(Greek katechoumenos, one instructed) A name applied to one undergoing instruction preparatory to the reception of Baptism and admission into the Church. Historically, there were three distinct classes of catechumens: audientes, or hearers; catechumens proper, sometimes called genuflectentes, or kneelers; and competentes, or those ready for Baptism.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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