Elementary
Faith Formation
Children’s
Christian Formation Sessions
Children in first through fifth grades a time to experience the Gospel message
through proclamation of the Word and faith sharing experiences in a supportive
grade-level setting. We use Call to Faith by Harcourt Religion to
provide a solid foundation of Scripture and Tradition, a rich diversity of
prayer, and a sequence of activities that are developmentally appropriate.
The following catechetical principles shape
our program:
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Conversion is at the heart of all catechetical efforts, we strive
to form disciples who want to follow in Jesus’ footsteps.
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Belief in the importance of life-long catechesis is promoted
through interesting and inspiring stories of faith and including information
for parents
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Recognition of the call to all the Baptized to hand on faith is reflected
in the large number of volunteers and the efforts for education for parents.
To do
this we multiple sources of Catholic wisdom and experience:
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SCRIPTURE, which in integrated into the Call to Faith
series and used for instruction, reflection, sharing and prayer.
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DOCTRINE is used to help students, catechists and families
appreciate the Church’s teachings as they are applied to our daily lives.
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FEASTS and SEASONS of the Church are celebrated with music, prayer
and ritual actions that draw children into the liturgical life of the Church.
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CUSTOMS and CELEBRATIONS are included into the core curriculum to
make the Call to Faith program our own.
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CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING is directly addressed in the “Faith in
Action” section of each lesson. Age appropriate lessons correlate the scripture
and doctrine with key Catholic Social Teaching themes.
Childrenpreparing for sacraments participate in a program of preparation which is
family-centered. Recognizing that the parent is the primary catechist for their
children, St. Gabriel Parish enables the parents to prepare their children by
providing high quality resources, support, and weekly review of lessons during
the preparation period. Additionally, the parish provides sacrament retreats
for both parents and children. For
sacrament information click here. Sacraments preparation Information
Augmenting our formation program are:
- Children's Liturgy of the Word Sundays at the 8:30 A.m. Mass.
- Vacation Bible School
June 8-12—watch for updates
- Fun
at Church Days—where children can spend a Saturday doing theme related
activities on the Parish campus. These
are held periodically, and announced in the bulletin and at the formation
sessions.
Volunteers are always needed and welcomed. If you are called to
serve in this critical ministry, please contact the formation office to learn
more.
For
more information, call the office at 480-595-0883 or E-Mail Formation
Updated 2/6/9