Dear Friends,
A simple definition of the word faith is to believe and trust in
God’s love. Faith is a gift from God that we experience as members
of the church.
A simple definition of the word formation is giving or able to give
form; helping to shape, develop or mold. So, faith formation for
children and adults is the practice of exploring, strengthening and
developing our belief in God and the way of leading our lives here
on earth. The particular way that we practice our faith tells us
that we are Catholic. Our faith should never reach final completion,
but should always be in a process of rejuvenation and growth.
Fully initiated adults go to Mass, attend a bible study or prayer
group, participate in the works of the church through stewardship
opportunities or attend continuing education events as growth
experiences. Children, with the help and guidance of their parents,
growth in their faith through the traditions and practices of their
family, religious education classes, and the preparation process for
the sacraments.
Parents are the primary educators of faith for their children. St.
Louis church supports those efforts through a variety of programs
that take place here. Faith formation on a consistent basis will
help your family, especially the children to:
• Learn more about Jesus and the
Gospels
• Grow in Catholic Spirituality
• Learn and strengthen pray experiences
• Meet with other Catholics
• Be involved in the works of charity and justice
• Experience the Catholic tradition
There are separate preparation programs for each of the sacraments.
For children to participate in the preparation for First Communion,
First Penance and Confirmation, it is expected that children
participate in religious education through Catholic school or in a
parish religious education program in addition to the sacrament
preparation program.
Religious Education
Guidelines
v Families must be registered
parishioners at St. Louis; children attending Public school are
required to be in a parish religious education program.
v
St. Louis is a stewardship parish: families are
committed to sharing their gifts of time, talent, and treasure and
also making a regular commitment to participation in Sunday Mass.
v Children must attend at least one
year of Religious Education, either through Catholic School or
Religious Education programs, before preparing for a sacrament;
sacramental programs involve parent and child participation.
