Catechism, << KAT uh kihz uhm, >> is a summary of basic Christian doctrine used for religious instruction. A catechism is typically presented as a series of questions and answers. The type of written catechisms common today first came into widespread use in the 1500’s, though similar teaching manuals had been used earlier.
There are several major catechisms. The Large and Small Catechisms (1529) of Martin Luther are used in Lutheran churches. The Geneva Catechism (1542), the second catechism written by John Calvin, and the Heidelberg Catechism (1563) are used in Reformed churches. The influential Tridentine Catechism was issued by the Roman Catholic Church in 1566. Today, the Roman Catholic Church uses a variety of catechisms. The Shorter and the Larger Westminster Catechisms (1647) are used in Presbyterian churches. Catechisms found in Books of Common Prayer are used in churches of the Anglican Communion. Today, most catechism instruction attempts to help individuals gain deeper insight into their Christian beliefs rather than simply memorize questions and answers about their religion.
