Citing the Catechism: A Simple Explanation
The Catechism of the Catholic Church is a comprehensive guide to Catholic doctrine, a vast resource for understanding the faith. But how do you properly cite it when using its teachings in your own writing, whether for academic papers, theological reflections, or simply sharing your faith with others? This guide provides a simple explanation of how to cite the Catechism, covering different citation styles and offering practical examples.
Why Cite the Catechism?
Before delving into the specifics of citation, it's important to understand why citing the Catechism is crucial. Properly citing your sources demonstrates academic integrity, avoids plagiarism, and allows readers to easily verify your claims and delve deeper into the subject matter. It strengthens your argument by grounding it in authoritative theological texts, enhancing the credibility and trustworthiness of your work.
Common Citation Styles for the Catechism
Different academic disciplines and institutions often favor specific citation styles (e.g., MLA, Chicago, Turabian). While the specific formatting varies, the core information remains the same: you need to identify the Catechism and the specific paragraph number.
Example: MLA Style
Let's say you want to cite paragraph 227 of the Catechism, which discusses the dignity of the human person. In MLA style, you might write:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the inherent dignity of every human being (CCC 227).
Here, "CCC" is a common abbreviation for Catechism of the Catholic Church. The number 227 refers to the specific paragraph. You would include a full bibliographic entry for the Catechism in your Works Cited page. A common format for this would be:
Catechism of the Catholic Church. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, 1994.
Example: Chicago Style (Notes and Bibliography)
In Chicago style (Notes and Bibliography), a footnote or endnote would look like this:
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 227.
The bibliography entry would be similar to the MLA example above.
Example: Chicago Style (Author-Date)
In Chicago's Author-Date style, you'd use a parenthetical citation in the text:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the inherent dignity of every human being (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops 1994, 227).
And again, you'd have a bibliography entry.
What if I'm quoting directly from the Catechism?
When you directly quote from the Catechism, you must enclose the quoted text in quotation marks and include the paragraph number in your citation. For example (using MLA style):
The Catechism states, “Human life is sacred because from its beginning it involves the creative action of God” (CCC 2258).
Remember to always consult your specific style guide for the precise formatting rules.
How to Find the Correct Paragraph Number
The Catechism's paragraph numbers are sequential and clearly marked in both the print and digital versions. Use the table of contents or an online search function (if using a digital version) to locate the specific teaching you are referencing. Pay close attention to the paragraph number to ensure accurate citation.
What if the Catechism isn't my only source?
If your work relies on multiple sources, be sure to cite them all appropriately according to your chosen style guide. The Catechism should be integrated seamlessly with your other sources, maintaining consistency in your citation style throughout your writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cite the Catechism online?
The principles remain the same for online citations. You still need the paragraph number. Some style guides may require additional information like the URL, but the core citation of (CCC 227), for instance, would remain consistent. Always check your specific style guide for the most up-to-date recommendations.
Is it okay to paraphrase the Catechism?
Paraphrasing is acceptable, but it still requires citation. Avoid simply changing a few words; ensure you've fully grasped the meaning before rewording and remember to cite the relevant paragraph number.
Where can I find a complete copy of the Catechism?
You can find the Catechism of the Catholic Church through various online sources and Catholic bookstores. However, this guide does not provide specific links to download pages from official websites.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately cite the Catechism of the Catholic Church, strengthening your arguments and upholding academic integrity. Remember to always refer to the specific style guide requirements for your project.
