What is Catechism?

To many, the term "catechism" may evoke a sense of mysticism or other-worldly reverence, a word not too familiar in current circles. It simply means to teach systematically. Catechism derives from the Greek word Katecheõ which means to “teach.” The question-and-answer format teaches the young, strengthens believers, and testifies to the faith. Many churches, with varied denominations, use catechism to define their beliefs.

As people mature in the faith, they will use their catechism to delve deeper into the meanings and purposes of such statements, equipping them with answers to our important questions.

HOW DO YOU ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?

What is a sacrament?

What is our purpose?

What does every sin deserve?

What about this one - How did God create man?

We know the story, but would you include: God created man, male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over the creatures?

Yes, we can respond adequately to these questions, but are they comprehensive? Are they based on scripture or what we think they mean? There should be no pause and no uncertainty. We stand firm in the faith.

IT IS NOT ABOUT ANSWERING EACH QUESTION PRECISELY AND COMPLETELY, BUT WHETHER OUR WORLDVIEW OFFERS FINER ANSWERS THAN CONFLICTING WORLD VIEWS.

I recently asked a group of teenagers, “What are the 10 Commandments?” Three out of 12 knew them! Suffice it to say; I was grieved but not surprised. "Well, that is the school’s responsibility, you may (I stress may) say." My response is that catechizing requires collaboration. Learning begins at home and then at school; we are partners. We pray these high school students will go the right way, the only Way.

How Can I Use the Catechism for My Family?

Find a version that is adapted or simplified to meet your context. Once you do, speak it in your home, paste it somewhere visibly, quiz your children through games at the dinner table - be creative, but be deliberate.

Deuteronomy 6:7 “You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”

Upcoming Speech Meet

(Thursday, November 17 @ 9:00 a.m.)

Grapeville Christian School trains our students to engage intellectually, speak eloquently, and be followers of Christ. Through our Annual Speech Meet, students learn to recite memorized scriptures, playful reader's theatre, poetry, puppet performances, and much more. The practice of recitation and public speaking equips our youth to confidently share the Gospel message and defend the Christian faith.

Come support the students - you will be blessed.