Regional Consultation on Activity-Based Catechesis for Children
Regional Commission for Faith Formation – North Region
Date: 23 August 2026
Venue: Bishop’s House, Jalandhar
The Regional Commission for Faith Formation (North Region) held a consultation on activity-based catechesis for children of Classes I–X, focusing on the changing needs of children and the importance of making catechesis more engaging, participatory and faith-oriented.
The consultation observed that the attitudes of parents and children towards catechism have changed, with many children, particularly after Classes X and XII, becoming less regular in attending catechism. Conventional methods are often less attractive to children, while language barriers, particularly the need for YOUCAT in Punjabi, remain a concern. It was emphasised that catechesis should begin within the family, with greater parental encouragement and support.
Key Experiences and Suggestions
Delhi: Conventional methods are becoming less effective. Activity-based approaches such as art and craft, songs, cartoons, games and other creative activities were recommended. Special English Masses for students and greater parental encouragement were also suggested.
Jalandhar: Children are active and respond well when they receive books and encouragement. Suggestions included cartoons, Catechism Day, Gospel dance, All Saints’ Day celebrations with children dressed as saints, and other creative activities.
Chandigarh: YOUCAT has been introduced in some parishes, although youth catechism needs further strengthening. Teachers require greater formation, particularly to address language barriers. Parish visits and teacher-training workshops have also been initiated.
Jammu: Catechesis has largely followed conventional methods, but a transition towards activity-based learning has begun through teacher workshops and training. Parish visits have also been initiated.
The consultation proposed the methodology “Discover – Discuss – Express – Live – Share”, enabling children to discover the faith themselves, discuss it, express it through drama, mime, action, poetry and song, and relate what they learn to their daily lives and share it with others. The use of flashcards, one-word activities, quizzes and object-based learning was also recommended.
Regional-Level Initiatives Proposed
Regional Bible Quiz Competition for children.
A regional YouTube channel/common digital platform with age-appropriate catechetical cartoons and resources.
Regional Catechism Day/Sunday featuring Bible quizzes, Gospel songs and dances, Bible-based drama, drawing, fancy dress, Gospel explanation and other creative activities.
- Greater emphasis on skill-based and activity-oriented catechesis.
- Domestic catechesis, encouraging families and parents to take greater responsibility for transmitting the faith at home.
- Awareness programmes for parents and children.
- Development of cartoons and other digital resources for children.
- Greater use of activity-based, participatory and experiential methods instead of relying primarily on conventional approaches.
The participants also stressed the need for catechetical resources to be child-friendly, visually attractive and easily accessible. It was proposed that regional programmes for children be organised annually, with April suggested as a suitable month.
The participants further proposed activities such as Bible quizzes, biblical plays based on parables, drawing, Gospel singing, creative writing and portraying biblical characters, particularly during the regional programme in April. These activities would help deepen children’s engagement with Scripture and strengthen their faith through creativity and participation.
The consultation concluded with a renewed commitment to make catechesis joyful, creative, participatory and relevant, enabling children not merely to learn the faith, but to discover it, experience it, live it and share it in their daily lives.
Ms. Sandra
Secretary
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