Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
CATECHETICAL SYNTHESIS
A summary of Catholic doctrine that serves as the framework for instructing the people in the essentials of faith. Numerous and varied syntheses have been in use since early patristic times. One modern summary builds on the structure of faith, hope, charity, and the sacraments, as follows:
I. FAITH
1. As to the human race
Its first beginning
Its last end
2. The belief
In God the Father
In Jesus Christ
In the Holy Spirit
In the Holy Catholic Church
II. HOPE
1. The Our Father
The Seven Blessings to be hoped for and prayed for
2. The Hail Mary
Assistance of the Blessed Virgin, of the angels and saints
III. CHARITY
1. The Commandments of God and of the Church
2. The Beatitudes
IV. THE SACRAMENTS
Seven great means of grace corresponding to the principal needs of the supernatural life:
1. Birth through baptism
2. Growth through confirmation
3. Nourishment through the Eucharist
4. Medicine through penance.
5. Journey of the soul through anointing
6. Priesthood through ordination
7. Christian family through matrimony
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
