Abstract

Many parents and teachers are impressed by the disinterest in faith and the inadequate response of the believing community. However, the growth of faith is a complex process in which the family plays an important role. This article shows the catechesis in the family, exposing not only the positive side but also the negative one. In these modern times, we have to take into account new models and structures of the family. More and more often, the family becomes nuclear, one generation, one parent and the number of children is getting smaller. The ecclesial dimension is also neglected because it raises questions especially on three issues: the value and meaning of the sacraments, the role of Christian tradition and the merits of morality. Despite the changes to the family, both internal and external, it is still a special place where everybody may experience authentic love, acceptance and understanding. Only the family creates an original intimate atmosphere, in which every member may be an individual and discover himself/hherself. The parents cannot leave aside their own faith and life: many things are shared with the children through the simple events of everyday life. In order to support the family catechesis, the parents should keep in touchh with the Church, which offers sacraments, God’s Word and pastoral care. Every family is different so there can be no one model of the family catechesis but pluralism of models. Yet undoubtedly catechesis in te family provides a new way for families who share the common task in religious education i.e. to help their children live in faith and communicate with people and God.