Catholic Faith Formation is a form of evangelization. Evangelization is the fundamental mission of the Church. It describes all the ways the Church teaches, celebrates, and witnesses the gospel message with the aim of conforming hearts and minds to Jesus Christ. Evangelization can be seen as an introduction to the gospel message through word and deed, like a first contact of faith. In turn, Faith formation focuses on deepening initial conversion to faith. It incorporates the catechetical, liturgical, and pastoral ministries.
Faith formation programs go beyond religious education by “forming” one’s entire life to be centered on Jesus Christ. Faith formation promotes knowledge of the faith and the meaning of the Liturgy and the Sacraments. It lays the foundation of moral teaching for us to live in community and to participate actively in the mission of the Church. Faith formation also teaches us how to pray with Christ which prepares us to be present as Christians in society. Really, Faith formation is a lifelong process because we are never finished, but continue to grow in love and understanding of God.
When you see the term “Faith Formation,” it can be seen as an umbrella term for all things catechetical, educational, and sacramental preparation. And here at Saint Joe’s, we have many formation programs and options.
Parochial School of Religion (PSR)
Saint Joseph Parish School of Religion (PSR) is the educational arm of the parish community and is responsible for providing religious instruction to children in our parish who are homeschooled, attend public or non-Catholic private schools in grades preschool-8. PSR assists parents as primary educators of faith, helps to catechize the children of our Parish in the Gospel Message, the truths of our Catholic faith, and offers opportunities for full, active participation in the Church.
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) or Children (RCIC)
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process that incorporates unbaptized persons into Jesus Christ through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist as well as those who have been baptized Christians but not Roman Catholics.
20 Minute Chatechism
A new program coming in September is our “20-Minute Catechism.” This program will ask and answer a question related to our Catholic Faith in a way that fits into the busyness of our lives. After 8am mass (approx. 9:10am) and after 10am mass (approx. 11:10 am) once a month on Sunday in the church, there will be a brief lesson on a specific topic lasting 20 minutes. Topics include:
- September 11 - The Liturgical Year
- October 16 - Discipleship
- November 6 - Advent