Read this week's bulletin.

To the faithful parishioners of St. James Cathedral,

In my role as Vicar for Evangelization and Catechesis I speak with many pastors and directors of faith formation about the hows and whys of improving programs. One of my suggestions is: how do we involve parents in our programs? The answer seems to rest in family faith formation and whole parish family faith formation. Catholic family faith formation is a program that helps families deepen their relationship with God, learn their faith, and strengthen their family relationships. It also aims to strengthen the relationship between the parish community and parents, who are the primary witnesses of their family’s faith. Catholic family faith formation is vital to nurturing spiritual growth within a household. It involves the intentional practice of instilling religious values, beliefs, and traditions in family members, particularly children. This process includes formal religious education settings and extends to everyday life, creating a realistic approach to faith development and living in an ever-changing world

At the very heart of Catholic family faith formation is the belief that the family is the primary setting for spiritual education. Parents, guardians, grandparents, and the extended family play a crucial role as the first witnesses of faith, modeling religious practices and values through their actions and words. This modeling includes regular participation at Mass, prayer, reading of sacred scripture, and discussing important issues about faith and morality. By witnessing these practices, children learn to live their faith every day.

One of the key elements of effective Catholic family faith formation is creating a supportive and loving environment where questions and doubts can be expressed freely. Open communication about faith helps family members to explore and deepen their understanding of their beliefs. It also fosters a sense of belonging and community, as family members share their spiritual journeys and support one another.

In addition to daily prayer experiences, special religious traditions and rituals play a key role in Catholic family faith formation. Celebrating religious holidays, participating in community service, and observing rites of passage such as baptisms, confirmations, or First Communions, reinforce the importance of faith in family life. These shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen the family’s bond of spiritual unity.

Catholic family faith formation is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It must be adaptable to the unique needs and dynamics of each family. Some families may incorporate faith into their lives through storytelling, music, or art, while others may focus on service and outreach activities. The goal is to find meaningful ways to connect with faith that help all family members grow.

Catholic family faith formation is a continuous and dynamic process that shapes the spiritual foundation of family members as a whole. By fostering a nurturing environment, engaging in religious practices, and celebrating faith traditions, families can cultivate a deep and enduring faith that guides them through life’s challenges and joys. Today, let us pray especially for all our families everywhere.

Many Blessings,
Very Rev. Joseph R. Gibino, STM, Ph.D.