Since its beginnings Christianity has shown a close and direct connection with liturgy and catechesis. Cyril of Jerusalem is a privileged witness to their mutual relation in the ancient Church. The paper seeks to show the liturgical and theological depth of his catechetical heritage in four points: Cyril of Jerusalem – witness to the baptismal catechesis of the fourth century; three dimensions of the baptismal catechesis of Cyril of Jerusalem (dogmatic, moral and sacramental one); typological interpretation of the Scriptures, mystagogical catechesis of Cyril of Jerusalem and their relation with liturgy. In the conclusion we draw readers’ attention to a sacramental perspective of the Christian vision of the history of Catechesis of Cyril of Jerusalem that remains valid for contemporary Christians.
An analysis of documents of the local synods in fifteen Polish dioceses in Poland (1967-1994) gives an outline of what the preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation is to look like in the case of 11 to 15 year-old teenagers. The catechetical preparation includes introduction to the liturgy of the Sacrament, the dialogue of the faith, the Christian maturity and the witnessing of the faith. There is a number of special service scenarios. It is crucial for the candidates to accept personally what results from the Baptism, that is the active participation in the life of the Church. Certain liturgical celebrations, retreats and the family prayer are particularly recommended in this time of preparation. The teenagers and adults with disabilities may undergo their pre-Confirmation program in the institutions that take care of them in partnership with parents or individuals in particular parishes. The immediate preparation in special circumstances (mature adults, engaged couples) may be arranged together with the youth groups or according to the special programs. There is also a custom to choose a name of a patron saint for the Confirmation. The parents, the sponsors and the parish community should accompany candidates by prayer, the formation and the catechesis for the adults. The Confirmation sponsors should be the godparents, the biological parents or other persons of the appropriate standing with the Church.
JavaScript is turned off in your web browser. Turn it on to take full advantage of this site, then refresh the page.