"Since parents have conferred life on their children, they have a most solemn obligation to educate their offspring. Hence parents must be acknowledged as the first and foremost educators of their children. The church reminds parents of the serious duty which is theirs of taking every opportunity - or of making the opportunity - for their children to be able to enjoy these helps and to pace their development as Christians with their growth as citizens of the world." (Declaration of Christian Education)

"Parents are the first and foremost catechists of their children. They catechize informally but powerfully by example and instruction. They communicate values and attitudes by showing love for Christ and His church and for each other, by reverently receiving the Eucharist and living in its spirit, and by fostering justice and love in all their relationships. Their active involvement in the parish, their readiness to seek opportunities to serve others, and their practice of frequent and spontaneous prayer, all make meaningful their professions of belief. Parents nurture faith in their children by showing them the richness and beauty of lived faith. Parents should frequently be reminded of their obligation to see to it their children participate in catechetical programs sponsored by the Church." (Sharing the Light of Faith #212)