Martin Luther wrote his Small Catechism in 1529 for the purpose of providing religious instruction to children. The Evangelical Synod of North America adopted it as one of its three doctrinal standards. The Evangelical and Reformed Church continued that policy.

The Small Catechism as written by Luther, contained certain parts that have not always been included in printed editions, and are not included here. These are:

• a long preface concerning its use.

• “Morning and Evening Prayers,”

• “Grace at Table,”

• “Table of Duties: consisting of certain passages of the Scriptures, selected for various estates and conditions of men, by which they may be admonished to do their respective duties.”

• Also, under the heading of Confession and Absolution, to the question “What are such sins?” Luther gave two examples of prayers of confession, which are omitted here.

The full text can be found in The Living Theological Heritage of the United Church of Christ, 2:141-159. The following text is derived in part from Living Theological Heritage and in part from the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod web site.

Text of Luther's Small Catechism

Text of Luther's Small Catechism may also be found at the following sites. You will find differences in what is included, and also in translation:

United Church of Christ

Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod

Project Wittenberg