ADULT FORMATION CLASSES

Why Catholic?
Adult faith formation following the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Creed, Sacraments, Moral Life, Prayer Life. Usually 6 weeks during Lent and 6 weeks in fall. Available in both English and Spanish. In 2008, the focus is on the Sacraments and Liturgy. Watch bulletin for possible Small Church groups. Coordinator: Candy Johnson (English)

Apologetics - Room 113
Sunday, 10:15 a.m. Examines our faith through book/video study, topic presentation and open discussion. Current discussion: "Catholic Because..." Coordinator: Paul Warren

Catechism of the Catholic Church – Church Office (English and Spanish) Sunday, 10:15 a.m. Study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Coordinator: Kathy Matthews

(in)words - Room 114
Sunday, 10:15 a.m. Reading and discussion group. Currently reading "Mere Christianity" by C.S. Lewis. Coordinator: Daniel Bertalotto

Adult Formation - Spanish - Room 301
Sunday 12:45 p.m. Different topics.

Scripture Study - Room 204
Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Little Rock Scripture Study video series, book study and discussion. Coordinator: Claudette Warren

Wednesday Morning Bible Study – Room 114
Wednesday, 10:00 a.m., Currently participating in Why Catholic? Coordinator: Pauline Keegan

SCC ( Small Church Community)
Wednesday 7:00 p.m. – Travels (no set place). Coordinator: Amanda Johnson

Singles Small Church Community – Off Campus
1 st & 3 rd Monday, , 6:30 p.m. Study and discussion on Vatican II documents. Coordinator: Suzanne Krumpelman

Ministry of Mothers Sharing (MOMS)
Catholic mothers sharing the faith as they develop a greater awareness of their spirituality as a mother and an appreciation of their ministry of motherhood. Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. Location varies. Coordinator: Brenda Peralo

Natural Family Planning - Seasonal
Learn the Church’s only approved method of family planning. Contact parish offices for dates. Coordinators: Tom & Beth Parks

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH

Parish Religious Education (Pre-K – 8th grade)

• For children age 4 by September 15 through 8th Grade
• Meets on Sunday at 10:15 a.m. (AM Religious Education) & 12:45 p.m. (PM Religious Education)
• Use books approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
• Primarily for children NOT receiving religious instruction at St. Joseph Catholic School, however all are welcome
• 8 th grade Religious Education required for first year preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation
• Two years of religious education required for preparation of the Sacraments of Penance and Eucharist. See 1 st Confession and 1 st Communion in Sacramental Preparation for more information.

Vacation Bible School (VBS)
Lori Mahler
A one week morning session offered during the summer (July) for ages 4 through 4th grade. Volunteers are needed 5 th grade through adult.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

First Confession and First Holy Communion
In accordance with Diocesan guidelines, participation in formal religious education for two years (usually 1st and 2nd grade) via Sunday religious education classes or St. Joseph School religion classes is required. In addition, the child and at least one parent are required to attend Family Sessions once a month throughout the second year of preparation. Contact Suzanne Krumpelman.

Confirmation
In accordance with Diocesan guidelines participation in formal religious education for two years (8th and 9th grade) is required. In addition, the youth will receive a special preparation and instruction in the Sacrament of Confirmation. Contact Elizabeth Garrett.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Adults inquiring into the Catholic faith or Catholics needing the Sacraments of Confirmation and/or Eucharist gather to learn the basic teachings of the Catholic Church and, if feel called to be received fully into the Catholic Church, through the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism or Profession of Faith, Confirmation, Eucharist). Contact: Molly or Dick Lloyd.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC)
Prepares children over the age of reason (seven years of age), who have not been baptized or children baptized in another denomination and wish to become Catholic for the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism or Profession of Faith, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Contact Suzanne Krumpelman.