25. Missionary zeal. The missionary dimension is an essential part of a catechist's identity and work, and so should be given a prominent place in the formation program. Catechists should be taught, theoretically and practically, how to devote themselves as lay Christians to the missionary apostolate, which includes the following elements:

- Being actively present in society, offering true Christian witness, entering into sincere dialogue with others, and cooperating in charity to resolve common problems.

- Proclaiming boldly (cf. Acts 4:13; 28:31) the truth about God and his Son Jesus Christ, whom He sent into the world for the salvation of all (cf. 2Tim 1:9-10), so that those of other religions whose hearts are opened by the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 16:14) may be able to believe and be freely converted.

- Meeting followers of other religions in a spirit of openness and dialogue.

- Introducing catechumens to the mystery of salvation, the practice of evangelical norms, and the religious, liturgical and community life of the People of God.

- Building community and helping candidates prepare for the reception of baptism and the other sacraments of Christian initiation, as they become members of the Church of Christ, which is prophetic, priestly and royal.

- With dependence on the Pastors and in collaboration with the faithful, fulfilling those practices, which according the pastoral design are destined to the maturing of the particular Church. These services are connected with various necessities of each Church and mark the catechist of the mission territories. As a result the formative activity must help the catechist to improve his own missionary sensibility, enabling him to discover and be involved in all the favorable situations at the first proclamation.

We have already quoted words of Pope John Paul II concerning catechists who are well trained in a missionary spirit and who themselves become missionary animators in their community, work for the evangelization of non-Christians, and are willing to do so outside of their own region or nation when sent by their Pastors. Pastors will make the most of these zealous apostles and encourage them in their missionary work.