Children's Faith Formation

 

 

Most of us grew up using the acronym CCD to denote participation in Catholic religious education class. So, why has it changed to Faith Formation?

 

The confraternity of Christian Doctrine classes used a catechism approach with question and answer format. This, of course, put the emphasis on verbal knowledge of the teaching of the Church. After the Second Vatican Council catechists were encouraged to explore new ways of passing on the Faith that would contain the ‘catechism’ information but also include the practical and especially the spiritual basis of the Faith.

 

The term ‘Faith Formation’ points out this different emphasis in the learning process. The goal is to have verbal knowledge but, most importantly, to have a living experience based on participation in liturgy and practice in prayer.

 

Children’s Faith Formation continues to be special at St. Mary Star of the Sea. Because of our small numbers we are able to offer almost an individual program for the children. This is a joy for the families and also for the teacher. Handing on the Faith, which is the goal of the catechist, becomes a personal interaction; isn’t this what the Lord is asking of all of us?

 

This year our theme will be: Why did Jesus Come and What did He leave Us? Answering these questions will lead us to an in depth consideration of how we are to live our lives in the sight of God, how the Sacraments are to help, why Jesus founded a Church, and how the Church is important to us. How amazing it would be if all parents could answer these questions for their children without the aid of a catechist. We encourage our parents to stay

during our meetings so that they can pray with us, learn with us, and, of course, help.

 

Probably our most special times are naturally at Liturgy. We have learned enough music now to be able to participate with the Adult Choir once a month. The most important thing was learning the ‘proper’ of the mass, in other words, the sung responses. This part of the mass is the responsibility of the congregation, not the choir, and we are proud of our voices leading the way for the congregation.

 

 

  Click on this link to view the Faith Formation Calendar