Abstract

This study "A Pastoral - Theological Evaluation on the Formation of Lay Catechists in Catholic Church" undertakes a critical examination of how lay catechists are formed within the Catholic Church, focusing on the interplay between pastoral needs and theological education. Drawing on key Church teachings like Catechesis Tridentina and the General Directory for Catechesis, the research assesses the adequacy, effectiveness, and theological foundations of current formation programmes. Using a qualitative approach, it engages with Church documents, empirical data on catechists' training, and pastoral outcomes in diverse Nigerian contexts. The findings highlight gaps in contextualization, spiritual formation, and ongoing support all of which affect catechists' ability to transmit the faith effectively. In response, the study proposes a renewed formation model that integrates inculturation, adult learning principles, and sustained accompaniment, aiming to bolster the Church's catechetical mission.