Have you ever wondered what your spiritual gift is? I did. In Ephesians 4:11 (NIV), we learn that “Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers.” These gifts aren’t just for leaders—they’re for everyday believers to serve and strengthen the body of Jesus. 

Through introspection, I discovered that my gift is teaching young people about Jesus as a catechist (a teacher of the principles of Christian religion). I’m blessed to help them grow in faith. If you’ve ever felt called to share God’s love, your gift might be waiting to shine!

Understanding Spiritual Gifts

Spiritual gifts are special abilities God gives to glorify Him and serve others. They aren’t talents we develop independently but divine gifts meant to build up the Church. Ephesians 4:11 reminds us that God calls some to be teachers, pastors, and evangelists—each role working together to spread His Word.

Teaching is a powerful spiritual gift. It’s more than sharing knowledge; it’s about shaping hearts and guiding people toward a deeper relationship with Christ. As a catechist, I planted seeds of faith that grow over a lifetime.

Every spiritual gift has a purpose. Just as a church needs pastors, worship leaders, and servants, it also needs teachers to nurture the next generation. We create a strong, faith-filled community by embracing our gifts and working together. Teaching young people isn’t just important—it’s a calling that helps build the future of the Church!

Saint Katharine Drexel: A Model of Teaching and Service

Saint Katharine Drexel was born into extreme wealth but chose a different path—one of faith, service, and education. Instead of living a life of luxury, she dedicated herself to helping Native American and African American students by providing them with quality education and spiritual guidance.

One powerful moment in her faith journey came when she met a group of teens preparing for baptism. She saw their deep hunger for faith and realized that education and spiritual growth had to go hand in hand. This inspired her to establish schools where young people could learn academics and how to live out their faith.

Her work reflected Ephesians 4:11—she was called to teach and equip the next generation in Christ. Today, catechists follow in her footsteps, guiding young people in their faith journey. Like Saint Katharine Drexel, we are called to nurture and inspire the future Church.

Personal Reflection: Teaching as a Catechist

Teaching young people about Jesus isn’t just a job; it’s an adventure that deepens my own faith. 

I’ll never forget a tween in my Mother Seton Parish class, who was preparing for baptism. He asked, “How do I know Jesus is with me all the time?” Like my mother taught me, I turned the answer into a question for the class…”How do you know when Jesus is with you?”

We had a heartfelt discussion about prayer and trust. It was amazing to listen to acts of faith from 12-year-olds. I saw the realization in their eyes. As Christians, we agreed that He was our guiding light, our Savior. 

I discovered that I truly was a teacher of faith. Moments like this remind me of Saint Katharine Drexel, who saw the potential in every child she taught. Knowing that faith can transform lives, we should plant the seeds in a classroom or a conversation.

Conclusion: Encouragement to Embrace Your Gifts

Ephesians 4:11 extols that God has called each of us to serve in different ways. Teaching is mine, a powerful gift. Like Katharine Drexel, my words can shape hearts and inspire the next generation in faith.

Embrace your gift and make an everlasting impact!