CATHOLIC EASTERN CHURCHES AND THEIR FAITH FORMATION
Keywords:
Catechesis, Eastern Churches, Faith Formation, Inculturation, Sacraments of Initiation, Sui Iuris Churches, Liturgy, MystagogyAbstract
Is there something unique in the heritage of Eastern Sui iuris Churches with regard to their prime ministry of spreading the Christian faith? The fact that the East has the privilege to be the sacred birth place of the Son of God Jesus Christ adds its historical importance in the mystery of redemption. The early Eastern Christian communities gave the Universal Church the first joys of the fruits of salvation. This heritage is faithfully handed over by all the Sui Iuris Churches in the East in an exceptional way. Eastern Churches traditionally perceive Catechesis as the most important ministry that highlights the initial-conversion, formation, deepening of Christ experience, educating the Christian discipleship and an emphasis on the constant conversion in everyday life. Thus, Catechesis is a school
of faith, an initiation and apprenticeship in the entire Christian life. Prominently the Liturgy is an inevitable holy instrument to catechize the faithful in the East. The aspects of Holy Trinity, the Sacraments of Initiation, Liturgical Prayers, Hymns and Scriptural Texts, the dimensions of Silence and Divinization etc., are the steps for efficacious Catechesis in the Eastern Churches. The vitality and richness of the Eastern Churches will always remain as an inspiration for the Universal Church.
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