What is Family Faith Formation?
Family Faith Formation is whole-family catechesis for grades Pre-K to 6th. This unique program blends classroom-style learning, family meetings, video series workshops, and at-home learning, so that both in the parish and at home families have the opportunity to build relationships through discussion and reflection on the life of Jesus Christ, His teachings, and the Catholic Faith. While participating in Family Faith Formation, families will focus on three principles. These principles are Catholic Practice, Catholic Culture, and Catholic Education.
Each month, families are expected to complete the following activities:
-
2 Catholic Practice Activities (e.g., going to Mass and spending time in Adoration).
-
2 Catholic Culture Activities (e.g., celebrating a saint's feast day with dinner together and praying a Rosary for a friend).
-
3 Catholic Education Activities (e.g., completing 3 activities from the A Family of Faith workbook).Upon registering, you have a choice to be a fully at-home family, or to participate in community with other families in the parish. It's up to you to decide what works best for your family.
What is First Holy Communion Prep?
Second-grade Sacrament preparation is also part of Family Faith Formation. While the books and content used by the second-graders are different, the meeting dates and expectations are the same as Family Faith Formation.
Since families with children in different grade levels can meet at the same time, it simplifies fitting faith formation into busy schedules.
Second-graders will get ready for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, while growing in faith alongside their families.
What is Confirmation Prep?
For 7th and 8th graders preparing for Confirmation, we offer Confirmation preparation classes! This program prioritizes the students while incorporating family elements to enhance the experience. Confirmation students meet on the same days as the Family Faith Formation meetings, making it easier for families to manage their schedules. Each lesson focuses on Catholic practices, culture, and education, with a particular emphasis on developing a personal prayer life.
The Confirmation preparation process spans two years, beginning in 7th grade and concluding in 8th grade. This program recognizes the vital role of family in a student's life while also encouraging their growing spiritual independence.
Contact Us
Nate Gulya
Director of Family Faith Formation
Phone: (717) 569-8531, ext. 218
Email: ngulya@sjnlancaster.org
Erin Houser
Family Faith Formation Assistant
Phone: (717) 569-8531, ext. 213
Email: ehouser@sjnlancaster.org