Nativity of Mary
Offices of Christian Formation
Welcome to the Nativity of Mary Offices of Christian Formation Website! We strive to fulfill the goals of Catholic education as described in the U.S. Bishop's pastoral letter on education, To Teach As Jesus Did: "Pastoral programs of religious education for young people…must strive to teach doctrine fully, foster community and prepare their students for Christian service…merely 'teaching about' religion is not enough…" We work closely with our families to form their children in a faith which is "living, conscious, and active."
Preparation for the sacraments of Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation is parish and family centered. Parents are assisted in preparing their children and youth for reception of these sacraments through special workshops, including the long-standing Chalice-making activity for those making their First Eucharist, prayer and fellowship.
Program Highlights
The Kindergarten to Grade 8 students will be using the Faith First series. Faith First is a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate program that follows a consistent progression of topics and activities throughout the grade levels. Faith First is a family centered program, complete with activities and information on their website: www.faithfirst.com. We invite you to review your child's catechetical texts and to join them in their formation journey this year.
Our focus on the family will continue with our special activities for all ages. Care Packages for our young adults living away from home, Advent projects, Mardi Gras, Flowers for the Homebound, and the Graduation Liturgy and Breakfast are opportunities for us to share in service and faith as a Church community. Watch the bulletin for details!
A big year is in store for the High School formation program! High School students will be continuing with the Small Christian Community (SCC) and Workshop format. Following the pattern of the Renew 2000 program, Small Christian Communities will be meeting at the Nativity House on 12 Sunday evenings in the fall and spring. New materials have been developed for the SCCs in the spirit of whole-parish formation. Led by dedicated volunteer adults from the parish, High School students will be using the Sunday Gospel readings as a springboard for addressing issues of faith, relationships, career, home, and personal development. We hope that these efforts will focus attention on the journey of the Church as one community. Workshops on the fundamentals of our faith, such as the Sacraments and Scripture, as well as contemporary topics such as Finding God in the Lord of the Rings, and Exploring Christian Relationships, will be offered to provide in-depth faith building experiences. Retreat experiences and a youth peer leadership team are also in the works.
We look forward to a year of meaningful formation opportunities for your children and youth. To register for any of these programs, call the Religious Education Office at 756-0771. Please join us and may the Lord bless all of you!