One of the most consequential documents of John Paul II’s pontificate for the Church in Africa was one that does not get much attention among his great contributions in the United States. It’s Catechesi Tradendae.

While it helped launch the movement toward a universal Catechism that has had a tremendous impact on the transmission of the faith in all parts of the world, in Africa it’s section on catechetical institutes has been enormous. Reflecting on how this pivotal text has transformed catechetical instruction, particularly in mission territories like Africa, is fitting.

The document’s impact resonates deeply with those who, like me, grew up in Nigeria during its implementation. While my parents laid the foundation of my faith, it was the dedicated catechists who built upon it—those patient souls who not only taught the faith but also advocated for us before our pastors, even when we missed assignment deadlines.

From 1979 to 2025, the mission of catechesis in Africa and throughout the global Church has evolved significantly. Pope Francis’s recent declaration Antiquum Ministerium, which formally establishes the ministry of catechist, builds upon John Paul II’s vision, creating new possibilities for the future of faith formation.

One of the most prescient recommendations in “Catechesi Tradendae” appears near its conclusion, where Pope John Paul II addresses the crucial need for Training Institutes. In Section 71, he writes: “We must be grateful to the Lord for this contribution by the laity, but it is also a challenge to our responsibility as pastors since these lay catechists must be carefully prepared for what is, if not a formally instituted ministry, at the very least a function of great importance in the Church.”

The Pope’s vision extended beyond mere structural recommendations. He understood that the strength of the Gospel lies in the faith of its believers—a faith transmitted through careful catechesis and the dedicated work of catechists, deacons, priests, bishops, and the Holy Father himself. His words about cooperation between Churches remain particularly relevant: “Here also the material aid provided by the richer Churches to their poor sisters can show the greatest effectiveness, for what better assistance can one Church give to another than to help it to grow as a Church with its strength?”

This spirit of mutual support finds practical expression today through organizations like The Pontifical Mission Societies in the United States, which continue to provide vital support for catechetical formation in mission territories. Their work embodies Paul VI’s vision of evangelizers as “people who are mature in faith and capable of finding a meeting point beyond the real tensions, thanks to a shared, sincere, and disinterested search for truth.”

Catholics are invited to consider supporting these training institutes in mission countries. Such support honors both the legacy of John Paul II’s visionary document and ensures its continued implementation in forming the next generation of Catholic faithful.

Through such solidarity, we fulfill the document’s ultimate vision: helping local Churches grow in strength and authenticity while preserving the universal nature of Catholic faith formation. In doing so, we participate in the ongoing mission of catechesis—as essential now as in the time of the apostles

To support catechetical formation in mission territories, visit pontificalmissions.org or contact your diocesan Pontifical Missions Society office. Every gift, no matter the size, helps train the catechists who will shape the future of the Catholic Church in mission lands.

** The Author is a Priest of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo, Nigeria, Serving Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Elmsford, Archdiocese of New York.