Many in the public do not realize the myriad of duties and effort it takes to accomplish what each person does to serve, produce, persuade, write, repair, advocate for, document, research, fundraise or build.
The third “Mile Makers” is Amy Pope, the religious education director at San Pedro Catholic Church on Plantation Key. She’s served in the role for the past eight years.
How did you decide to become a Catholic religious education director? It is a role my mother held for almost 30 years in the small town where I grew up in Texas. After my mother’s sudden and unexpected passing, my family and I moved to the Florida Keys. I went to the parish office at San Pedro to have a Mass said for my mother. During that visit, a conversation began that led to me taking on the role at San Pedro.
What are your connections to the Florida Keys? My husband, Billy Pope, grew up in the Keys; his family members have been parishioners at San Pedro for more than 50 years. The church holds a very special meaning to Billy as well.
What does your role as religious education director entail? At San Pedro Catholic Church, the role of the religious education director is not just a position — it’s a vocation dedicated to nurturing the faith of our youngest Catholic parishioners and strengthening the spiritual fabric of our community. I am privileged to lead our efforts in providing a robust program that fosters a deep and lasting relationship with God for both the children and their families.
What is an aspect of your vocation that others may not think of? One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is guiding children through the preparation for sacraments such as first Communion, reconciliation and confirmation. These milestones are pivotal in their spiritual development. Working closely with dedicated catechists, we ensure that each child is well-prepared and understands the significance of these sacraments. The joy and reverence displayed by the children during these ceremonies are truly heartwarming and affirm the importance of our work.
In your opinion, what makes your role important? Religious education at San Pedro is not just about the children; it is a family affair. We strive to create an inclusive environment where parents and guardians are actively involved in their child’s faith formation. This community-centric approach helps to reinforce the values and teachings children receive in class, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the church walls.
What is most rewarding about being the San Pedro Catholic Church’s religious education director? Witnessing the growth of our students’ faith, seeing them develop a closer relationship with God and knowing that I play a small part in shaping their spiritual journey is profoundly fulfilling. Each day brings new challenges and rewards, and I am continually inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm of our students and their families and especially that of our teachers. The religious education program at San Pedro is part of an important mission of our church community, providing children and their families with the tools and knowledge to grow in their faith and live out their Christian values. It is an honor to lead this program, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the spiritual development of our parish.More information about San Pedro Catholic Church and its programs is at www.sanpedroparish.org. To serve or volunteer, call 305-852-5372.
