CCBI Commission for Faith Formation Issues Guidelines for Catechetical Ministry

Benaulim, GOA — The CCBI Commission for Faith Formation has issued fresh pastoral directives to all clergy, religious, and catechists, calling for a comprehensive restructuring of faith formation across the country. The new guidelines mark a significant shift toward lifelong catechesis, emphasizing that faith education is the shared responsibility of all baptized Catholics in a synodal Church.

Echoing the words of Pope St. John Paul II, the Commission stressed that faith formation must be a "womb to tomb" journey, accessible to parishioners of all ages, rather than being limited solely to children.

To ensure a spiritually enriching 2026, the CCBI Commission for Faith Formation has outlined strict priorities across three main levels of pastoral care:

Revamping Children's Catechesis

Parishes have been instructed to formally inaugurate the Catechetical Year with a special commissioning of catechists. Key directives for children include:

• Mandatory Timeframes: Sunday catechism sessions must run for a minimum of one hour.
• Parental Involvement: A mandatory half-hour orientation for parents must be conducted before classes begin, reminding them of their primary role in their children's faith journey.
• Life-Oriented Learning: Lessons are to be made practical, integrating family catechesis, environmental awareness, and everyday moral values.
• Clergy Engagement: Parish Priests and their assistants are directed to make regular visits to classrooms to support students and teachers.
• Faith Formation Day: Parishes are asked to plan a special celebration in November to coincide with the November 4th feast of St. Charles Borromeo, the patron saint of catechists.

Engaging the Youth

The directives call for structured study sessions for the youth, heavily incorporating the YOUCAT (Youth Catechism). These sessions will be integrated into all parish youth groups, including YCS and ICYM, in collaboration with the Youth and Faith Formation Commissions. Furthermore, parishes are instructed to organize a dedicated Youth Mass once a month, supplemented by youth-specific retreats and Adoration.

Empowering Adult Believers

Addressing the often-overlooked area of adult faith formation, the directives mandate continuous education for Parish Pastoral Councils (PPC), women’s groups, and adult pious associations. Topics will be highly relevant to adult life, focusing on the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), family catechesis, environmental responsibility, and living out the Commandments in the modern world.

The Commission's directives concluded with a heartfelt message of gratitude to all those involved in this vital ministry, invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit for a fruitful and transformative year ahead.