Faith Formation: A Path to Discipleship and Mission

Summer blessings to you and your families!

As we prepare for the new year’s Faith Formation cycle, I am filled with gratitude for the many ways our community continues to walk together on the path to discipleship. This journey is not just about receiving sacraments or learning doctrine; it is a living invitation to embrace discipleship in our everyday lives, to be transformed by Christ, and to become witnesses to his love in the world. Gone are the days when we viewed Faith Formation as a preparation for the Sacraments. I envision this program as a Path to Discipleship, and I encourage all of you to sign up your children for any grade level they are currently enrolled in. Let us focus on making disciples who happen to receive three beautiful Sacraments on their journey: First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation.

The Sacraments are the means of Salvation that our Lord Jesus Christ entrusted to his Church on earth. Now, the Sacraments are not a goal or an end to achieve but rather the Graces we receive from God on our journey to heaven to help us fulfil our call to holiness. So, we are called to be disciples of Christ who live profoundly the Sacramental life of the Church. I envision the Faith Formation Program in our Catholic Community as A Path to Discipleship and Mission. I want every child who participates in our Faith Formation Program to become a disciple. From K-8th Grade and High School programs, this journey will provide children with the tools they need to live their faith, deepen their prayer life, get closer to Christ, strengthen their relationship with Christ, and live in the world as faithful disciples.

At the heart of this journey are you, the parents and grandparents. As the first catechists, you lay the foundation for faith in your homes, the “domestic church.” Your love, witness, and daily example are the seeds of discipleship planted in your children’s hearts. By nurturing faith through prayer, conversation, and participation in the life of the Church, you help your children discover their call to follow Christ and share his love with others. Your mission extends beyond your household; it is a spark that can ignite faith in our wider community. I invite you also to become part of your children’s journey and strengthen your relationship with Christ.

Faith formation is not just a program; it is the heart of our mission as Church: to make disciples of all nations, starting in our own homes and neighborhoods. Thank you for your commitment, your support, and your witness. Together, let us embrace the call to discipleship, supporting one another as we grow in faith, hope, and love.

I am also profoundly grateful to our dedicated catechists, who partner with families to form disciples rooted in Christ and ready for mission. Their commitment is a gift to our parishes and the future of our Church.

Blessings,

Fr. Juan M Camacho

For more information on our Faith Formation, contact Nancy or Amber.