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Observations on the totality of these
tasks
87. The tasks of catechesis,
consequently, constitute a totality, rich and varied in aspect. On this point
it is opportune to make some observations.
– "All of these tasks are necessary. As
the vitality of the human body depends on the proper function of all of its
organs, so also the maturation of the Christian life requires that it be
cultivated in all its dimensions: knowledge of the faith, liturgical life,
moral formation, prayer, belonging to community, missionary spirit. When
catechesis omits one of these elements, the Christian faith does not attain
full development.
– Each task realizes, in its own way, the
object of catechesis. Moral formation, for example, is essentially
christological and trinitarian. It is deeply ecclesial, while also open to
social concerns. The same is true of liturgical formation. While essentially
religious and ecclesial, it also strongly demands commitment to the
evangelization of the world.
– These tasks are interdependent and develop
together. Each great catechetical theme—catechesis of God the Father, for
example—has a cognitive dimension as well as moral implications. It is
interiorized in prayer and appropriated in witness. One task echoes the other:
knowledge of the faith prepares for mission; the sacramental life gives
strength for moral transformation.
– To fulfil its tasks, catechesis avails of
two principal means: transmission of the Gospel message and experience of the
Christian life. (275) Liturgical formation, for example, must explain
what the Christian liturgy is, and what the sacraments are. It must also
however, offer an experience of the different kinds of celebration and it must
make symbols, gestures, etc. known and loved. Moral formation not only
transmits the content of Christian morality, but also cultivates active
evangelical attitudes and Christian values.
– The different dimensions of faith are
objects of formation, as much of being given as received. Knowledge of the
faith, liturgical life, the following of Christ are all a gift of the Spirit
which are received in prayer, and similarly a duty of spiritual and moral study
and witness. Neither aspect may be neglected. (276)
– Every dimension of the faith, like the
faith itself as a whole, must be rooted in human experience and not remain a
mere adjunct to the human person. Knowledge of the faith is significant. It
gives light to the whole of existence and dialogues with culture. In the
liturgy, all personal life becomes a spiritual oblation. The morality of the
Gospel assumes and elevates human values. Prayer is open to all personal and
social problems. (277)
As the 1971 Directory indicates, "it is
very important that catechesis retain the richness of these various aspects in
such a way that one aspect is not separated from the rest to the detriment of
the others". (278)
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