Since the 1970’s, the catechetical documents of the Church have consistently stated that “The catechesis of adults is the principal form of catechesis, because it is addressed to persons who have the greatest responsibilities and the capacity to live the Christian message in its fully developed form” (Catechesi Tradendae quoted in the National Directory for Catechesis, 48A).
The Diocesan Office for Religious Education and the Diocesan Board for Religious Education have sponsored a number of programs to support the development of Parish Adult Faith Formation Committees that have the responsibility to provide a wide spectrum of adult learning opportunities. As we move into the future, we will expand our opportunities to assist adults grow in appreciating the depth and breadth of our wonderful faith and how it supports, enlivens and nourish them on their journey as disciples.
Important Resources for Adult Faith Formation (all available from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops), USCCB
- Catechism of the Catholic Church
- Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church
- The United States Catholic Catechism for Adults — an adaptation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church designed for adults in the United States
- Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us — Pastoral Plan for Adult Religious Education from the US bishops.
- The National Directory for Catechesis — sets forth the pastoral and theological principals guiding catechesis. It is for those who have responsibility for catechesis in the dioceses, parishes and schools in the United States.