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Methodological principle for the
presentation of the message
(410)
118. The norms and criteria
indicated in this chapter and those concerning the "exposition of the
content of catechesis, must be applied in the various forms of catechesis, that
is to say, in biblical and liturgical catechesis, in doctrinal summaries, in
the interpretation of the conditions of human existence and so on.
(411)
From these, however, it is not possible to
deduce the order that should be observed in the exposition of catechetical
content. Indeed, "it can happen that in the present situation of
catechesis reasons of method or pedagogy may suggest that the communication of
the riches of the content of catechesis should be organized in one way rather
than another". (412) It is possible to begin with God so as to
arrive at Christ, and vice versa. Equally, it is possible to start with man and
come to God, and conversely. The selection of a particular order for presenting
the message is conditioned by circumstances, and by the faith level of those to
be catechized. It will always be necessary to elaborate with care that pedagogical
method which is most appropriate to the circumstances of an ecclesial community
or of those to whom catechesis is specifically addressed. Hence derives the
need to investigate correctly in order to find those means which best respond
to different situations.
It is a matter for Bishops to draw up more
particular norms for this and to apply them by means of Catechetical
Directories and catechisms which cater for different ages and cultural
conditions, as well as in other ways deemed more appropriate. (413)
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