Faith Formation

Faith Formation provides parish members with sacramental preparation and opportunites for life-long spiritual growth and education as disciples of Jesus Christ. The Committee works with the Director of Faith Formation to plan and implement all aspects of faith formation from the earliest years to our older years. Our director of faith formation is Terri Kowalczyk, 719-599-5031 x107.

R.C.I.C. (Rite of Christian Initiation for Children): A program for children/youth over seven who wish to be baptized. Contact Terri Kowalczyk for more information.

R.C.I.A. (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults): A spiritual journey for those 18 and older who have not been baptized, or who have been baptized in another denomination and desire full participation in the Catholic Church. Regular gatherings are held to share God's Word, experience prayer and reflection, provide service, and learn about the Catholic faith. Contact Terri Kowalczyk for more information.

Elementary Faith Formation: For children ages four through the fifth grade. Children are taught in a traditional classroom setting or home-study program. Emphasis is on basic foundations of our faith and sacred scripture. Contact Jennifer Lehrman for more information.

Youth Faith Formation: For youth in grades 6-12. The aim is to foster growth and continued deeper understanding of the Catholic faith through various aspects of formation, including the spiritual, intellectual and social. Emphasis is on the study and discussion of Sacred Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and church doctrine. Contact Brian Africano for more information.

Continuing (Adult) Faith Formation: Programs are held throughout the year allowing for continued growth in the knowledge and love of our Catholic faith. Please check the parish bulletin for more opportunities and information.

Adult Confirmation: These classes are for actively participating Catholic adults, 21 years of age or older, who have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Penance, and Eucharist. These classes generally begin during the Easter Season and last for eight weeks. Adult Confirmation usually takes place at St. Mary's Cathedral with the Bishop. Call the Director of Faith Formation for further information.

Welcome Back: This program is offered for those who have been away from the Catholic Church. It is designed to help people return to the sacraments and to regular church attendance. It provides an opportunity for people to ask questions about their faith and to learn about changes in the Church. These five-week sessions are offered in January and again after Easter. Contact Terri Kowalczyk for more information.

Children's Liturgy of the Word: Forms children in the liturgical language of the church and nourishes and guides their spiritual growth in ways that makes the Scriptures understandable to them. For elementary age children who have not yet received their first Eucharist. Takes place two times a month during Sunday's Liturgy of the Word. Contact Jennifer Lehrman for more information.

Natural Family Planning (NFP): NFP is a scientifically-proven method that uses an awareness of women's fertility to either achieve or postpone pregnancy. It is all-natural, Church approved, and 99% effective in postponing pregnancy when used correctly. Open to all couples. For a schedule of classes, visit the NFP website.

Group Spiritual Direction: Community process of spiritual direction in a group setting to grow in our relationship with God, to grow in inner freedom and our continuing quest for deepening relationship with others.

Apologetics: Programs and discussions to help support a better understanding of our Catholic faith so that we may be able to defend that faith. To view the schedule of meetings and topics, CLICK HERE. Contact Lyn Rooney for more information.

Affiliated Program: Women's Story: This program, founded by the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration, is a monthly gathering where women share their experiences, hopes and spiritual journey. The group provides opportunities for prayer - rituals, reflections, storytelling and networking.