Introduction to the Catechism of the Catholic Church
CCP 201
COURSE SYLLABUS
University of Sacramento
Chico Branch Campus

Dates / Times
Term: Fall 2007
Class Dates: Wednesday, September 5 – Dec 12
Class Time: 6:00 – 9:10 PM

Instructors
Fr. Blaise Berg, STD, Deacon Ray Helgeson, MA, Joseph Hollcraft, MA.

Course Description – 3 credits
Introductory course on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Students will be introduced to the content, origins and history of the classic catechesis as found in Scripture and the Tradition of the Church. The course will focus primarily on the four pillars in the Catechism: the Creed, Liturgy, Life in Christ, and Prayer with an emphasis on passing on, or teaching these truths to others.

Course Objectives
The course will provide an understanding of the structure and content of the Catechism. An examination of each of the four pillars of the Catechism will be considered in some detail. An introduction to using the Catechism as a resource for teaching will also be presented. The common or “golden” threads of faith, Jesus Christ, the dignity of the human person and the nature of the Church will also be studied.

Course Requirements
Thorough preparation of assigned readings to enable informed, reflective participation in class; one (1) six page paper; one (1) in class 10-12 minute presentation.

Required Textbooks
Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2 nd Edition
Catholic Bible Suggested trans. Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition, or New American Version
On Catechesis in our Time (Catechesi Tradendae) John Paul II. Apostolic Exhortation, 1979.[Available on line].

Grading Policy
Grade is Pass / Fail. The following are required for a passing grade:
  Class participation 
  One paper
  Individual Class presentation
  Attendance (See attendance policy below)

Required reading between classes
Approximately 4—5 hours per week will be required for the reading assignments and homework outside of class. The reading is essential in order to come to appreciate the beauty and scope of the Catechism and will be necessary in order to enter into class discussion.  

Detail for Paper
One paper is due as indicated in the course outline below. The paper to be 6 pages in length, double spaced, standard margins (1”). Include full name and topic / doctrine on first page. First 3 pages to cover the content of the topic: e.g., its position within the Deposit of Faith; a systematic presentation of the salient points of the topic; possible Scripture passages relating to, or supporting the topic / doctrine; possible common errors surrounding the doctrine, etc. The second 3 pages of the paper to include your personal reflections on the topic: e.g., how this teaching / doctrine has impacted your life; how it might be helpful in teaching others; how you foresee it being helpful in your family, parish or work settings.

Individual Class Presentations
Each student will make a short 10-12 minute presentation toward the end of the semester. This will be an excellent opportunity to make a presentation in front of the class in a controlled environment including positive feedback and training. The Ecclesial method will be used (explained during the course) and a short evaluation will follow each presentation.

Attendance Policy (adapted from University catalog)
Regular class attendance will be taken for each period of educational training. To successfully complete a course and to receive credit, students must attend at minimum 90% of lectures, classes, and any required activities. Special exceptions to this policy may be made. The student is solely responsible for making up all work missed due to absence.

 Basic catechist certification
This course, taken in its entirety, provides the content requirement for basic certification credit and is approved by the Diocese of Sacramento (renewal certification credit will also be applicable).  

Course Outline

Notice: This outline will be supplemented with handouts, other outside readings and website references by the individual instructors.

WEEK 1 – September 5
      Introduction – Syllabus
      Overview of Catechetics
      Catechism – Part One: The Profession of Faith Foundations

WEEK 2 – Sept. 12
      Part One: The Profession of Faith

WEEK 3 – Sept. 19
      Part One: The Profession of Faith

WEEK 4 – Sept. 26
      Part Two: Celebration of the Christian Mystery Foundations

WEEK 5 – October 3
      Part Two: Celebration of the Christian Mystery Sacraments

WEEK 6 – Oct. 10
      Part Two: Celebration of the Christian Mystery Sacraments II
      Sign up for Student Presentations

WEEK 7 – Oct. 17
      Part Three: Life in Christ Foundations

WEEK 8 – Oct. 24
      Part Three: Life in Christ Foundations II

WEEK 9 – Oct. 31
      Part Three: Life in Christ Commandments

WEEK 10 – Nov. 7
      Part Four: Christian Prayer Foundations

WEEK 11 – Nov. 14
      Part Four: Christian Prayer

Thanksgiving Break – November 19-23

WEEK 12 – Nov. 28
      Student Presentations

WEEK 13 – Dec. 5
      Student Presentations

WEEK 14 – Dec. 12
      Student Presentations

Note: The in-class presentations are designed to give the students the opportunity to give a short, 10 minute, presentation on an article of the faith, an aspect of the liturgy, or some other topic from the Catechism.