Cathetical Ministries

Alpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed family setting. The Alpha course meets once a week for 10 weeks and concludes in an amazing one-day or weekend getaway. In each session people enjoy learning in an open and friendly atmosphere where no questions about life or God is seen as too simple or hostile. Alpha is for anyone who thinks there is more to life than meets the eye.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to the religious formation of children. It highlights essential aspects of the Christian message that nurture the child’s need to love and be loved and the child’s capacity to enjoy God’s presence in her/his life. It is rooted in the Bible, the liturgy of the Church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. One of the key features of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is the use of catechetical materials specially designed for children. Another feature is the use of a prepared environment, called the Atrium, to foster children’s religious growth. We are in need of volunteers who enjoy children and who want to help them to know and love God more deeply.

This ministry presents the Liturgy of the Word adapted to the lives and experiences of young children from kindergarten to grade 5 preparing them for the full participation in the liturgy. Adults and school teachers are needed for all our Sunday Eucharist masses and are scheduled for one mass a month.

The RCIA is a ministry that prepares adults to become Catholics. In this journey of Christian initiation, the Catechumens (those seeking conversion to the Catholic faith) are provided, not just with the acquaintance of doctrine and precepts, but also with the experience of apprenticeship in the whole of Christian life. One may join this ministry as a Catechist who has the indispensable role of conducting training based on prepared materials, or as a Sponsor who serve as a friend, companion, guide and role model to the person undertaking the journey of Christian initiation. This ministry requires a strong commitment for attendance over the course of six months.

This ministry is the preparation of children for their First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. The program involves the participation of the children’s entire family creating many components for service opportunity. This may include meal preparation and clean up, registration support, facilitators for small group discussions and childcare. If you feel you can serve in any of these areas your contribution would be greatly appreciated.