“Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” — 1 Peter 3:15
In today’s fast-paced world, where confusion and indifference often cloud matters of faith, the need for authentic catechesis has never been more relevant and needed. Many Catholics struggle to explain what they believe (Creed), or why the Church teaches certain things (Tradition & Magisterium). Children and youth face competing voices, while adults often feel illequipped to pass on the faith. This is why we are reviving Catechesis Corner—to provide clear, faithful, and engaging insights into what the Church teaches and how it applies to everyday life. Catechesis: what it really means?
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), “Catechesis is an education in the faith of children, young people and adults… especially by teaching Christian doctrine in an organic and systematic way.” (CCC, 5) It is more than a religious instruction—it is a lifelong journey of growing in knowledge, love, and service of Jesus Christ. The word comes from the Greek katechein, meaning “to echo.” As catechists (and every baptized Catholic is called to be one in some way), we are called to echo the voice of Christ to the world. Catechesis is rooted in Sacred Scripture and Tradition and aims at forming disciples- “Go forth, make disciples of all nations…” (Mathew 28:19), and not just imparting information.
This is why Pope St. John Paul II emphasized in his apostolic exhortation Catechesi Tradendae that the “definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch but in communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ” (CT 5). The Role of Catechesis Today Our culture is full of noise— ideologies, misinformation, and spiritual apathy. Yet deep down, many people are still search for God, for truth, for hope, and for meaning. In this context, catechesis is not optional—it is mission for us too to be missionaries. “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” — Matthew 28:19–20 This mission given first to the Apostles continues through the Church today, and catechesis is one of its primary instruments.
It is the Church’s response to the command to “make disciples” through teaching. The mission to make disciples does not stop at evangelisation (the proclamation of the Good News), but continues with a systematic instruction that forms the heart, mind and action of the Christian faithful. The second part, “teach them to observe” means catechesis goes beyond mere knowledge of the faith, it helps the receiver live what Christ taught- forming habits, virtues, and sacramental life rooted in love of God and neighbor.
Catechesis also helps us answer questions like:
– What does the Church really teach about salvation?
– Why do we go to Mass every Sunday?
– How do we live the moral teachings of the Gospel in today’s world?
– How can parents be the first catechists of their children? Thus, catechesis in today’s world is not optional, but very essential. Through this ministry, the Church helps the faithful to move from hearing the Word to understanding it deeply, accepting it fully, and living it faithfully. What to expect from this Column? Each edition of Catechesis Corner will explore a topic of faith, offering:
– Clear explanations rooted in the Catechism and Sacred Scripture
– Insight from Church documents and the lives of the saints
– Practical tips for living and sharing the faith
– Questions for personal or group reflection So, whether you are a catechist, parent, student, or simply someone hungry to know more about your faith, this space is for you. Our Journey Together Reviving this column is part of our broader mission of evangelization and renewal in the Archdiocese.
As we begin this journey, we invite you to walk with us, ask questions, share feedback, and most of all—be open to growing in faith. Let us echo the truth of Christ together. The Church needs it. The world needs it. We need it. Have a Question About the Faith? Write to us at religious660@ gmail.com—your question may be featured in a future issue of Catechesis Corner. Hope to hear from YOU soon. Stay blessed!
• Rev. Sr. Mary Judith Madueke, EHJ, Director, Religious Education Department, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos.
