We define faith formation as every action, experience, or relationship that nurtures a transformative relationship of trust with God and shapes the way we see and interact with God’s world. Faith formation is the very mission of God’s church, to equip followers of Jesus Christ so that they may be sent out into the world to spread God’s kingdom. Basically, faith formation is the process by which our faith grows, and our lives are shaped by God’s love.
The Catholic Church recognizes that the parents have primary responsibility for the religious education of their children. It is within family life that children learn about God, love for others, share prayer, learn about sacrifice and service, and celebrate sacraments together-including the Sunday Eucharist each week. Saint Mary Magdalene Parish assists parents and welcomes children and youth from kindergarten to Confirmation preparation classes in a journey of faith formation.
Order of Christian Initiation for Adults, commonly known as OCIA, is an opportunity for Catholics and non-Catholics to explore the Catholic Faith through Scripture. This evangelization program also reaches out to adult Catholics who need preparation for Confirmation and/or Holy Communion or who are interested in enriching their faith
From a Catechist:
“Much of the joy I derive in regularly sitting with children and focusing on the Faith Journey together is that I have come to know that the Church – filled as it is with complexity, difficulty, and mystery – will endure and carry on as these young personalities comprehend and incorporate faith into their emerging lives. What a gift it is indeed to encourage and promote the students’ love, hope, and faith through the teachings of Christ and the Church.”