Directory for Catechesis: A General Overview and ReflectionCourse Level: Basic

Course Summary

This e-seminar is an overview of the Directory for Catechesis which presents how-to guidelines for catechesis within the work of evangelization. This e-seminar gives primary consideration to key concepts that are new, expanded, or changed from previous directories. It is recommended for clergy, parish staff, volunteer catechists, teachers, ministry heads, and all involved in formal religious instruction.

Successful completion of this course earns 1.5 CEU's. Click here for more information about CEU's.

General Course Objectives

  • Explain what is meant by divine pedagogy
  • Recognize the primacy of evangelization in the catechetical process
  • Evaluate practical catechetical methods for various groups of participants
  • Describe the revised goals and tasks of catechesis
  • Examine the role of catechesis in various cultures such as the digital culture, globalization of culture, and others to which catechists need to be attentive

Course Materials

  • Required Book: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Directory for Catechesis USCCB Publishing, June 25, 2020, ISBN: 1601376693; ISBN-13: 978-1601376695; ASIN: B08FCT5TLJ

Course Structure and Highlights

  • Week 1: Catechesis and Evangelization
    • Explain the role of catechesis within the process of evangelization
    • Analyze the revised goals and tasks of catechesis
    • Consider the elements of formation of catechists
  • Week 2: The Process of Catechesis
    • Explain divine pedagogy as the source and model for catechesis
    • Describe the place of the Catechism of the Catholic Church in the process of catechesis
    • Evaluate practical catechetical methods for various groups of participants
  • Week 3: Catechesis in Community and Culture
    • Explain how catechesis can assist in the proper use of the digital culture
    • Create practical examples of catechesis adapted to people’s lived experiences in Christian and ecumenical communities