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Catechesis for the aged
(85)
Old age, gift of God to the Church
186. In many countries, the
growing number of old people represents a new and specific pastoral challenge
for the Church. Not infrequently the old are seen as passive objects and
possibly even as an encumbrance. In the light of faith, however, they must be
understood as a gift of God to the Church and to society, and must also be
given adequate catechetical care. In catechesis, they have the same rights and
duties as all Christians.
Attention must always be paid to the
diversity of personal, family and social conditions. In particular, account
must be taken of factors such as isolation and the risk of marginalization. The
family has a primary function, since it is here that the proclamation of the
faith can take place in an environment of acceptance and of love which best
confirm the validity of the word. In any event, catechesis addressed to the
aged will associate with the content of faith the caring presence of the
catechist and of the community of believers. For this reason, it is most
desirable that the aged participate fully in the catechetical journey of the
community.
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