FOUNDATIONS OF CATECHESIS

Catalog description

Beginning with the early Church and continuing through our own time, this course will explore the nature of catechesis through important catechetical texts which describe the rich tradition of the formation of Christian disciples and the handin g on of our Catholic faith through word and sacrament. Because all catechesis is directed toward attaining intimacy with Christ (Catechesi Tradendae 5) and sacramental initiation, the christocentric and ecclesial dimensions of catechesis will be explored and emphasize d. Course readings elucidate the dynamic relationship between catechesis, evangelization and conversion. These readings may include the Didache, Apostolic Fathers through Irenaeus, St. Cyril of Jerusalem, Rufinus of Aquileia, and Erasmus of Rotterdam’s Cat echetical writings. The course culminates in a careful study of the Roman Catechism (Catechism of the Council of Trent) side by side with the modern Catechism. Prerequisites: THEO 105, THEO 205.