About a year ago, I had the privilege of explaining the Church’s vision for the ministry of catechesis in a series of presentations at a catechist day of reflection. Introducing what I considered the most important talk of the day, I began to explain that catechesis must be both ‘Christocentric’ – centered on Christ – and ‘Trinitarian’ – rooted in the mystery of the Trinity.[i] After the introduction to my presentation, one catechist raised her hand and with wide eyes stated matter-of-factly, ‘I just teach four-year-olds…’

Even if the terminology in magisterial documents concerning catechesis seems intimidating to some, all catechists, whether they teach 4-year-olds or 44-year-olds, need to have a clear understanding of what their mission really is. How can a catechist fulfill his mission otherwise?

John Paul II clearly explained the profound goal of the ministry of catechesis when he said, ‘[T]he definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch but in communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ: only He can lead us to the love of the Father in the Spirit and make us share in the life of the Holy Trinity.’[ii] According to a succinct formula, catechesis aims to lead every human person ‘Through Christ, to the Father, in the Holy Spirit.’[iii]