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Family Catechesis
“Family catechesis therefore precedes, accompanies and enriches all other forms of catechesis…Thus, there cannot be too great an effort on the part of Christian parents to prepare for this ministry of being their own children's catechists and to carry it out with tireless zeal.”—Pope Saint John Paul II, Catechesi Tradendae
“The role of parents in education is of such importance that it is almost impossible to provide an adequate substitute…Through the grace of the sacrament of marriage, parents receive the responsibility and privilege of evangelizing their children…Education in the faith by the parents should begin in the child’s earliest years.”–Catechism of the Catholic Church 2221, 2225, 2226
Family of Faith
Our parish has embarked on a new (yet ancient) approach to faith formation for children—family catechesis, utilizing Family of Faith by Sophia Institute Press. These resources help to echo what Jesus taught through His Church to parents, who in turn echo Him to their children, by passing on their own faith.
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Family Catechesis: Frequently asked questions
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“It is I; do not be afraid.” (Jn 6:19-20) Parents throughout many centuries have been passing on the faith either in religious education classes, or at home—and they are not professors of theology! Also, you will be provided with the materiel and support you need. Further, you already have graces to help your child! When your child was baptized, you accepted the responsibility for raising them in the faith, and the Lord does not give a responsibility without also giving us the graces to accomplish it. (1Cor 10:13; 2Cor 12:9) In addition to the support of the parish staff and volunteers, you have immeasurable graces from Our Lord to accomplish this wonderful task!
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Frankly, the “traditional” Religious Education program no longer works. Success depended primarily on families regularly participating in Sunday Mass and actively practicing their faith at home. In our modern, secularized world, these can no longer be taken for granted. A Family of Faith fosters both. Further, this is an initiative of our Diocese.
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First, a parent catechesis session is held once a month, to help parents know their faith more deeply. Both parents are encouraged to attend—one is necessary. There are two (2) home-lessons that are completed each month, and other activities to help integrate the faith into your family’s life. Second, a monthly Family Fellowship meeting is held for the whole family to help us know, love, and serve one another here at our parish.
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The monthly at-home lessons are for children from K-8th grade, older children and teens can help to assist or pass on the faith to their younger siblings.
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Sacramental Preparation is primarily conducted by the parish, and preparation for 1st Penance or Eucharist, is in addition to, not instead of Family Catechesis. As Catholics, we say, “both/and”, not “either/or.” More information about Sacramental Preparation can be found here.
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The registration for Family Catechesis covers administrative fees (salaries, facilities, events, etc.), and the cost of the materials needed for each family. If there are financial hardships or a family is unable to pay, a family will not be turned away—but please contact the Director of Faith Formation for more information.
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Links
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Contact information
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Paul Crnkovichp.crnkovichsttafw.orgDirector of Faith Formation
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