Youth Formation and Activities
CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a religious formation that began in Rome during the 1950’s by two women: Sofia Cavalletti (A Hebrew Scripture Scholar) and Gianna Gobbi (a Montessori instructor). Together they developed an approach to religious education by observing children’s reactions to the bible and to liturgy. Today we use a “curriculum” that was assembled that carries the name Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. A Level 1 atrium, ages 3-6 has been added to St. John the Evangelist faith formation curriculum and will meet weekly. Grades 1-3 Boys and Girls will meet weekly and learn about Scripture through the "Great Bible Adventure for Kids" along with Prayer and Catholic Traditions and Customs. Grades 4-5 Boys and Girls will meet weekly and learn about Scripture through the "Great Bible Adventure for Kids" along with prayer and Catholic Customs and Traditions.
1ST HOLY COMMUNION
Parents are the primary educators of their children in the ways of faith; therefore, parents will meet with the pastor and youth minister to learn about the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. During the month, they work with their children at home through readings, activities, and prayer. We will have 2 retreat before the youth receive the sacraments, one on Reconciliation and the other on Holy Eucharist. These retreats are for the students and parents.
YDisciple
YDisciple is a Catholic Youth Ministry initiative powered by the Augustine Institute in Denver, Colorado. It is our firm conviction that the future of the Church depends on good youth ministry. Future priestly and religious vocations, future marriages and families, future strong Catholics . . . all grow exponentially when a solid foundation is experienced during the formative teenage years.
We Live our Faith (7-8 Grade)
Our program for middle school students includes an integrated approach which engages our teens with a comprehensive experience of our Catholic faith. The program moves away from a strictly classroom model of learning and attempts to develop their experience of Jesus Christ alive in the Church’s Sacraments, Scriptures, Traditions, and community.
Confirmation
Confirmation is offered to all high school students who show a desire to enter into the fullness of the Catholic faith through the anointing with the Holy Spirit. They must be participants in Lifeteen and attend eight special sessions in preparation for the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation. They meet regularly with their sponsors and attend a special retreat day.
