Question 3:

Why have a catechism ‘for adults’? Is this a new trend?

Answer 3:

When we hear the words ‘catechism’ and ‘catechesis’ we tend to think of the catechesis/instruction of children. However, the catechesis of adults takes primary place in the renewal of catechesis in our time. The General Directory for Catechesis (GDC) states: ‘Catechesis for adults, since it deals with persons who are capable of an adherence that is fully responsible, must be considered the chief form of catechesis. All other forms, which are indeed necessary, are in some way oriented to it’ (GDC 20).

A catechism is an authoritative statement of Catholic and Christian teaching. It is the “go-to” resource for any serious query about what Catholics believe, how Catholics pray and the different details of Catholic life. For the devout believer or sincere seeker, this Catechism will provide easily understood information, with clear explanations and apt examples. For both Catholics and others, we hope that this Catechism might inspire and console, stimulate and encourage, nourish and satisfy the heart and soul as well as the mind. Thus this Catechism is intended for the spiritual formation of adult Irish Catholics and for the religious information of other interested readers.