Young and old, we are always on a journey to develop our faith further and grow a deeper connection with God. At St. Francis Xavier Parish, we have a variety of programs to help parishioners of all ages to broaden their understanding and knowledge of the Catholic faith.
The first catechists in any child’s life are the family members with whom he or she lives. What happens at home – positive and negative – provides lessons for life. In the family, faith is shared as part of the unfolding of daily life. The home or “domestic church” provides a real place where a child learns to live and understand his or her faith.
Explore the faith formation opportunities and speak with other parishioners about these and perhaps other avenues to continue growing in your love for Jesus:
Adult Christian Initiation OCIA
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process whereby adults enter the Catholic Church. OCIA classes are held weekly, and over several months those who attend the OCIA classes are educated on what the Catholic Church believes and can ask questions about those beliefs in a non-judgemental setting.
Just because you start, OCIA doesn’t mean you are committed to finishing. If you are merely curious about what Catholicism is, please feel free to come. All are welcome.
Sacramental Preparation
Sacrament Preparation is focused on forming children to receive the beautiful sacraments of initiation, First Eucharist and Confirmation. Children are eligible for both sacraments when they are in the 2nd grade, and preparation begins in the 1st grade.
Child Faith Formation
The Child Faith Formation program helps children grow in their relationship with Jesus, learn the Catholic Faith, and become active members of the Church. The program is open to children in grades 1-5 who do not attend our Catholic school. It supports parents, who are the primary catechists, by providing parish-based faith formation that strengthens what children receive at home and helps guide their life of faith in the Church.
To register, complete the registration form (Faith Formation Registration Form), and return it to the Parish office, or scan and email the form to csaunders@petoskeysfx.org. For more information, please reach out to Craig Saunders at the same email address.
She Shall Be Called Woman (SHE)
That Man Is You! (TMIY)
That Man is You! (TMIY) honestly addresses the pressures and temptations that men face in our modern culture, especially those relating to their roles as husbands and fathers. The program harmonizes current social and medical science with the teachings of the Church and the wisdom of the saints to develop the vision of man fully alive!
TMIY is an interactive men’s program to develop authentic male leaders capable of transforming themselves, their families and greater society. All men of college age and above are welcome.