The office assists parishes in fulfilling the Six Tasks of Catechesis:
- Promotes the knowledge of faith
- Promotes a knowledge of the meaning of the Liturgy and the sacraments
- Promotes moral formation in Jesus Christ
- Teaches Christians how to pray with Jesus Christ
- Prepares Christians to live in community and to participate actively in the life and mission of the Church
- Promotes a missionary spirit that prepares the faithful to be present as Christians in society (NDC #20)
In parishes, catechesis for children takes many forms:
- Catechetical programs for children
- First Sacramental Preparation
- Intergenerational Catechesis
- Family Centered Catechesis
- Vacation Bible School
- Evangelization and Special Events.
Catechesis is the responsibility of the entire community and is most effective when there is a real partnership between the parish community, the family and those who serve as catechists in parish programs.
The Catholic Church is to proclaim the Gospel message in such a way that it may take root in those being catechized and foster conversion to the person and message of Jesus Christ. Catechesis is an essential component of the Church’s mission of evangelization. Its definitive aim “is to put people not only in touch, but also in communion and intimacy, with Jesus Christ.” (National Directory for Catechesis #19B) Catechesis echoes the faith of the multicultural Church as it is believed, celebrated, lived, and prayed. It is a gradual and lifelong process with Jesus Christ at its center. A Catechist’s vocation is to communicate the Gospel message and the teachings of the Church in a way that connects with the lives and experiences of children and moves them to develop a “living, conscious and active” faith. The goal is ongoing conversion and discipleship to Jesus Christ.
Key Documents