Faith Formation

Live It: Service Project Night
•When: Wednesday February 24, 6:00 - 7:45pm
•Who: Students in Grades 5-8; parents are welcome
•Where: Kids Against Hunger
•What: Packing food
Parents drop off and pick up students at:
1000 S. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids
Call Robin Thorson, 255-5406, for more information

According to the U.S. Catholic Bishops, “ongoing catechesis is a lifelong process.” All Catholics are encouraged to participate in opportunities to nourish and grow in faith throughout their lives. One primary way faith is nurtured is through participation in the weekend Eucharistic liturgy. In addition to regular participation in the Eucharist, the following are expectations regarding faith formation at Sacred Heart Parish.

For adults without children in the parish programs, participation in Journey In Faith monthly gatherings is encouraged. In addition, there are small groups in the parish that meet seasonally and there are numerous offerings in the St. Cloud metro area for adults. Reflection on the scripture, bible study, prayer, and individual reading on topics of spirituality are other ways to continue to grow in faith.

For families with children in grades 1-12 the expectations are as follows:
• all children along with parents (or an adult mentor) participate in Journey In Faith
monthly gatherings
• materials from “take home kits” are used to reinforce the Journey In Faith learning
• all participate in the events of church life
• participation by children in grades 6-9 in one additional faith-forming activity each month is highly encouraged (i.e. youth group, retreats, Diocesan or St. Cloud area youth events)
• service to others is practiced (see the "Service" attachment for expectations)

The attachment "Faith Formation Is More Than Once A Month" contains information about additional opportunities for faith formation and service.

"Live It" is an additional faith formation opportunity for students is grades 5-8. See the attachment for details including a schedule.

For families with children in a Catholic School, participation in Journey In Faith monthly gatherings by all members of the family is encouraged. The experience and learning at these sessions complements, but does not duplicate, what the children are learning in school. If you decide not to have the children in your family who attend Catholic School participate in the JIF sessions, adults are still highly encouraged to participate as a means to continue their own faith formation. Children preparing to celebrate the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, or Confirmation are expected to complete the additional requirements for these programs.

Registration for 2009-2010 programs including Journey In Faith and preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation can be done by completing the Faith Formation Registration Form (one per household) along with the Faith-Based Covenant Form. Forms are in an attachment below. Space is limited at each session and some sessions may be filled. Return completed forms to the Parish Office.

To find out more about Journey in Faith see that page on this web site.

Contact Joan Krause at 251-8115 (ext. *818) or jkrause@sacredheartsaukrapids.org for more information.