“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Matthew 28: 19-20
When we talk about Religious Education or Faith Formation, we are talking about catechesis. “Catechesis is an education in the faith of children, young people, and adults which includes especially the teaching of Christian doctrine imparted, generally speaking, in an organic and systematic way, with a view to initiating the hearers into the fullness of Christian life.”
On Catechesis in Our Time (Catechesi Tradendae), no. 18
The Diocese of Scranton has issued Elementary Guidelines for Religious Education in Parishes and Schools. Rooted in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, it celebrates the Creed the Seven Sacraments, Prayer and the Ten Commandments as the four elements that make up the depository of faith. Following the Catechism. it seeks to encourage and inform a full and active faith in young and old alike.
The Pastor or Parish Life Coordinator of each parish, with the assistance of a Director or Coordinator of Religious Education and catechists, organize the parish program to facilitate this catechesis. All elementary school children who do not attend a Catholic school should be enrolled in a parish religious education program.
Elementary Guidelines for Religious Education in Parishes and Schools