RCL Benziger Catalog 2017 | Page 5

RCL Benziger products and resources are grounded in solid catechetical methodology recommended by the General Directory for Catechesis :

1

Emphasizes God ’ s loving initiative and the person ’ s free response
God lovingly creates us and first invites us to freely respond to him in faith and love .

2

Accepts the progressive nature of Revelation , the transcendence and mysterious nature of the Word of God , and the Word ’ s adaptation to different persons and cultures
Revelation is God making himself and his divine plan of Salvation known to us . God speaks to us through Creation , through people , and through his Word in the Sacred Scriptures . God is most fully revealed through his only Son , Jesus Christ , the Word of God . God ’ s Revelation is intended for all people and cultures of every time and place .

3

Recognizes that the centrality of Jesus Christ is the ultimate communication of God
God ’ s Revelation is fulfilled in Jesus . Through Jesus ’ actions and words , we come to know God . Teaching and learning about Jesus is the heart of all catechesis .

4

Values the community experience of faith
Christ calls us together in the community of the Church . When we come to know Jesus , we do so through his Church and her doctrines , which enable us to know what Catholics believe , celebrate , live , and pray .

5

Is rooted in interpersonal relations and makes its own the process of dialogue
Catechists help children to grow in faith by building community among our students . We provide opportunities for interaction and discussion through diverse activities that enable children to connect faith and their life experience . The “ dialogue ” of catechesis is an ongoing conversation among the catechist , students , and parents . We support parents , recognizing that faith is nurtured and lived at home on a daily basis .

6

Utilizes signs , which link words and deeds , teaching and experience
When catechesis is effective , everything we learn about our faith prompts a response . As faith is nurtured , we find God in our human experience .

7

Draws its power of truth , and its task to bear witness to the truth , from the Holy Spirit
Catechesis happens through the gift and action of the Holy Spirit . Saints and holy people give witness to belief in Jesus , model discipleship for us , and inspire us to respond in faith .
Adapted from the GDC , # 143
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