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Catechisms are religious user manuals outlining basic doctrine and beliefs of a religious sect. They are available in religious bookstores and churches, and are organized in a question-and-answer format. The material varies depending on the sect, and is used by converts and young people to learn about their chosen sect. It’s best to ask a church leader which catechism to follow.
A catechism is a kind of religious user manual, outlining the basic doctrine and beliefs of a religious sect. Catechisms are used more widely by members of the Christian faith, and the term is particularly associated with Catholic catechism, although numerous branches of Christianity have catechisms. As a general rule, catechisms are available in religious bookstores, along with churches, and can also be ordered through various book suppliers.
Traditional catechisms are organized in a question-and-answer format, representing how Christianity was originally spread and taught. The questions are asked by an instructor or a religious authority, while the answers are given by the students. In catechism classes, students memorize the text of the catechism and discuss it with the teachers, using the questions and answers as a starting point to delve into the nature of faith.
The term “catechism” comes from a Greek word which means “to teach with the word”. In the early days of Christianity, disciples of Christ spread throughout the ancient world and used a question-and-answer method of teaching, thus spreading Christianity. A rote format was often followed to ensure that people could memorize the basic tenets of Christianity and repeat them, allowing Christianity to remain clearly defined even as the religion got bigger and bigger.
The material in a catechism varies, depending on the sect under discussion. As a general rule, only information deemed basic, fundamental, and truthful is included in the catechism, and the text does not include discussion of religious debates and controversies. The goal is to clearly expound the cult’s doctrine and create an authority that followers can rely on.
Converts to Christianity often study the catechism to learn more about their chosen sect and to create a starting point for discussion with mentors. Young people also study catechism, generally attending catechism lessons or Sunday school to talk about their religion. Even people imbued with religious faith can sometimes have recourse to the catechism, finding in it a useful authority and a source of comfort.
For people who are just starting to learn about a Christian sect, it’s generally a good idea to ask a church leader what catechism the church follows. Even within branches of Christianity, different catechisms are preferred, and it’s generally a good idea to read the same catechism that your church follows.
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