International research shows that the curricula of Catholic secondary schools are increasingly becoming dominated by the pressures of conforming to the requirements of nation states. These requirements are generally expressed in economic and utilitarian terms and evaluated by criteria of measurable outputs. As a result of these pressures, Catholic…

Describes how coordinators/directors of religious education (DREs) have changed with respect to their characteristics and functions since 1970. Concludes with three future challenges for DREs: maintaining professionalism, developing curriculum, and using the K-12 parish structure. (LWL)

Narrates the ninety years of leadership involved in the Department of Chief Administrators of Catholic Education (CACE). Outlines the historical development and various leaders of CACE in three parts: section period from 1908-1935, department period from 1936-1971, and CACE period from 1972-present. (VWC)

Assesses the current status of catechesis and religious education in Australian Catholic schools and parishes. Notes recent efforts and offers suggestions for improving religious education in those settings. (DMM)

Traces changes in the content and instructional methods of catechesis from the early centuries of Christianity, when the focus was on evangelization, to the twentieth century. Reviews the influences of developmental psychology and social consciousness on modern catechetical renewal. Considers the educational needs of the twenty-first century. (DMM)

Presents a tribute to the late Bishop Francis W. Howard for his many contributions to Catholic education. Presents insights into his character: his desire to spread the Catholic faith through Catholic education, his priestly involvements, his keen social awareness, and his work with the National Catholic Educational Association. (VWC)

Uses the Archdiocese of New York to illustrate the Catholic Church's successes and failures in religious education. Discusses the archdiocese's efforts to reduce widespread ignorance of the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, including a community needs assessment and a weekend Synod. Highlights religious education needs. (DMM)

Argues that Catholic educators must address the issue of homosexuality with students and reviews Church doctrine on key issues. Discusses definitions of homosexuality, the Church's view that homosexual activity is wrong, and its condemnation of homophobia. Provides practical guidelines for Catholic educators. (20 citations) (AJL)

Explores changes that have taken place in the Catholic Church's understanding of the concepts of "religion" and "faith." Discusses the effects of these changes on the ministry of religious education. Makes suggestions concerning the development of a suitable environment and atmosphere for approaching religious education within…

Provides a personal account of the experiences of an American nun while teaching at Fu Jen Catholic University in Taiwan. Explains the Taiwanese educational system and the role of Catholic education within it. (CBC)

Examines the implications of the bishops' pastoral, "The Challenge of Peace," for Catholic schools and analyzes issues and problems in responding to the pastoral. Recommends clarification of philosophical positions, development of archdiocesan guidelines, varied teacher in-service opportunities, and global concept development. (DMM)

Suggests that religion teachers develop mentor-friend relationships with their students, as characterized by being available to students outside of class, sharing oneself in a personal way, expressing interest in the student's life, and sharing faith. Discusses acceptable and unacceptable types of relationships. (DMM)

Presents research and survey conclusions on the future of Catholic schools. Addresses the main trends in Catholic schools, priorities for Catholic education, identifying characteristics of future Catholic schools, main problems to be faced, and the role of priests, religion, and laity in the schools. (DMM)

An interview with Father Albert McBride, formerly of the National Catholic Educational Association's National Forum for Religious Educators. Father McBride gives his opinion on such issues as the problems and future of religious education and trends in the Catholic Church. (SJL)

Seven catechetical theorists and practitioners (Alfred McBride, Berard L. Marthaler, Dan Keller, Mary Ann Johnston, Eileen Loughran, Matt Hayes, and Mike Carotta) discuss the significance of the new "Cathechism of the Catholic Church," which replaces the "Cathechism of the Council of Trent" -- the official catechism of the…