Faith Formation
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd | Level 1
Children from three to six years of age gather once a week for two hours on a weekday evening from September through May. Sessions are held in the atrium at the Formation Center. This program is based on Scripture and liturgy and encourages the preschool child to grow in his or her relationship with God through listening, reflection and prayer.
For more information, please contact Sara Thomas in the parish office.
Elementary School | Kindergarten to Sixth Grade
The children in elementary grades will continue their journey of faith as they learn the teachings of the faith, which are presented in the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church:
1. Creed – What we believe
2. Sacraments – How we worship
3. Morality – How we live
4. Prayer – How and why we pray
These teachings are reinforced on every grade level every year, and are presented in greater depth each year, thereby using a spiral learning approach. The children will also be provided with the opportunity for reflective moments in the contemplative atmosphere of the atrium.
This program will help the children continue to develop their Catholic identity as they learn about the faith through Scripture, tradition and sacred music. Through consistent presence in faith formation and active participation in Sunday liturgy, these young Christians are led more fully along the way of faith.
Classes are held Sunday mornings from 10:10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. in Aquinas Academy (red brick building next to the church) from September to May. A calendar of activities for the year will be provided after registration has been completed.
For more information, please contact Kathi Probo in the parish office.
Middle School
Early adolescence is a time of multiple changes in the life of a child. Sensitive to these needs, but aware of a continuous need for faith formation, we have included a program for middle school youth. Their sessions will include a continuing study of the faith, along with opportunities to read and reflect on sacred Scripture. The formation sessions are held Sundays from 10:10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. in the formation center from September to May.
For more information, please contact Kathi Probo in the parish office.
High School
Faith formation is a journey of a lifetime. It does not stop after the sacrament of confirmation is received. In the high school years, there is a greater potential for critical thinking which is needed for the development of a mature faith. Our high school students meet weekly and discuss faith and moral issues that will encourage them to apply the principles of our faith in their daily lives and guide them as they journey to Christ. They will also have opportunities to study and reflect on sacred Scripture.
The formation sessions are held Sunday mornings from 10:10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. in the formation center.
For more information, please contact Kathi Probo in the parish office.
Home-Based Catechesis
This is a parent directed study process that uses the We Believe texts. The home-based option requires a strong commitment of parents and children, but it can also accommodate busy schedules and provide opportunity for quality family time. The student text along with the At Home text is designed to provide guidelines for catechesis at home.
Bishop Brandt recently promulgated a policy for parishes and families who have children who receive their formal religious formation in the home.
For more information, please contact Kathi Probo in the parish office.
Adult Catechesis
Sunday catechesis is offered in the parish hall on Sundays from 10:05 a.m. to 11:05 a.m. Topics include Catholic beliefs and teachings, introduction to Scripture, morality and prayer. Registration is not necessary.
Faith sharing meets every other week to explore the word of God and its connection to our lives through the Gospel.
Scripture sharing meets every other week to discuss the readings for the upcoming weekend.