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The importance of the group
(22)
159. Groups play an important
function in the development processes of people. The same is true of
catechesis, both for children where it fosters a rounded sociability, and for
young people where groups are practically a vital necessity for personality
formation. The same is true of adults where they promote a sense of dialogue
and sharing as well as a sense of Christian co-responsibility. The catechist
who participates in such groups and who evaluates and notes their dynamics
recognizes and plays the primary specific role of participating in the name of
the Church as an active witness to the Gospel, capable of sharing with others
the fruits of his mature faith as well as stimulating intelligently the common
search for faith. Apart from its didactic aspect, the Christian group is called
to be an experience of community and a form of participation in ecclesial life.
It finds its goal and fullest manifestation in the more extended Eucharistic
community. Jesus says: "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there
am I in their midst" (Mt 18:20).
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