Adult faith formation, by which people consciously grow in the life of Christ through experience, reflection, prayer, and study, must be 'the central task in [this] catechetical enterprise,' becoming 'the axis around which revolves the catechesis of childhood and adolescence as well as that of old age.' This can be done specifically through developing in adults a better understanding of and participation in the full sacramental life of the Church.Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us, n. 5
In their Pastoral Letter from 1999, Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops describe the importance of faith formation for adults.
It can be difficult to deepen our faith as adults. Competing responsibilities can deveop - often unnoticed - into a situation where it seems impossible to prioritize full, conscious, and active participation in our faith within our parish communities.
The call, then, is to attract, encourage, and invite adults to participate in the parish in new ways. Robust faith formation for adults communicates that no "end" to learning exists because we can always draw nearer to God and the Church. Strong formation for adults not only benefits the adults themselves, but also allows youth to see that they have a Church that will accompany them as they grow up.
This page offers resources to parishes as they build this crucial ministry. In addition to the resources you find here, you can also find resources specific to the formation of lay ministers and the ministry of Marriage Accompaniment under the "Office of Pastoral Formation" tab.
Nothing is planned in the near future. Please check back...
Please email Theresa if you are a lay minister who would like to participate in book studies, online formation opportunities, and small groups.