Catechesis

Catechesis has the two-fold mission of guiding those at the initial stages of faith to a mature, vibrant faith, and educating them by means of a systematic and intimate knowledge of the person and message of Jesus Christ. The transmission of the Catholic faith, however, entails much more than a simple passing on of facts about God and His laws. Catechesis is ultimately a response that springs from the discovery that God has loved us first, that He seeks us out, and that He desires to share His life with us.

Catechesis directs each person to an intimate communion with Jesus Christ and His Church concretely manifested in a living, explicit, and fruitful profession of faith. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit and well-grounded in the faith, each person courageously draws and invites others to discipleship and communion with Christ.

The Office of Catechesis is the practical means by which the Bishop of our Diocese directs and moderates all the catechetical activities of the Diocese of Paterson. The office falls under the direction of the Office of Evangelization and is responsible for developing and implementing a unified vision and direction for catechesis, for organizing and supporting programs and structures which directly affect catechesis, and for providing solid formation for catechists. The oversight of religious education in all the parishes, which this office exercises, also ensures the highest quality of formation for both adults and younger generations.

Visit the Office of Catechesis webpage by clicking here.