catechize

Catechize is a verb meaning to instruct someone in the principles of Christian doctrine through the method of catechesis, typically by question-and-answer dialogue. The term derives from catechism, from Latin catechesis, from Greek katechein, meaning to instruct by questioning. In religious contexts, catechization involves presenting essential beliefs, practices, and moral obligations using a structured catechism, and may be conducted with individuals or groups, often children or converts.

Historically, catechesis has been central to many Christian traditions, especially the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Lutheran, and Anglican communities. Catechism classes traditionally use a printed catechism or ritual instruction and emphasize memorization of key questions and answers, creed, Lord's Prayer, and commandments. In broader usage, catechize can refer to instructing someone in any system of beliefs through a question-and-answer format, not necessarily religious.

In modern practice, catechesis may be broader and include liturgy, sacraments, ethics, and personal faith formation, sometimes integrating multimedia resources or experiential components. The adjective catechetical describes instruction related to catechesis.

Examples: The pastor catechized the youth using the church's catechism. The course focuses on catechetical methods for presenting the faith clearly and concisely.