Concluding Remarks by Archbishop Hughes
As we conclude this graced day, I would like to make some concluding remarks in an effort to bring together the purpose of this day. It is my hope that you will go home convinced that all catechesis needs to be engaged in as a special moment in evangelization. That means that catechesis has as its ultimate aim recognizing that God has revealed himself and offers himself to us as self-gift. Catechesis respects this divine methodology and invites a personal response in faith to the Lord Jesus. Catechesis, then, is an invitation to meet Christ, to be transformed by him, enter into a deeper communion with our Triune God and be inspired to walk in the way of the truth.
Catechesis should also be organic. This means that there is a body of doctrine and a hierarchy of truths. Certain truths are necessary to believe for salvation. Others less necessary, by nevertheless still part of the organic whole. There is an interrelationship of all doctrine. We can go through life with an amputation but not experience the fullness of what our bodily experience in this world provides. So it is with regard to the body of doctrine.
Catechesis is intended to be systematic. Although God has revealed himself historically in stages, it is very important in the exposition of the faith that we not only pay attention to the way in which God revealed himself, but also ehlp people to experience the logical exposition of this revelation and understand the interrelationship of the truths of faith to one another. This also means that there should be a comprehensive treatment of the truths of revelation respecting the integrity of that revelation.
Catechesis should always be authoritative. This does not mean that the message is to be delivered in an authoritarian tone. Rather, it means that the message is guaranteed as true because it is faithful to the magisterial teaching and interpretation of revelation which the Church provides.
Finally, catechesis is to be pastoral. It always takes into consideration human experience. The catechist is a witness to faith who helps others to relate revelation and the experience of ordinary life. God grant that this day has helped us all to appreciate more fully how the National Directory for Catechesis helps us to realize these goals. May God bless your ministry abundantly.