Faith Formation Director of Faith Formation: - Jon Robson

Parents, We’re Here to Help!

We just finished a 10-day visit with our 3- and 6-year-old grandsons so their parents, my son and his wife, could take their first
vacation together, post children This followed a visit from my daughters 10- and 14-year-old sons just a couple of weeks earlier. Our
kids live outside of Baltimore and NYC so visits with them are uncommon. Well, my wife, Ann, and I agreed that we are seriously out f practice at keeping up with four very active young people. Computers, cell phones, streaming programs, visiting pets and very active summer camp schedules all add up to make life seem so much more chaotic than when our children were young.

Parents today have so much to do and so little time, “What’s a Parent to Do?” Often helping kids to develop a strong Faith life
can be pushed aside by competing activities. So, it seemed a good time to share that we understand and are here to help. Starting
next month, we enter a new year in our Faith Formation Program. There are Faith Formation classes for children from Kindergarten to
High School on Sunday mornings from 9:30 to 10:30. There are also First Communion and Penance classes for our 2nd graders and
Confirmation classes for our 9 and 10th graders. Please refer to our website to find out all our offerings, and a calendar for the next 9
months as well as fillable registration forms. As classes start in 4 weeks, please return the forms as soon as you can so we can order
the necessary materials .

Jon

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.