| Religious
Education
ENCOUNTERING THE LIVING CHRIST
When was the last time I encountered the living Christ?
Catechesis is one of the greatest treasures of the Church. It is a ministry of the Word that matures faith by building on its foundation making it active and fruitful. It is Christ who is at work here. In essence, catechesis is about a relationship with him.
We all know that Christ is at the center of catechesis and intimacy with Christ is its goal. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops teaches, "Catechesis leads people to enter the mystery of Christ, to encounter him, and to discover themselves and the meaning of their lives in him" (National Directory for Catechesis -#19b). So our catechetical journey is life long and life changing, and it can be deepened in both the parish and the home.
Most formal catechesis occurs in the parish (adult education, sacramental programs, etc.). Each time we reflect on faith and grow in understanding of the Church's rich tradition, we encounter Christ anew. In one sense, all facets of parish life are catechetical.
We also know that home life is catechetical as well. The family is where faith matures and where active discipleship is caught. A simple act of attending Sunday Mass weaves Christ into the weekly fabric of family life.
Let's take time to recall the many opportunities we have had to meet Christ through catechetical moments at the parish and at home. Let's continue to encounter the Living Christ every day.
(Much of this reflection is taken from an article published by the USCCB. 2007)
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