The norms that can be given with regard to catechesis are many and they vary with the ends to be attained. In comparison with the others, the norms for preparing the faithful for the sacraments have a special importance. These include, for example, norms for the catechumenate of adults, for the sacramental initiation of children, and for the preparation of families for the baptism of their children. To be effective, all such norms should be few in number, simple in character, and set external rather than internal criteria. As is obvious, no particular norm can derogate from the Church’s general laws and common practice without the approval of the Apostolic See.
TheoFonsAd fontes fidei