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FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN (Pre-K through 5th grade)
The Church recognizes that parents are the first and best teachers of the faith for their children. The programs offered in the parish are meant to give support and structure to the formation that is happening in the home. Our focus is not only on information but also on transformation of heart so that the children become one in Jesus Christ. We strive to integrate the meaning and message of the Word of God, the development of a community of faith, the celebration of Liturgy and worship, and Christianity lived out in service and discipleship. Our goal is to help the children and families connect their faith with their lived experience, their personal stories reflected on in the light of scripture and the living tradition of the community.

Classroom based Faith Formation groups average sixteen children with two adults per room. Both The Franciscan School and the parish Lifelong Faith Formation children learn doctrine through the use of a textbook. In addition there is a strong focus on Scripture, particularly the Sunday readings, prayer, Catholic Social Teaching and stewardship of time, talent and treasure.

For more information, visit our Frequently Asked Questions or contact the following staff members:

Maureen Leahy, Director of Lifelong Faith Formation for Families with Children
Phone: 919-847-8205 ext. 239 
E-mail: Maureen Leahy

Laura Keltie, Administrative Specialist   
Phone: 919-847-8205 ext 237 
E-mail: Laura Keltie

CLASSES SCHEDULE & OVERVIEW 

 icon_info    Lifelong Faith Formation - Program Information 2009-2010     

Faith Formation Classes Schedule
Faith Formation classes for elementary grades are held on Sundays from 12:45 to 2:15 PM and 3:45 to 5:15 PM. On Mondays children meet from 4:45 to 6:15 PM. All elementary sessions are held in The Franciscan School, the parish education center.  Please view the calendar below to see meeting dates for classes.

IconCalendar2  Family Calendar 2010
 

Family-centered Intergenerational Religious Education (FIRE)
FIRE is based on the belief that we learn from each other and that we are all searching and hungering for God. FIRE teaches within small intergenerational communities of four to six households, in which people of all ages come together to learn about God. Each of the five years of the program covers a different theme: Revelation, Sacrament, Old Testament, Creed, and Morality. Families meet in homes or at the parish (space permitting) sixteen times a year at a time agreed upon by the group. Families share the responsibility for facilitating the lesson and hospitality. Orientation, materials and support are provided by the Lifelong Faith Formation staff. You may form your own group or request to join with other families.

Home Schooling
Parents may choose to share faith and form their children at home. Working with the text book that is used both in the parish and school programs, parents can download lesson plans from the publisher’s web site. Registration is required so that the Lifelong Faith Formation office may provide materials and support to the family. 

Vacation Bible School 
Vacation Bible School is a week long morning program for children in grades pre-K to five. The week is filled with great fun and includes Bible stories, music, crafts, outdoor games, storytelling and great snacks. VBS is usually held in mid to late June; check the Lifelong Faith Formation calendar for the exact date. Registration is held in the early spring. Middle and High School youth are encouraged to become teen helpers. Preparation begins in January and lots of hands are needed.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I register my child/youth for Lifelong Faith Formation? 
Click here for Registration       

How do I enroll my child for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist?
Your child is automatically enrolled upon registration for Lifelong Faith Formation in first grade. Preparation is a two year process with the sacraments celebrated in grade two. If your child is beyond first or second grade and needs to prepare for sacraments, contact the Lifelong Faith Formation office at 847-8205 x239.  The children may be prepared for sacraments through weekly parish Lifelong Faith Formation sessions, The Franciscan School or through Family Intergenerational Religious Education (F.I.R.E.).

How do I know if Faith Formation is cancelled due to weather?

For cancellations due to weather call the parish @ 847-8205 for weather update message. For the elementary children in addition to this message, you may call the Director at extension 239