Catechesis [from the Greek word καταχεω] is the act of handing on the Word of God intended to teach the People of God and candidates for initiation into the Church about the teachings of Christ, transmitted by the Apostles to the Church. Catechesis also involves the lifelong effort of forming people into witnesses to Christ and opening their hearts to the spiritual transformation given by the Holy Spirit. 

     Catechesis in the Middle Ages was largely limited to the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer, the 10 Commandments, the Sacraments, Beatitudes, etc.  These lessons were largely taught four times a year in homilies. By 1368, a formal catechism containing instruction for the teaching of Catholc Doctrine was published for priests.  

     In response to the Protestant "Reformation," the Council of Trent (1545-1563) stated that church reform must begin with religious instruction of the young. The Council decreed that throughout the Universal Church instructions in Christian doctrine should be given on Sundays and festivals.  This began the first "Sunday Schools," what is technically called the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD).  

     In our era, CCD is taught by volunteer teacchers. Attendance is vital to children’s development as Catholics. These classes not only educate children about Jesus and the Catholic faith but prepare children to receive the Sacraments of Penance (confession), the Eucharist (Holy Communion), and Confirmation.

"The Seven Sacraments continue the saving work of Jesus until he comes again and form the center of the celebration of the Christian mystery. Through the ministry of the Church, all are invited to hear the Good News, follow Christ and share in these saving mysteries: mysteries that symbolize, make possible, realize and nurture the grace of the sacraments in the baptized. 

Participation in the sacraments ... is foundational to sustain the faithful in union with the very life of the Trinity.Participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, is not simply an option; rather, it is foundational to sustain the faithful in union with the very life of the Trinity and to strengthen them for the rigors of living their faith as committed disciples."

-- The US Conference of Catholic Bishops

"The Christian family is the first place of education in prayer. Based on the sacrament of marriage, the family is the "domestic church" where God's children learn to pray "as the Church" and to persevere in prayer. For young children in particular, daily family prayer is the first witness of the Church's living memory as awakened patiently by the Holy Spirit." (CCC 2685)

"The catechesis of children, young people, and adults aims at teaching them to meditate on The Word of God in personal prayer, practicing it in liturgical prayer, and internalizing it at all times in order to bear fruit in a new life. Catechesis is also a time for the discernment and education of popular piety.  The memorization of basic prayers offers an essential support to the life of prayer, but it is important to help learners savor their meaning." (CCC 2688)

     Sacramental Preparation is at the heart of the Catholic tradition.  The gift of the Sacraments of the New Covenant to and through the Church nourishes, empowers, strengthens the Christian on the journey to heaven.  Religious education begins on Sunday at 10:45 AM following Mass and Sunday at 4:30 (Hispanic).  Classes meet in the Education building of St. Bernadette Hall.  Registration begins in August.

1. Grades 1 - 2 prepare youth for their First Confession and First Communion.  
2. Grades 3 - 6 instruct youth in a deeper understanding of their faith.
3. Grades 7 - 8 prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation with the Bishop of Charleston.