Youth Faith Formation
Contacts
Brenda Sevcik
Sevcik.brenda@gmail.com | 770-842-0253
Maria Idalia
mariaidalia@bellsouth.net | 678-849-2811
Faith Formation Office
(770) 745-4508 | goodshepherd@sta.org
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
(Pre-K – 6th Grade)
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a shared religious experience, taking place in a specially prepared environment for the children called the Atrium. This Montessori program recognizes the dignity of the child and their capacity to fall in love with Christ, and how children have a unique relationship with God, particularly before the age of six. Adults are called to nurture this relationship, all while directed by the Holy Spirit.
Parents are critical in this program, as with their child they embrace the awe and wonder, exploring life together with the primary sources of the bible, liturgy, and our Catholic faith. Ways to serve in this world-respected model include, but are not limited to, trained catechist, assistant, artist, woodworker, calligrapher, and sewer. Called by name to serve in any capacity? Contact Brenda at sevcik.brenda@gmail.com / (770) 842-0253.
Adult Faith Formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
In Catechesis of the Good Shepherd adults are given the opportunity to embrace a method of catechesis (or religious education) that will deepen one’s relationship with God. Catechist formation in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is both instructive as well as experiential. It captivates both the head as well as the heart. It has a holistic approach for the adult, enriching the adult in a background of scripture and liturgy, theology, and prayer, as well as the pedagogy of the young child, helping the adult to see what face of God the young child most needs in order to enter into a relationship with God. Therefore, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd requires the adult to receive training in the method in a way that is “retreat-like,” giving time and space to absorb the richness of what it means to live one’s baptismal covenant and grow in the love and knowledge of God.
We are always seeking more adults to participate into this rich faith formation opportunity. Click the buttons below for more information on how to participate.
Our Elementary Religious Education Program: Finding Faith in Life (K-5th Grade)
- The Bible is at the heart of your child’s faith formation.
- ABC’s of Biblical Literacy: Access (kids become knowledgeable and comfortable using the Bible); Big Picture (knowing and understanding the biblical story of salvation history); Context (understanding how to interpret Bible books and passages in their proper contexts)
- Catholic Children’s Bible: designed to be easy for children to read with child-friendly fonts and a young reading-level; visually rich to stimulate interest; Understand It, Live It, Tell It sections (what is Bible story about, how can kids live that message, solidify story by having kids retell it in their own words)
- Children will have a one-year subscription to the eBible (electronic version of the Catholic Children’s Bible).
- Children will be taught in age-appropriate classes (K/1 Year A, K/1 Year B, 2, 3, 4, 5)
- FFL (Finding Faith in Life) features engaged, active learning, inviting kids to move as they learn.
- eLearning lessons enrich classroom teaching through interactive activities that connect the head, heart, and hands, bridging the concepts of faith to the lives the children live.
- Parents and catechists will guide children to learn, love, and live their faith rooted in the Bible and Tradition.
- Parent Pages (in English and Spanish) sent home after each lesson to help families engage in faith.
- Three class sessions will be offered in English only for the 2023-24 year: Sunday 8:40-9:55 am; Sunday 12:30-1:45 pm; Wednesday 6:30-7:45 pm
- Family Days will be incorporated into FFL. They will include the parents during class times. Families will complete community service projects while engaging with their fellow parishioners to create a stronger STA community.
- Registration Fees: $150 for the first year in FFL; $125 for each subsequent year (additional cost covers the one-time purchase of the Catholic Children’s Bible)
Middle & High School Faith Formation
EDGE: 6th-8th Grade
As young people reach middle school, they begin to ask personal faith questions, and it is also a time when they begin to wonder about and look at their relationship with the Church. Together we will learn, celebrate, and serve others as members of our Catholic community. STA provides an opportunity to grow in faith, develop a meaningful relationship with Jesus, a better understanding of our Catholic tradition and help to plant roots for the adult years. The program will include instruction, fellowship, prayer, service, and fun.
Sessions are held in person on Sundays, from 3:15 – 4:30 PM, or 8:30 AM-9:45.
Life Teen: 9th-12th Grade
The central focus of the High School Life Teen Program is the Teen Mass on Sunday at 5:00 PM. Prior to celebrating Eucharist together, teens gather for Faith Formation from 3:15-4:30 PM, in the Parish Hall. Teens also invited to attend a dynamic Bible Study on Mondays from 7:30-8:30 PM in the Teen Room, (#217). Teens who are unable to attend on Sundays have the option to attend on Thursdays, 7:00-8:15 in the Teen Room, (#217).
The High School program flows from the Mass. Various formats are used so that all youth will experience God, Church, and community as they strengthen their knowledge of Catholic doctrine. There are also many opportunities for the youth to participate in service and social activities, as well as faith enriching events through prayer and retreats. Through their involvement in the Life Teen Program, teens may choose to receive of Confirmation at 16 years of age or older.
Coming Soon:
Covecrest Summer Camp | July 1-6, 2024
Click to Register Now