ABOUT GENERATIONS OF FAITH OR FAITH FESTIVALS

Why are we initiating this program?
When you had your child baptized you “accepted the responsibility of training him/her in the practice of the faith. You assumed the duty to bring him, her up to keep God’s commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbor.” You were asked if “you clearly understood what you were undertaking?” You responded, “We do!”
We are helping you carry out that responsibility! You (parents) will always be the primary teachers of your children. Our children learn just about everything from you and their family. Home is also the primary place where our children learn their faith as well. We will provide a structured learning environment, trained leaders, a variety of resources and learning tools (the home kit) to extend your faith learning at home.

What about content? Will our children be getting all the information they need to learn about our Catholic faith, prayers, traditions, practices?
We will cover Our Church Year and Seasons, the Sacraments, the Creed/Catholic Beliefs, Prayer and Spirituality, Justice and Service and Catholic Morality over the course of five years. We are well on our way with the topics we have covered since February 2005: The Three Practices of Lent, Our Lady of Pompeii and the Rosary, All Saints, The Mass, the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist and Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper. It is important that you attend as many sessions as possible to gain the full benefits of this program.

How will we know if our children are really learning?
We will know participants are learning and growing in their faith when:

• more families are praying together
• more children and their parents actually understand the value of our Sunday Mass and the Sacraments and attend them regularly
• more families are actively participating in parish life
• more families and individuals are forming real Christian community and supporting one another in living a Christ-filled life.

What about the sacramental preparation programs?
Preparation for our sacramental programs begins with a summer Sacramental Camp, attendance at weekly Mass! Students will participate in the Family Faith Festivals and attend classes.

We ask your patience and courage as we embark on this new way of faith formation. We bravely take this step for the happiness of our children and ourselves.