Faith Formation - Introduciton

In its basic sense, Catholic Faith Formation is a form of evangelization. Evangelization is the fundamental mission of the Church. It describes all the ways the Church—including clergy, religious, and all the baptized faithful—teaches, celebrates, and witnesses to the gospel message with the aim of conforming hearts and minds to Jesus Christ. Evangelization includes an introduction to the gospel message through word and deed with a focus on receiving the gift of faith. Faith Formation primarily focuses on deepening an initial conversion to faith. It incorporates the catechetical, liturgical, and pastoral ministries. Because it is a form of evangelization, Faith Formation is a lifelong process.

Jesus formed his disciples by making known to them the various dimensions of the Kingdom of God.... Christ's method of formation was accomplished by diverse yet inter-related tasks. His example is the most fruitful inspiration for effective catechesis today because it is integral to formation in the Christian faith.

Faith must be known, celebrated, lived and expressed in prayer. So, catechesis comprises six fundamental tasks, each of which is related to an aspect of faith in Christ....

  • Faith formation* promotes knowledge of the faith.
  • Faith formation* promotes knowledge of the meaning of the Liturgy and the Sacraments.
  • Faith formation* promotes moral formation in Jesus Christ.
  • Faith formation* teaches the Christian how to pray with Christ.
  • Faith formation* prepares the Christian to live in community and to participate actively in the Life and mission of the Church.
  • Faith formation* promotes a missionary spirit that prepares the faithful to be present as Christians in society.

St. William Parish strives to serve the parish needs of Catholic formation and spiritual development of all its members. – We recognize that parents are the primary educators of the faith, and our goal is to assist them. – St. William Parish offers a variety of Religious Education Programs and Sacramental Preparation for children age 4 through 8th grade, young people, and adults.  

Contact the Faith Formation Office at 248-624-1371.