New City Catechism

What is a Catechism?

A catechism (which comes from the Greek word meaning “to instruct”) is a collection of questions and answered designed to teach biblical doctrine. This process has rich roots to the Reformation, where adults and children were equipped to know truth and correct lies. Tim Keller explains,

"At present, the practice of catechesis, particularly among adults, has been almost completely lost. Modern discipleship programs concentrate on practices such as Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and evangelism and can at times be superficial when it comes to doctrine. In contrast, the classic catechisms take students through the Apostles’ Creed, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord’s Prayer—a perfect balance of biblical theology, practical ethics, and spiritual experience."

The New City Catechism

 The New City Catechism is a modern-day resource aimed at helping children and adults alike learn the core doctrines of the Christian faith via 52 questions and answers. It is based on and adapted from major Reformed catechisms such as John Calvin’s Geneva Catechism, the Westminster Shorter and Larger catechisms, and especially the Heidelberg Catechism.

With one Q&A for every week of the year, it's simple to fit it into church calendars and weekly rhythms. This catechism also features a kids version with simplified answers, which is what we use in our service to teach kids. The accompanying website and app include a Bible verse, written commentary, prayer, and song for each Q&A, making it a wonderful resource for parents to continue teachings their kids at home.

For Parents

Want to keep up the catechism at home? Want to learn it yourself? The New City Catechism mobile app makes it easy to take all 52 questions and answers with you wherever you go.

The app pairs each question and answer with a Scripture reading from the ESV, a short prayer, and a devotional commentary written by contemporary pastors, including John Piper, Timothy Keller, and Kevin DeYoung, and historical figures, such as Augustine, John Calvin, Martin Luther, and others.

Best of all, the app also includes kid-friendly songs designed to help children memorize the entire catechism. Seriously, they'll get stuck in your head.