Commentary
This section gives an overview of the models available to accomplish effective catechesis as one of many opportunities offered them by the parish community.
Adolescent Catechesis includes sponsoring youth toward maturity in Catholic Christian faith as a living reality through the kind of teaching and learning that emphasizes understanding, reflection, and transformation. Adolescent Catechesis done well fosters in youth a communal identity as Catholic Christians within the inter-generational community of faith and helps them to develop their own personal faith identity.
Adolescent catechesis is at the heart of comprehensive youth ministry. While everything that happens under the umbrella of parish youth ministry should include a catechetical component, intentional catechesis to, with, and for young people is also required.
Related Policies
4.1 The Diocese of Wilmington requires at least 30 hours of face-to-face instruction over the course of a school (program) year.
Policies
4.1 The Diocese of Wilmington requires at least 30 hours of face-to-face instruction over the course of a school (program) year.
4.2 Adults who serve as catechists within specific Adolescent Catechesis programs (i.e., an eighth grade catechist, a Bible Study leader, etc.) must be actively involved in the Diocesan Catechetical Formation Process.
4.3 The job description of the Coordinator for Youth Ministry and/or DRE/CRE must delineate who is responsible for adolescent catechesis programs and Confirmation preparation.
4.4 Youth Ministry Leaders must follow all guidelines outlined in For the Sake of God’s Children, including utilizing the checklists in Appendix Four (Safe Environments) when choosing a model of adolescent catechesis.
4.5 Parishes that choose to build small faith communities that meet in private homes must utilize the appropriate check list in Appendix Four of this manual.
4.6 Parishes are to follow the Diocesan Guidelines for Confirmation when preparing young people for reception of the sacrament.
4.6.1 Preparation for reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation may not begin before eighth grade.
4.6.2 Catechesis for the Sacrament of Confirmation is a distinct program, separate from but integrated with other components of youth catechesis/youth ministry.
4.6.3 Confirmation Preparation does not include required service hours.