Editorial: Catechesis in a Ministerial Church

Abstract

This editorial introduces the fifth issue of Resonancias Catequéticas, devoted to catechesis in a ministerial Church, and presents the main contributions from the Thirtieth Theology Conference in Aragon, held in Zaragoza in February 2024. Within the context of the synodal process, it emphasizes the importance of communion, participation, and mission, together with the recognition of the diversity of charisms and ministries in the service of evangelization. Drawing on the Directory for Catechesis, it highlights the ecclesial nature of catechetical ministry and its foundation in the baptismal vocation of the People of God. The editorial then introduces the issue's contributions, addressing synodality and the ministerial character of the Church, the reception of the Second Vatican Council among the Spanish laity, ministries in early Christianity, and the institution of the ministry of catechist. Further studies examine catechist formation in the light of a new paradigm of evangelization, the experience of the baptismal catechumenate in the Diocese of Zaragoza, and following Christ as the ultimate horizon of catechesis. Finally, the editorial advocates missionary, community-oriented, and dialogical catechesis that recognizes the shared responsibility of all the baptized and responds to contemporary challenges in the transmission of faith.