Program Overview
Family Formation Grades (K-5): Please read Fr. Terry's letter as an introduction to our program
What is Family Formation? Family Formation is what the title implies--formation for the whole family. Parents and children are catechized together. Parents will be the main catechist (teacher) of the faith for their children.
Who can participate? Families with children in grades K-5. We invite famiies who homeschool or send their children to Catholic School to also participate, as this program is geared at not only in forming the whole family, but strengthening the bonds of community in our parish.
How does it work? Once a month parents and students will attend class (1st Wednesdays). On 1st Wednesdays, parents will attend their own formation class and pick up materials for the rest of the month. Students will attend class led by a "substitute catechist". The rest of the month, parents will teach their children at home lessons provided. One lesson for the whole family. Here's an example of what a typical month will look like.
How will I know what to teach? Each month parents will receive a packet of lessons to do at home. Each lesson is written at an elementary level but with adult level instruction to guide and enhance your teaching. We provide all materials, instructions and support. Parents do not have to be experts in the Faith, just willing to devote about an hour a week to quality family time in sharing the Faith.
What if I have a busy schedule? The nice about this program is that you can taylor it to your family's schedule. No more having to skip Faith Formation because of dance or hockey--you can schedule Faith Formation whenever it's convenient for your family. Some families continue to mark out Wednesday nights or some do it on Sundays after church. It's all up to you! All you need is to take time to review the materials and 1 hour to complete the lesson with your children.
Also you can take Family Formation anywhere, as you travel or in the car. Any member of your extended family can help you out. Have grandparents do a lesson or two. The program is that adaptable.
What about my older or younger children? Although the lessons are geared for K-5, younger children can listen and pray with the family and participate as much as able. Older children (especially teens) can be recruited to help with activities and perhaps lead a lesson or prayer.
What will we be learning? The Family Formation program follows a three-year liturgical cycle, is faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church, is driven by Sacred Scripture, and references the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It covers all tenets of our Catholic Faith.
What would a typical 1st Wednesday Family Formation Night look like? TBD