How Do You Cite The Catechism

How to Cite the Catechism of the Catholic Church

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) is a significant resource for Catholic theology and doctrine. Knowing how to properly cite it in your academic work is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and giving proper credit to the source. The citation style you use will depend on the specific style guide your institution or publication requires (e.g., MLA, Chicago, Turabian). However, the core information remains consistent.

Key Information for Citations

Before we dive into specific style examples, let's identify the key pieces of information you'll need for any CCC citation:

• Paragraph Number: This is the most important element of your citation. The CCC is organized by paragraph numbers, not page numbers. Therefore, you will always cite using the paragraph number.
• Edition: While less frequently required, specifying the edition (especially if you're using a significantly older edition) adds precision. The most commonly used and current edition is the 1997 English translation.
• Section/Part (Optional): For more context, you can include the part or section of the Catechism the paragraph falls under, but this is usually unnecessary unless the context is very unclear from the paragraph number alone.

Example Citations in Different Styles

Here are examples of how to cite the Catechism using paragraph numbers in a few common citation styles. Remember to adapt these examples to your specific needs and always consult the style guide's official documentation for the most accurate information.

MLA Style

• In-text citation: (CCC, ¶ 210). This places the abbreviation for the Catechism and the paragraph number in parentheses. Note the use of "¶" before the paragraph number.

• Works Cited entry: While not strictly required in a short paper where the Catechism is clearly mentioned, a fuller entry might look like this (though the full title is usually unnecessary given context): Catechism of the Catholic Church. 1997.

Chicago Style (Notes and Bibliography)

• Footnote/Endnote: ¹ Catechism of the Catholic Church, ¶ 210.

• Bibliography: Catechism of the Catholic Church. Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 1997.

APA Style

APA style doesn't have a standard format for citing religious texts like the Catechism. You would likely adapt the information within the text in a parenthetical style or a footnote, emphasizing the paragraph number. For example: (Catechism of the Catholic Church, ¶ 210, 1997).

Tips for Accurate Citations

• Double-check paragraph numbers: Ensure accuracy; a misnumbered paragraph significantly weakens your credibility.
• Consistency: Maintain consistency in your citation style throughout your work.
• Consult style guides: Refer to the official style guide for complete and up-to-date guidelines.

By following these guidelines, you can properly cite the Catechism of the Catholic Church and demonstrate your academic rigor and respect for intellectual property. Remember that accurate citation is crucial to avoid plagiarism and maintain academic integrity.