Abstract:
In this contribution the view is presented that the Heidelberg Catechism should be
regarded as an attempt to promote unity between 16th century reformers and churches in
the Palatinate. This, to some extent, determined the content of the Catechism resulting in
some controversial issues receiving less attention. This in turn not only made the Catechism
acceptable to a wide spectrum of Reformed Christianity, but also resulted in a creative and
unique contribution to Reformed theology, almost a ‘third option’. It was soon used in
different Reformed territories as a confession and acclaimed for its clarity in formulating
the basic Reformed faith. Today the Heidelberg Catechism is regarded as one of the most
‘ecumenical’ documents of the 16th century. As such, it still promotes unity amongst many
Reformed churches, including those in South Africa.
