, meals together, and fellowship.”
KSU priest one of the speakers
Keynote speakers at this year’s event were Fr. Gale Hammerschmidt, the pastor of St. Isidore Catholic Student Center at Kansas State University, and Catholic author and radio host Jon Leonetti.
Leonetti talked about the importance of the foundation of our faith and how that aligns with the mission of Catholic schools. Fr. Hammerschmidt talked about the importance of Catholic school teachers in student lives. Fr. Gale noted the Diocese of Wichita students at his campus center demonstrate the excellence of our teachers and schools.
Kristin Schmitz, the assistant superintendent of Catholic Schools, said this year’s event covered a wide range of topics. “The presentations went from forming one’s heart and relationship with Christ all the way to a better understanding of the fundamentals of our faith – our core beliefs.”
Breakout sessions held
In addition to the keynote speakers, attendees were able to choose from many breakout sessions. Among the speakers were Tony Habashy who talked about the Unbound ministry, Beth Ferraro discussed Theology of the Body, Lisa Maliszewski spoke about Pope Francis, Coaches Mike Watts and Josh Regan talked about winning souls on the court or field, Sr. Maria Jacinta made three different presentations on saints, and Fr. Chad Arnold discussed church teaching and same-sex attraction. Fr. David Lies’ topic was Rite of Exorcism and Deliverance Ministry. Fr. Eric Weldon talked about apologetics. Sixty-five different presentations were made.
In addition to a Mass celebrated by Bishop Carl A. Kemme, the teachers were able to take part in adoration and go to confession. Thirty-four priests heard confessions during the Regan Institute.
The Regan Catechetical Institute is in part funded by the Monsignor Charles W. Regan endowment fund. This event was founded by Bob Voboril, the former superintendent of Catholic Schools and since 2022 it has been remade to the present format.