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Have
you heard about our parish-wide faith formation program called
Generations of Faith?
What is Generations of
Faith?
Generations of Faith was started by the Center for Ministry
Development in 2001 and is funded through a large grant from the
Lily Endowment. It is currently being offered in 700 parishes across
the United States.
Generations of Faith is an innovative approach to faith
formation (Religious Education or CCD). It enables the parish to
become a community of learning by creating lifelong faith formation
that is centered in the events of church life, embraces all ages and
family generations, and promotes faith at home through parish
preparation programs. Most importantly, it increases participation
in church life. The program centers around a monthly gathering at
the parish where parishioners of all ages gather for a shared meal,
prayer, in-depth learning and sharing.
For whom is Generations
of Faith and how does it benefit?
For Families with Children (Pre-K to 6th grade):
Generations of Faith provides on-going catechesis and faith
formation for children and their parents (replacing Family Faith).
It is required for children preparing for parish sacramental
programs such as the First Eucharist program. Children learn
together with their parents.
For Teens (6th-12th grade): Adolescents come on their own or
with their families and attend the in-depth learning portion of the
sessions normally with their peers, and at times in
inter-generational groups. Generations of Faith is required for high
school students preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation
in 2005.
For Young Adults (18-30 yrs. old): At times neglected in
parish formation programs, Generations of Faith provides young
adults an opportunity to gather and learn about their faith through
experiences tailored to meet their needs.
For Adults (30 yrs.+): Yes, faith formation is not just for
children and families! Our faith grows and develops as we grow.
Adults gather to share their wisdom in inter-generational sessions
and as well in in-depth learning sessions specific to their needs.
The first year focuses on deepening our understanding of the Feasts
and Seasons celebrated in the Church year.
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