The Westminster Shorter Catechism (also known simply as the Shorter Catechism) was written in the 1640s by English and Scottish clergymen -- the assembly that also produced the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Westminster Larger Catechism. The three documents together are often referred to as the Westminster Standards and are judged by some as the most important English documents coming out of the Reformation.
The Shorter Catechism is designed to educate lay persons in matters of doctrine and belief and, as with other catechisms, is in a simple question and answer format to facilitate memorization.
Perhaps the most famous of the questions is the first:
Q. 1. What is the chief end of man?
A. Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.
See also[]
- Westminster Larger Catechism
- Reformation
- Reformed theology