Introducing the Westminster Catechism

According to the Wikipedia, "A catechism is a summary of Christian religious doctrine. Catechisms are doctrinal manuals often in the form of questions followed by answers to be memorized."

In particular, the Westminster Catechism is a great way to bring up our children in the training and admonition of the Lord (Eph 6:1-4). In addition, The Westminster Confession, upon which the Catechism is based, is said to be by some "the finest summary of The Holy Bible".

Generally speaking, I suggest the following schedule for teaching the Catechism to children:

Catechism	Age
Westminster Catechism for Small Children	2-5 years
Westminster Young Children's Catechism	6-10 years
Westminster Shorter Catechism	11-14 years
Westminster Larger Catechism	15-18 years

However, the Catechism should not only be for todlers and grade school students but also adults who have a new found walk with the Lord. The Westminster Catechism provides a good foundation for sinking roots deep into the soil rich with nutrients needed for growth (see The Parable of the Sower). Do not be ashamed if the Larger Catechism is too much information; some don't find the Lord until the latter years. Others have known the Lord for some time, but never sought to dig deeper beneath the surface.

While the Catechism is not inspired, it is based on the reformed historic Christian faith. Also, don't be alarmed if you find disagreement with some of the concepts. Doing so, will provide the opportunity to seek out what you believe for working out your salvation in the vein of sanctification.