Faith Formation Ministry

Orientation is provided by the Director of Faith Formation, Susie Osacho, 612-869-2426, ext. 120, at the start of the school year. Periodic re-training may be required for some ministries. All volunteers working with children must pass a background check, undergo Archdiocesan VIRTUS training, and read and sign the Code of Conduct prior to beginning a volunteer ministry. There can be no exceptions.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLW)
This program takes place during the 11am Mass and is offered to children between the ages of 4 and 10 years. The adult leader processes out with the children participants and breaks open the Word of God with them in an age-appropriate way.

• Adult Prayer leaders - Leads the group and directs the Assistant. Commitment is approximately once a month during 11:00am Mass, with 1 hour preparation time prior to each session.
• CLW Assistants - Adults or High School students to assist with group management. Commitment is approximately once a month during 11:00am Mass.

 
Sunday Faith Formation Program, Grades 1-8

The following positions are needed 3-4 Sundays a month, from late-September through early May, to assist with Faith Formation. Classes are held from 9:15am - 10:45am.

• Catechists (Teachers): Adults or young adults who share the faith with a grade level and manage a classroom for learning. Teacher's manuals with class session outlines, as well as other helpful resources, will be provided at a Catechist Training session, along with ongoing support by the Director of Faith Formation. Amount of preparation time dependent on the grade level, with 1½ hours on-site, 3-4 Sundays a month from late-September through the end of April. Occasional weeknight meetings and training workshops may also be offered. Grade levels are as follows:
  • Elementary (Grades 1-6)
  • Middle School (Grades 7-8)
  • NOTE: PreK-K class takes place DURING 11am Mass

• Substitute Catechists: Adult catechists and older teens available to fill in on an as needed basis. Resources will be provided in advance.

• Classroom Aids:  Adults and/or teens are needed in each classroom to assist children and catechists, as well as help with snacks. Those with special ed certification and/or the ability to assist special needs students are also needed. 1.5 hours per week.

• Hall Monitors: Adults to work 1-2 Sundays a month in rotation to check-in families at the entrances, monitor the hallways and maintain the safety of all students. 8:50am - 10:45am.

• Sunday Morning Parent Formation/ Reflection: Dedicated time for parents and other adults interested in deepening your own understanding of how to read, reflect and understand Scripture (Bible readings) while children are in their own small groups takes place 9:30-10:45am.

• Assistant to Faith Formation Director: Adult or teen to assist FFD in setting up classrooms amd hospitality areas prior to class (making coffee, setting out catechetical materials and snack items), and/or putting away catechetical and hospitality materials after the 11am Mass, ensuring classrooms are returned to order (light cleaning of floors and desks/tables) after classes.

With the start of a new school year comes many opportunities to give back, be of service to others, and grow in your own relationship with God and others. Why wait until some day? Prayerfully reflect on your gifts and talents, then read through the following:

… Am I a Good Listener? 
Consider getting involved in Children’s Faith Formation and/or Youth Ministries.

… Am I/have I been a Teacher / Mentor / Coach?
There are a number of available roles in Faith Formation ministries. Lesson plans, materials and training provided. Substitute positions are also available.

… Am I Kind, Caring and enjoy 1:1 interaction?
Have you thought of spending time with special needs children?

… Am I Creative, Patient and love being around children?
Consider serving as a PreK-Kindergarten helper, Liturgy of the Word for Children leader or classroom helper.

… Am I a Parent looking for time and ways to grow in my own faith?
Consider participating or leading  our Sunday morning parent reflection time or being a Confirmation sponsor.

… Am I Funny, Competitive, and Non-judgmental?
Consider assisting with Youth Ministry.

… Do I Want to give back / Share my faith with others?
Consider being an RCIA or Confirmation sponsor.
 
Remember, God does not call the qualified. God qualifies those who are called. Give back and grow in your own faith while learning from and walking with others as a family of faith. Contact Susie Osacho at sosacho@strichards.com or 612-869-2426, ext120