Office of Catholic Schools

11 The purpose of the framework This f ramework arose in the context of revising the religion standards for the Archdiocese of Denver. Theology and catechesis courses must do more than communicate content. As noted by John Paul II, "the definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch but in communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ: only He can lead us to the love of the Father in the Spirit and make us share in the life of the Holy Trinity" (Catechesi Tradendae, 5). Therefore, these courses must seek to draw stu - dents into dynamic relationship with the Trinity and to live out the content they are learning ever more deeply. Catechesis and theology provide an integrating source for the Christian school, giving the clearest perspective on mission and the unity of the actions of the school within it. The revision of this content area brings with it the recognition that the process of formation in the Christian life must reach all aspects of the school's life within the context of the Church's mission to form disciples. Although there are many obstacles to this mission—an increasingly secular culture, difficulties within the family, the dominance of technology, and the lack of a vibrant life of faith— bringing students to a committed and living faith provides hope for the future of Catholic education. Statistics show that simply attending a Catholic school, does not produce mature disciples unless there is the support of adult of mentorship and experiences to internalize faith. Catholic schools do many good things to build faith, but these things need support in stronger vision and plan for disci - pleship. This f ramework seeks to provide a clearer shared vision on the nature of discipleship for the

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