A
catechism (; from , to teach orally), is a summary or exposition of
doctrine and served as a learning introduction to the
Sacraments traditionally used in
catechesis, or
Christian religious teaching of children and adult converts. Catechisms are doctrinal manuals - often in the form of questions followed by answers to be memorised - a format that has been used in non-religious or
secular contexts as well. The term
catechumen refers to the designated recipient of the catechetical work or instruction. In the
Catholic Church, catachumens were usually placed separately during
Holy Mass from those who received the
Sacrament of
Baptism.
