Roman Catholic Catechesis for Faith FormationCourse Level: Intermediate

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Course Summary

This course explores the five tasks of catechesis as presented in the Directory for Catechesis (2020). Inspired by the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the five tasks serve as a roadmap, centered on our relationship with Jesus, that guide our mission to “go forth and make disciples of all nations” (Mt. 28:19). 

Successful completion of this course earns 2.5 CEU's. Click here for more information about CEU's.

General Course Objectives

  • Promote a style of evangelization that reflects communion with Jesus Christ as central to the transmission of the faith.
  • Examine the task “Knowledge of the Faith“ as essential for spiritual development and “Initiation into the Celebration of the Mystery”—particularly the baptismal catechumenate – as a source of inspiration for all forms of catechesis.
  • Describe how the tasks “Forming for Life in Christ” – with a focus on Catholic morality – and “Teaching Prayer” are interrelated and transformative.
  • Reflect upon the task “Introduction to Community Life” through the lens of inculturation.
  • Explain how the five tasks of catechesis are rooted in our relationship with Jesus and orient us toward missionary discipleship.

Course Materials

  • No books required. All readings are online.

Course Structure and Highlights

  • Week 1: Witness to Jesus
    • Illustrate an understanding of Christocentric and kerygmatic catechesis.
  • Week 2: Tasks of Catechesis: Leading to Knowledge of the Faith and Initiation into the Celebration of the Mystery
    • Examine the task “Knowledge of the Faith“ as essential for spiritual development and “Initiation into the Celebration of the Mystery” particularly the baptismal catechumenate as a source of inspiration for all forms of catechesis.
  • Week 3: Forming for Life in Christ and Teaching Prayer
    • Describe how the tasks “Forming for Life in Christ” and “Teaching Prayer” are inter-related and transformative.
  • Week 4: Introduction to Community Life and Inculturation
    • Reflect upon the task, “Introduction to Community Life” through the lens of inculturation.
  • Week 5: Attending to Beauty as Missionary Disciples
    • Explain how the five tasks of catechesis are rooted in missionary discipleship and communicated in ways that integrate beauty.