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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.

What Happens at a GOF Session?

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bullet GOF sessions are on the 2nd week of each month.  The calendar follows the school year. (September through May)
bullet What we learn at GOF prepares us for an upcoming church event or mass celebration.
bullet GOF is PART of  the requirements  for sacrament  preparation.
bullet Each year has a different “theme” or focus which does not repeat until the 7th year.
bullet GOF sessions are ONCE a MONTH. Your  family signs up for  ONE of the following days and attends that day each month:

TUESDAY   6:30—8:15pm
WEDNESDAY   6:30—8:15pm
THURSDAY   6:30—8:15pm
FRIDAY   6:30—8:15pm

News from GOF

GOF Calendar for 2009/10

Generations of Faith Reminder:
Have you taken the 5 minute Prayer Challenge? Generations of Faith has challenged it’s participates to pray Every day for 5 minutes. How do you Pray?? Scripture Reflection (Lectio Divina), Meditation, Journaling, A slow and reflectful “Our Father”.

Save the Environment!
Bring your Generations Of Faith Dinner Bags.  Generations of Faith is going green. We are asking all participates to bring dinnerware and utensils from home. Please look around your home for a canvas bag or picnic basket. Fill it with all re-usable items. No paper or Styrofoam please. Don’t forget the drinking cups

Adult/Parent Participation
This year we are requiring all adult participates to help out in Generations of Faith ministry. If you have not signed up for a ministry, please read the descriptions available on the website. Once you have chosen a ministry, please email Lisa Nakamura at Lnakamura@sfoasj.org

Environment: Buy items and set up Prayer environment for sessions. Must be creative and willing to work with others with set up. Work with Faith Formation director on process. Attend two meetings a month. One to design environment and the other to set up environment. Meet with Faith Formation director directly today or call Lisa 223-1770 ext 316.

Notice
F
amilies need to purchase a bible this year.  They can purchase a bible at GOF for $22 or $7.50

View Photos from our Past Gatherings

GOF Prayer

View our Brochure  

GOF Adults
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