Adult Faith Formation

“If I say my “Yes” to God’s desire to enter into my life, I can become a bearer of Jesus. If I continue to say “Yes” to the daily proposals of God, I can have the life of Jesus grow in me. If I share with others in work and action, the life of a disciple of Jesus, I can bring him to birth in their world.” (Share the Word – Scripture Reflections for Today’s Disciples 1/29).

What happens after high school and college? Does your Faith Formation come to a halt?
St. Mary’s realizes many adults are searching for answers about their faith. The Office of Adult Faith Formation at St. Mary’s offers adults many opportunities to enrich their spiritual growth as they travel on the journey of becoming closer to God. We offer different areas of study throughout the year with special programs during Advent and Lent. Many presentations are geared to show how God’s word fits into today’s everyday life.

Adult Education
According to the United States Bishops, “Lifelong formation is always needed and must be a priority in the Church’s catechetical ministry”  Throughout the year, St. Mary’s offers courses, workshops and seminars, days of prayer and other spiritual opportunities to help adults in the parish to increase their knowledge of the faith and to grow in their own spirituality.  We offer courses toward diocesan basic and advanced catechist certification.

Baptismal Preparation Team
In the Sacrament of Baptism we joyfully welcome the newly born children of our parish into our community of faith. Parents who are preparing to have their first child baptized are required to attend a Baptismal Preparation Program, held on the first Tuesday of each month. This faith-enhancing gathering helps to deepen their understanding of the special sacrament they are about to participate in. It also allows them to hear the reflections and personal experiences of some of the ministry members concerning the baptism of their own children and the experience of living an active Catholic family life. In addition to the group of people who host the Baptismal Preparation Programs, this ministry consists of a second group of individuals who provide assistance on a rotating basis at the baptismal ceremonies themselves. These are held on the second and fourth Sundays of every month. Ministry members greet parents, godparents and families when they arrive at the church and guide parents through the Baptismal ceremony.

Pre-Cana
Two host married couples come together to help prepare engaged couples for the Sacrament of Marriage. They share their faith, as well as their own marriage experiences and challenges. Presenting couples facilitate discussions and lead prayer as they bring the engaged couple to a better understanding of the commitment they are about to make. Couples preparing for marriage should contact the Diocese of Rockville Centre.