Why do we need the Catechism of the Catholic Church? Why read it?

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Much of the Catechism’s content finds it source in the documents which developed the doctrine of faith from the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council. By putting forth the Catechism, the Church answers in part the call of Pope Paul VI, to a new evangelization. As the church goes forth to make “disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19) [1], this may be the first word of ecumenical dialogue as the church is “divinely sent to the nations of the world to be unto them ‘a universal sacrament of salvation’, (1) the Church, driven by the inner necessity of her own catholicity, and obeying the mandate of her Founder (cf. Mark 16:16), strives ever to proclaim the Gospel to all men.” [2].

The Catechism is a necessary work. The Catechism is intended to be at the least, a guide to concisely and effectively passing on the faith. It brings forth the truth of our faith “for a catechesis renewed at the living sources of the faith” [3]. More importantly, this catechism addresses the questions of our time. The catechism refers to and answers the concerns and needs of the whole modern world, not just the Catholic Church but also those of Christians and non-Christians alike. It makes clear the doctrine of the Catholic faith by presenting “the history and tradition of the Church's doctrine in a complete yet summary way. It draws heavily from Scripture, the Church Fathers, liturgical texts, and the lives and writings of the saints to illustrate the doctrinal content.” [4]. Thus, it makes the roots of our faith accessible to all in a universal way.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church disparages prejudices against the Church and its members, by explaining Catholic teaching on controversial issues and legitimate concerns. Many issues and concerns, such as weapons of mass destruction, have been recently manifested and were therefore not addressed by any previous council of the Church nor the New Testament. It, therefore, allows any hesitation about accepting the Catholic faith to be either refined or refuted before one opposed or previously opposed brings forth their argument. It thereby creates a dialogue with those not in communion with the Church, allowing for greater openness to the faith. This dialogue also addresses society and is the mouthpiece of the Church in the culture. It is necessary to one-fold more from this perspective as well.

The Catechism was indeed much needed and definitely allows for better precision in passing on the faith. I think we all understand the significance of the Second Vatican Council in the creation of the universal Catechism. The Catechism feeds heavily upon the doctrine developed and put forth by the Council.  In light of this, it is easy to see that God's providence brought us the Catechism of the Catholic Church at the time he chose, from our perspective not early, but definitely when we needed it. I am confident, therefore, that its creation was inspired, guided by the Holy Spirit to lead the souls of many down the narrow path. God lets us participate in the work of the Holy Spirit in this way, we know very well God can do it on his own but he works through us by the means of the Catechism. We are given the Catechism to help us accomplish God's Will in the lives of others and ourselves. It does so by giving us resources to, "Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame.[5]

Click any of the following links to access the Catechism on the USCCB website (probably best digital version), the Vatican Website, and/or buy one.

FN:

  1. 1The New American Bible, Revised Edition (Washington, DC: Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, 2011), at United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, www.usccb.org.
  2. Pope Paul VI, Decree on the Mission Activity of the Church _Ad gentes_,(1966), §1.
  3. Pope John Paul II, Apostolic Constitution on the Publication of the Catechism _Fidei Depositum_, (New York Doubleday, 1994),3
  4. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, _Frequently Asked Questions about the Catechism of the Catholic Church_, http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catechism/catechism-of-the-catholic-church/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-catechism-of-the-catholic-church.cfm, Accessed 1/15/2020.
  5. 1 Peter 3:15-16


I am a Theology major attending Holy Apostles College and Seminary. I am a Knight of Columbus and a Newman Ambassador for Pius XII Newman Center.

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