cat​e​chism 

(ˈka-tə-ˌki-zəm)

a summary of the principles of Christian religion in the form of questions and answers, used for the instruction of Christians

Catechism is an old word that basically means “questions and answers” and has been the term used for over 500 years in the church for the process of teaching the principles of the gospel and its building blocks in a way that is biblically thorough and rich. The New City Catechism itself is a relatively new collection of questions and answers that has been compiled from some of the older catechisms used throughout history. It has updated wording, shortened versions for children, and even songs!

We echo Tim Keller's enthusiasm about the catechism process: “If we re-engage in this biblical practice in our churches, we will find again God’s Word ‘dwelling in us richly’ (see Col. 3:16), because the practice of catechesis takes truth deep into our hearts, so we find ourselves thinking in biblical categories as soon as we can reason.” This is our hope for the kids who join our class.

Every 4th and 5th grade catechism student is given the kids’ version of the catechism in the form of a little white book, so that they can take time to study the questions and answers at home. We also have copies of the full version available at our resource table. 

Our hope each time we meet on the 2nd Sunday of the month is to spend time learning the questions and answers themselves, as well as to teach the “why” behind what they are learning. This will also include spending time in the Bible and learning the specific verse that is linked to each question and answer. 

For more information, resources, and a recap of what we've studied this year, check out the links and info below.