Katecheza

Katecheza, or catechesis, is the structured religious instruction provided within Christian communities to teach the faith, morals, and practices of the Church. The term derives from Greek katechesis, meaning instruction by oral teaching, and is used in many languages (for example, Polish katecheza). It serves both new converts and baptized members seeking deeper formation and often forms part of sacramental preparation.

Programs typically cover core elements of the faith, including the creeds, the sacraments, the Ten Commandments or moral law, and prayer and liturgy, as well as the life of the church. The aim is to enable believers to understand and articulate their beliefs, participate actively in worship, and live according to church teachings. Catechesis may be conducted in parish settings, schools, homes, or online, and is usually facilitated by trained catechists or educators.

Historically, catechesis traces to the early Church’s catechumenate, a period of instruction before baptism. Over time it evolved into various formats, including parish-based programs, school-based instruction, and ecumenical approaches. In Catholic practice, catechesis has been shaped by Vatican II and the catechetical materials of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, while Protestant and Orthodox traditions maintain their own catechetical forms, often with emphasis on Scripture study and doctrinal instruction.

Today, katecheza often combines in-person and digital resources, ongoing formation for catechists, and flexible pathways for different ages and levels of faith formation, from children to adults.