The Practical Catechist

he Germans during the last two centuries turned their attention in a special manner to the vast field of instruction and education; but in no branch was there more earnest work done than in Catechetics. In numerous cathechetical periodicals and associations, and in a series of catechetical courses men of the greatest talent have devoted all their learning and ability to discuss and test the various methods, and to establish the most fruitful process of teaching Catechism. The movement has not yet met with perfect success; although the views of the weightiest authors now approach unanimity and a number of principles have been adopted as practically reliable, nevertheless it is not an easy matter to reduce them to practice. Of the many who have attempted to do so, only a few have met with satisfactory results. Lacking a thorough understanding of said principles, nearly all have applied them without sufficient care; among these are some who have the reputation of being masters in Catechetics. The Rev. James Nist, parish priest of Birkenhrerdt (Palatinate), easily surpasses all his predecessors, and may be considered by far the best in Catechetics, for he has satisfactorily fulfilled his task. He has, indeed, mastered the true catechetical Method, without allowing it to master him. His catechetical works, therefore, deserve to be recommended as models. Even the older and more experienced Catechists can find much to learn therein, and especially the rare art of becoming little with the little, of accommodating oneself to their mind, heart and will. Wherefore, most willingly complying with the request of the Publisher, I have written this brief Introductory to the English translation of his model work. I recommend especially a thorough study of his treatment of the Sixth Commandment, of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and of the Sacrament of Penance (for the first confession).