Faith Formation Director of Faith Formation: - Jon Robson

Our God is an Awesome God!

Our Gospel today speaks of the unbelievable generosity of our God. We read of the 5000 men He fed. However, the Gospel does not
take into account the families that must have come with the men, meaning He actually fed many more than the 5,000. Yet He not only
fed them but He actually does this 2 separate times in the Gospels.
This was not the only time He showed His generosity. At the Wedding Feast at Cana, Mary asks Him to help the couple who were
about to be embarrassed by running out of wine. He responds that it is not yet His time and Mary simply says to the servants, “Do
whatever He tells you to do”. Jesus then changes 180 gallons of water into the wine and not just any wine but according to the wine
steward it was the finest wine he had ever tasted.
On the night of the Last Supper he shows that He has no limits to His kindness when He offers us His ultimate gift. He changes bread
and wine into His Body and Blood, giving His disciples the ultimate gift of Himself in the Eucharist.
It is this gift we receive every time we go to Mass. It is no longer bread and wine, as many believe, but the actual Body and Blood of
Christ we receive in the Eucharist. Think of it, we are actually taking the Lord into our bodies and just like the food that fed the bodies
of the multitudes, He is now feeding our souls and filling us with His life. Jon

Jon Robson, DRE
St. Mary’s   St. Mary and Martha   Our Lady of the Snow
Good Shepherd Catholic Community   Faith Formation Office
299 Clark St. Auburn NY 13021    Office-315.252.7593   cell-315.277.0050

Faith Formation at Good Shepherd Catholic Community

Faith Formation is at the heart of our mission at Good Shepherd Catholic Community, guiding individuals and families to deepen their relationship with Christ, grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith, and live as disciples in the world.
We offer a variety of programs and opportunities for parishioners of all ages to journey together in faith, from young children just beginning to explore their beliefs to adults seeking to enrich their spiritual lives.

Our Mission

The goal of Faith Formation is to nurture a lifelong love of God, a vibrant faith community, and a commitment to live out the Gospel in everyday life. Through teaching, prayer, and service, we seek to:

  • Inspire Growth in Faith: Helping parishioners grow in their understanding of Catholic teachings and traditions.
  • Encourage Active Discipleship: Providing opportunities for individuals to live out their faith in meaningful ways.
  • Build Community: Creating a supportive and welcoming environment where everyone feels connected to their spiritual family.

Programs We Offer

Children and Youth

  • Religious Education (Grades K-8)
    A dynamic program that introduces children to the foundations of the Catholic faith, including prayer, sacraments, and Bible stories, in a fun and engaging environment.

  • Sacramental Preparation
    Programs to prepare children and youth for the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation. These programs involve both classroom learning and family participation.

  • Youth Ministry
    Opportunities for teens to grow in their faith through retreats, service projects, social events, and leadership development.

Adults

  • Adult Faith Formation
    Programs and workshops designed to deepen understanding of Catholic teaching, Scripture, and spirituality. Topics may include Bible studies, Catholic traditions, and contemporary issues in faith.

  • RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults)
    For those interested in joining the Catholic Church or completing their sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Eucharist, or Confirmation). This program offers a welcoming pathway to explore and embrace the Catholic faith.

  • Small Faith Groups
    Gatherings for adults to explore faith in a more intimate setting, fostering relationships and spiritual growth through discussion, prayer, and shared experiences.

Family Involvement

We believe that faith is nurtured most effectively within the family. That’s why we actively encourage parents and guardians to participate in their child’s faith journey, offering resources and events that foster faith in the home. From family retreats to service opportunities, there’s something for everyone.

Special Opportunities

Throughout the year, we host special events and programs to enrich the faith lives of our parishioners:

  • Retreats and Missions
  • Vacation Bible School
  • Seasonal Faith Programs during Advent and Lent
  • Service Projects and Outreach Opportunities

Join Us!

Faith Formation is a lifelong journey, and there is always a place for you here at Good Shepherd Catholic Community. Whether you’re new to the faith, returning after time away, or looking to deepen your existing spiritual life, our programs are designed to meet you where you are and help you grow.

For more information or to register for our Faith Formation programs, please contact the parish office or visit our website. Together, let us grow as disciples of Christ, building a stronger faith community united in love and service.