So often in parish ministry efforts, the focus is on children and youth efforts. We hear it again and again, “YOU are the future of the Church!” Great! But does that make me the past of the Church? The addition of “Family” in Family Faith Formation rewrites that narrative and adds a wide-angle lens to the formation of the future Church, including the present Church.

Welcome to Family Faith Formation at Saint Joseph

Family Faith Formation is a dynamic and flexible program created to support your family’s spiritual journey – right in the midst of your busy life. We believe that faith formation isn’t just another task to complete; it’s a way of life to be lived and shared.

At Saint Joseph, we hope you and your family will discover a welcoming community with meaningful opportunities to encounter Christ through the programs we offer. Take a few moments to explore our offerings and see what best fits your family’s needs.

If you have any questions or need guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact the Formation Office. We’re here to walk with you.

Q: Is Family Faith Formation required?

A: The short answer is no. You don’t need to be in a program to grow in your faith. But we were not made to be alone; we are made for community. We want you to be part of ours here! Our programs are here to support your family in their faith journey and to help build your domestic church.

Q: What is a Domestic Church?

A: Your house is your domestic church. We want you to feel confident in creating an environment in your home that shows your children that your goal is heaven. What we surround ourselves with will encourage them to grow in their relationship with God.

Q: My kids need their Sacraments, do I need to be involved in Faith Formation as well?

A: Yes, you will need to be registered for both Family Faith Formation and Sacramental prep. Most of your Sacramental Prep will be done at home together, but we are requiring that Sacramental Prep families also attend at least six of the twelve family meals and gatherings to reinforce what you are learning together. Additionally, if your child is in 3rd grade or above, we encourage them to attend Youth Group on Monday nights. We will meet on two Mondays a month, and this will be a drop-off event for the students only.

Q: Your calendar has so much on it. Are we supposed to do it all?

A: We know you are busy! The calendar has a lot on it, so you can pick and choose what works for your schedule. Want to do it all? Great! If you can only do the bare minimum, that’s okay too! We aren’t a “one size fits all” program. We as humans aren’t designed that way, so we don’t want our programs to be that way either.

Q: What does the new program look like?

A: Here’s a sample of what to expect. Gather and share a meal. After the meal, we will split the kids into age-appropriate groups for a short catechesis and then a group activity and/or craft. Meanwhile, parents will gather in the Chaminade for fellowship and small group time to discuss raising Catholic children in today’s culture. We will come together at the end to pray together.

Q: We’re here for Sacraments…what do we need to do?

A: If you are here for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, you will register for both Family Faith Formation and Sacramental Prep. We will provide you with books to work through with your student, and additionally, you will attend at least 6 of our Family meals. If you are here for Confirmation, you will register for both Family Faith Formation and Sacramental prep. We will provide books to work through at home with your student, but we will also be offering Youth Group for your students aged 9 and older for Confirmation.

Q: So the age of Confirmation is nine?

A: Yes! The archdiocese has lowered the age of Confirmation to nine. There is a lot behind this decision, but to keep it simple, if you are hoping for this Sacrament for your student, we are thrilled to offer you the option. If you are thinking that your student isn’t quite ready for this Sacrament, the good news is that the Church will never require you to do something until you are ready. Again, this isn’t a “one size fits all” mentality. The Church is here to come alongside you in support of wherever you are and whatever you need.