WHAT IS FAITH FORMATION?

The term Faith Formation has taken on other names within the Church, such as "Catechism" (or CCD — Confraternity of the Christian Doctrine) and "Religious Education" (for children who do not attend a Catholic elementary school).  Whatever the name, the program is vital to the development of children as Catholics. 

What does the program do?

The Faith Formation program does exactly what the name implies: it forms a child in the way of Christian living based on Gospel values.

In addition to learning Christian teaching and the foundations of the Catholic Faith, the program also prepares a child to receive one or all of the Sacraments of Christian initiation: Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation, as well as the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Parent envolvement and family catechesis is the key.

The Faith Formation program involves a child's parents in the learning process.  Parents are expected to attend informational meetings as well as formation sessions for parents, as our own process of formation is on-going.

As the child’s “first catechists,” parents are invited to participate in the process of their child’s faith formation, by creating a habit of prayer, attending Mass together, reviewing materials from classes, and speaking to them about how God is at work in their lives.  This is vital to the growth of our young disciples; as they are guided by family members, their faith is strengthened as they grow in knowledge and love of Jesus.

When and where are classes held?

Faith Formation classes are held in classrooms on the parish grounds.  Children attend a one-hour class each week.  Classes have a similar format to classes that students would normally have in school.  They are taught by trained lay catechists, who might be assisted by a class aide. 

Classes in English are held on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 11:00 a.m.  Classes in Spanish are held on Wednesday afternoons at 4:30 p.m., and on Saturday mornings at 11:00 a.m.    

When should children be enrolled in the program?

Typically, children in Grades 1 through 6 will attend classes on the above days, with the opportunity to learn in English or Spanish, at the parent’s discretion and with the knowledge that if a particular language isn’t working out, they have the option to switch to the language that is most comfortable for the child.

This program beings in August.  Enrollment is now in progress.  To enroll

registration URL:  http://www.olrchurch.org//faith-formation-registration