St. Mary's
In the Catholic Church, faith formation is the lifelong process of becoming and living as a disciple of Jesus Christ within the Church. It involves growing in belief, prayer, moral life, and participation in the sacraments, guided by Scripture and Church teaching.
Faith Formation is rooted in four interconnected pillars (from the Catechism):
- Profession of Faith - Learning what Catholics believe—Creed, Scripture, and Church teachings.
- Celebration of the Sacraments - Growing through participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation.
- Life in Christ (Moral Formation) - Living the faith through love, virtue, justice, and service to others.
- Christian Prayer - Developing a personal and communal prayer life (Mass, personal prayer, Scripture, devotions).
More than classroom learning...
Lifelong and for all ages
Faith Formation is not just for children in religious education
The Church emphasizes that faith formation is:
- Relational (centered on a relationship with Christ)
- Communal (formed within the Church)
- Missionary (leading to service and evangelization)
Faith Formation is the lifelong journey of growing in relationship with Jesus Christ through the teachings of the Church, the sacraments, prayer, and life in the Christian community.
