Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Sydney (Fides Service) - The new Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church is “concise and valuable” said Bishop Kevin Manning of Paramatta diocese in Australia where the English version of the book will soon be available
The new Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church was approved by Pope Benedict XVI on 28 June this year. The Compendium is a follow-up to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, promulgated by Pope John Paul II in 1992.
Bishop Manning praised the Compendium’s dialogue format reflecting the ancient teaching device of question and answer and said. "By reproducing an imaginary dialogue between master and disciple, through a series of incisive questions, readers are invited to discover ever-new aspects of their faith."
“By focussing on the essentials, the dialogue format helps the reader to grasp the contents and, possibly, to memorise them. The brevity of the answers fosters the essential synthesis and clarity of what is being communicated. Bishop Manning remarked. And with regard to the images which embellish the volume he said they were “drawn from the rich treasury of Christian iconography” adding that “at times image speak more than words”.
The Catholic Bishops of Australia recommend the Compendium to all Catholics, families and communities. It can be helpful they say when doubts arise with regard to matters of faith and doctrine. However they underline that a book can never be a substitute for direct contact with the Christian community and clergy.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 8/9/2005 righe 25 parole 347)
