A handful of folks have suggested that we ought to post a list of the catechetical questions we have improvised for Deacon’s initial theological exercises. Finally, we’re complying with this request. And we do so gladly. We also hope that folks might have some suggestions as to how better to order the questions, and how the wording might be made more appropriate for the task. Now that our family church boasts two young catachumens, its time we subject our curriculum to the scrutiny of our peers and betters.
The questions are listed more or less in the order we came up with them. When he was about 18 mos. or so, we started to mix up the order, and to concentrate especially on the newest questions. It also helps–in the unlikely event of toddler boredom–if mom and papa probe one another with these questions. Faking perplexity and confusion may provoke a bit of healthy competition to bring your young catechumen back into orbit.
Question 1: Deacon, who made you?
Answer 1: God!
Q2: What else did God make?
A2: All things.
Q3: Why did God make you and all things?
A3: [For his] glory!
Q4: Who’s God’s Son?
A4: Jesus.
Q5: Who’s your helper?
A5: Holy Ghost.
Q6: Where do we read about Jesus?
A6: Bible.
Q7: Where do we go on the Lord’s Day?
A7: Church.
Q8: Are there more gods than one?
A8: No!
Q9: How many persons are there in the Godhead?
A9: Three.
Q10: Where is God?
A10: Everywhere.
Q11: Can you see God?
A11: No.
Q12: Can God see you?
A12: Always!
Q13: Who died on the cross?
A13: Jesus.
Q14: Why did Jesus die?
A14: Our sins.
Q15: What did Jesus do on the third day?
A15: Rose again!
(And then, just to show off and look super pious and theologically astute in front of your friends…)
Q16: What is the instrumental cause of justification?
A16: Faith!
