Catechesis means to echo what Christ has taught. Catechesis, therefore, is the handing on of Jesus’ teaching which was given to the apostles (the Deposit of Faith) and transmitted through Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. The Catechism of the Catholic Church outlines this teaching in an authentic manner and is therefore a “sure norm for teaching the faith” (Pope John Paul II, Fidei Depositum, Para. 3).
The definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch but in communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ: only He can lead us to the love of the Father in the Spirit and make us share in the life of the Holy Trinity (Saint Pope John Paul II, Catechesis Tradendae, Para. 5).
The Office of Child and Family Catechesis supports the parish partnership with parents in the faith formation of the youngest members of the Church, those from early childhood through the intermediate grade levels. The premise of faith formation for a child is to know that he/she is loved by God and is part of the Christian family. The Office of Child and Family Catechesis, therefore provides a model of accompaniment to evangelize, educate and equip parish leaders and parents towards becoming missionary disciples.
Catechesis
240 East Onondaga Street
Syracuse, NY 13202-2608
T: (315) 470-1431 | F: (315) 478-4619
Respond to the needs of DRE's/REA's, parish leaders, coordinators and catechists through education formation and resources.
Challenge ourselves and others to vision - creating a future rooted in the richness of the past & responsive to the Spirit of the present.
Equip and empower the faithful to exercise their baptismal call to evangelize.
Emphasize faith formation for all people as a lifelong and life-connected process.
Include a family perspective in all endeavors.
Model a particular commitment to global and local issues of social justice.
Foster the intimate connection between liturgy and catechesis.
Collaborate with all diocesan offices, parishes and other faith communities and local agencies.