Philosophy of Faith Formation Statement

Philosophy of Faith Formation Statement

Philosophy of Faith Formation
St. Joseph Parish
Cottleville, Missouri

We, members of St. Joseph Catholic Church, believe that we are each called to develop and deepen the faith with which we have been gifted. In the tradition of Catechesi Tradendae, our goal is, with God’s help, to nourish the Christian life of the faithful of all ages and abilities. Faith formation is a matter of nurturing the growth of the seeds of faith sown by the Holy Spirit at the time of baptism. We believe that faith is nurtured through knowledge of our tradition, the experiences of belonging to the community of believers, service to all God’s people, and participation in public and private worship and prayer life of the church.

We acknowledge the shared responsibilities of all members of our parish to develop and provide opportunities for continued faith development for the immediate faith community as well as for the wider community. “Through education and formation the Church seeks to proclaim the Good News and to translate this proclamation into action.”(To Teach as Jesus Did, #7)

We believe that faith formation begins with the family, the domestic church, and that parents are the foremost educators of their children. “Since parents have conferred life on their children, they have a most solemn obligation to educate their offspring … For it devolves on parents to create a family atmosphere so animated with love and reverence for God and men that a well-rounded personal and social development will be fostered among the children.” (Declaration on Christian Education, Article 3)

We believe that faith development is a lifelong journey in relationship with Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother. The tradition and the faith which have been given to us as gifts must be shared through the myraid activities and opportunities within the life of St. Joseph Parish. We are the bearers of the Good News to a world which desperately hungers for God’s word, hope, consolation and forgiveness. Faith development is a call to discipleship, and a way of life centered on the Good News of salvation in Christ Jesus.