Baptism Quote by Hughes Oliphant Old
““Whatever the reason, the fact is that there was no widespread catechetical teaching for Christian children. Things were going to change. The growing awareness of the need for Christian education was one of the chief forces behind the desire in the sixteenth century to reform the rite of baptism.””
About This Quote
Source Book: History of Christian Education, 1995
The quote notes that before the Reformation there was little systematic religious instruction for children, and that rising concern for Christian education helped drive baptismal reforms in the 1500s.
In simple terms: Children lacked formal catechism; reformers wanted better religious teaching.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the role of education in religious change.
Themes
religion
education
reform
history
childhood
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- Church schooling
- family religious instruction
- parish catechism
- missionary work
Key Concepts
Catechesis
Renaissance
Liturgical reform
Questions to Reflect On
- How did lack of catechesis affect children's faith?
- What other factors spurred baptismal reform?
A Different Perspective
The impact of broader social forces on religious practice can be complex and uneven.
