Message from our Archbishop

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states thus: “Catechesis is an education in the faith of children, young people, and adults which includes especially the teaching of Christian doctrine imparted, generally speaking, in an organic and systematic way, with a view to initiating the hearers into the fullness of Christian life” (CCC, No.5).

The process of Catechesis originates from the Apostles as part of evangelization. It is a lifelong process through prayers and forming the people in Christian Faith. As we know from the history of the Church, early Christians led a life of sharing and thanksgiving. The Christian families have to follow the rich tradition of the early Christians in and promote home catechesis as our way of life. We had a beautiful tradition of all the family members coming together for the Angelus when the church bells ring. Parents and Grandparents would share spiritual stories with the children which in turn would be a source of spiritual formation of the young generation. But in this modern world Children have fewer opportunities to obtain a spiritual formation as there is a strong influence of the electronic devices and the social media. The Archdiocesan Commission for Catechetics has a vital role to play in faith formation of the children in the present era.

I would like to remind you the main objectives of catechetics.

First of all it is to encourage the re-evangelizing process drawing inspiration from baptismal catechumenate. It also includes the promotion of catechesis for all the age groups such as adults, youth and children.

More over catechesis is to be carried out in various settings like parishes, institutions and families. There has to be steps to enhance the professional competence of those involved in the catechetical ministry by equipping them with the knowledge and the skills necessary through short-term and long-term catechetical courses.

Besides, catechetics is to be given importance in the priestly formation also. The use of modern means of communication in catechesis is also to be promoted at all possible levels. Let us strive together to achieve these goals. I impart my paternal blessings upon all the team members. May God Bless you.