Faith Formation Director of Faith Formation: - Jon Robson

As a teacher it helps to have my students think of “what if’s” in life. Recently, I asked them the question: “If you could have any superpower what would it be”? The answers were wonderful. Some said they would like to be invisible or invulnerable or super strength or x-ray vision. The #1 answer was being able to fly. One answer, however, really struck the class and they all wanted to be able to have this power. He wanted to speak to anyone in their own language, especially his dog, his cat and even the birds of the air, and considering today’s Gospel, we find that God did give this power to His apostles on Pentecost. “Are not all these people who are speaking Galileans? Then how does each of us hear them in his native language? We are Parthians, Medes, and Elamites, inhabitants of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the districts of Libya near Cyrene, as well as travelers from Rome, both Jews and converts to Judaism, Cretans and Arabs, yet we hear them speaking in our own tongues of the mighty acts of God.” We may not be able to speak to everyone in their own tongue, but we can all speak the universal language of God, spelled out in one word, “Love”. Love of the Lord, of Family, of those in our Community and of those we meet every day. When people meet you do they hear you speak that language of Love and know that the Spirit of Pentecost lives on in you? 

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.