What is a catechist? Definition

A friend of mine posed this question when I posted about our celebration of Catechetical Sunday last week:  What is a catechist?  Good questions, isn't it?  I found this definition on a Catholic website: A Catechist is a person of faith who leads others in understanding the faith teachings according to the official teachings of the Church, the Catechism of the Catholic Church.  The role of the catechist is a vital ministry to the Church.  It is a gift that has tremendous value to the world community at large because through the catechist’s word and action, the message of Christ continues to have a place in all human affairs.  Usually, in most diocese, to be designated a catechist, one receives a particular training and certification.  Otherwise, one is referred to as a teacher of religious education.  Interesting question - interesting answer!