How it works
Each week the congregation will be introduced to one or two new catechism questions and answers, along with a corresponding memory verse. The goal each week is to learn the catechism and verse prior to our Sunday morning gathering, during which it will be discussed in our children’s address.
As to how you decide to learn, well that is entirely up to each family. Feel free to simply include them in your family devotion time or perhaps use them as a talking point around a meal. For those looking for a little extra help we will also be posting recommended readings for each weekday along with a short video and song.
For more information or to access these resources simply select the relevant week below.
Happy catechising!
The what and why of catechesis
The word catechism comes from the Greek κατηχέω (kat-eh-ke-oh) meaning ‘to teach’ or ‘instruct’. It is an oral tradition, of passing on truth through question and answer. In the same way that we might teach our children the times tables or alphabet by rote, catechisms are designed to ground our children in a knowledge of God’s word.
Throughout history, many have seen fit to summarise Christian doctrine into simple, common language that might be easily understood and remembered by those we teach. Whilst the responsibility of teaching children falls to parents, it is nevertheless also a responsibility shared by the covenant community.
For this reason our Session have deemed it good that we introduce a catechism into our weekly meetings, in order to train up our children in the way of the Lord.
The catechism ‘A Catechism for All’ is based upon many of the wonderful catechisms that have preceded it. Although there has been much revision and adjustment throughout we would encourage you to investigate them further should your interest have been piqued. The following list includes those works which most influenced ‘A Catechism for All’.
- The Westminster Shorter Catechism
- The Westminster Larger Catechism
- The Heidelberg Catechism
- A Catechism for Boys and Girls – Carey Publications (Out of Print)
- From the Lips of Little Ones – Jeff Kingswood
- NGPC Catechism – North Geelong Presbyterian Church
- New City Catechism – The Gospel Coalition and Redeemer Presbyterian Church