Understanding

the Theological Process

OVERVIEW

Theology is a process of interpreting religious experience and revelation. It takes place both on

the individual and communal levels and always happens within a particular culture. Theological

thinking is also a skill that can be learned. Catechists need to understand both the content and

the process of theology in order to assist their students in their growth in faith.

OBJECTIVES

1. To understand the meaning and purposes of theology in the church.

2. To reflect on the relationship between theology and catechesis.

3. To explore the uses of theology by catechists in their teaching.

AIMS

1. The participants will be able to express several definitions of theology and explain the place of theology in the Church.

2. The participants will be able to share an aspect of their faith story and show

how they have theologized on their experience.

3. The participants will be able to describe the process of theological thinking.

4. The participants will be able to identify a theological concept and identify

ways that they might make it accessible to their students.

Working with the Catechism

The following will help you gain a better understanding of the process of theology as stated in

the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

From the Catechism

"To God, all moments of time are present

in their immediacy" (#600).

Read the Catechism

Read #599-#667.

Discuss the Catechism

l. In what ways are we like the early Church

Community?

2. In what ways do we differ?