CCD, a noun, stands for Confraternity of Christian Doctrine. In the context of the Catholic Church, it designates a religious education program, typically for children and teenagers who do not attend Catholic schools. These programs provide instruction in Catholic faith, doctrine, and practices, often leading to the reception of sacraments such as First Communion and Confirmation.
The establishment of systematic religious instruction programs is considered vital for nurturing faith formation and transmitting religious knowledge to younger generations. These initiatives supplement the religious upbringing provided within families, offering a structured learning environment where individuals can deepen their understanding of Catholic teachings, morality, and traditions. Historically, such programs have played a significant role in maintaining religious identity and ensuring the continuity of the faith across generations, especially where formal Catholic schooling is not universally accessible.
