Family Catechesis in the Chavarul

Abstract

Catechetics is an essential aspect of religious education, for it plays a crucial role in nurturing the faith of the believers. Rooted in the ancient traditions and adapted to modern times, catechetics encompasses those teachings, methods, and practices which transmit religious knowledge and foster spiritual growth. Family catechesis is a dynamic and transformative approach to religious education that places the family at the centre of faith formation. It recognizes the vital role of the parents and guardians as the primary educators of their children in matters of faith. In other words, the family is the cradle of the formation of children and the best catechesis is done in the family ambience. The Chavarul of St Kuriakose Elias Chavara, the code of conduct for families, which assists the families to lead a Theo-centric life following a love-centred ethics, can be considered one of the significant catechetical tools. The present article explores the various dimensions of the definition of family given in the Chavarul which embraces all the aspects required for a harmonious family life.