Faith Formation
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) says in its opening statement:
‘God infinitely perfect and blessed in himself, in a plan of sheer goodness freely created man to make him share in his own blessed life. For this reason, at every time and in every place, God draws close to man. He calls man to seek him, to know him, and to love him with all his strength. …’ CCC 1
We are hardwired to seek God, to come to know God, and to love God with all our strength. Catechesis is the Church’s effort to make disciples, to help us believe that Jesus is the Son of God so that they might have life in His Name, and to educate and instruct them in His life to build up the Body of Christ.
FAITH FORMATION is Lifelong!
It isn’t just for kids! It doesn’t take place solely in Faith Formation classes!
It is ‘intimately bound up with the whole of the Church’s Life’ – yes – ‘geographical extension and numerical increase, but even more her inner growth and correspondence with God’s plan depend essentially on catechesis (faith formation)’ CCC 7
Formation in the Catholic faith begins at birth and continues to and through birth to new life in death. All that we do as a parish IS Formation and formal Faith Formation is an important aspect of this.
St. Francis offers many opportunities for FORMAL formation!
These include: Preparation for Sacraments; Children’s Faith Formation; Youth Ministry; Adult Faith Formation – Bible studies, Book studies, etc.; RCIA for Adults/Children; Social Justice offerings; Vacation Bible School.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, Faith formation happens EVERY Sunday and weekday, at every Mass!