Parents are the principle and first educators of their children. Catechism of the Catholic Church 1653

The family home is “the domestic church” where children receive the first proclamation of the faith. Catechism of the Catholic Church 1666

The Family of Faith Ministry (FFM) at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church assists parents live out the commitment they made at the child’s Baptism, when they accepted the “responsibility of training them in the practice of the faith.” (Rite of Baptism for Children)  In our commitment to partner with and support parents in this responsibility the FFM offers the A Family of Faith program to provide the framework for parents to pass on the faith to their children.  This engaging program nurtures faith and helps build community through monthly meetings where families learn together in small groups with other parish families.

As Christians we are to let our light shine before others, that they may see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven.  In Sacred Scripture we are called the “salt of the earth” and the “light in the world.”  These elements describe the divine mission given to us:  to lead others to Christ.  We do this by putting our faith into action.  In other words, living the mission with Christ.   

Participation in our family approach to faith formation actively engages both children and parents.  It provides the training ground for children to demonstrate their faith in action.

Essential first components to faith formation include:  participation in Sunday & Holy Day Masses, regular confession throughout the year, daily prayer/devotions at home, and the practice of stewardship (time, talent and treasure).

FFM faith formation training requires:

1. Weekly, family attendance at the 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Family of Faith Mass.
2. Serving during FFM Mass as greeters, choir members, ushers, lectors, altar servers and offertory bearers.
3. Attendance to the monthly sessions as listed on the FFM calendar.
4. Participating in Faith Family stewardship activities according to FFM Faith Family schedule.
5. Teach at-home lessons following the A Family of Faith Parent’s Guide