“Were not our hearts burning [within us] while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?” (Lk 24:320)

This Scripture verse comes from the Emmaus Story at the end of Luke’s Gospel where Jesus is walking with two disciples after the crucifixion. This scripture verse was chosen by the Bishops of the United States to open the document on adult faith formation. Through it we get the full sense of what adult faith formation is: Unpacking the Good News through sharing faith with others.

Below are listed the opportunities for your involvement in this most important ministry.

RCIA

Through Christian initiation, adults hear the mystery of Christ and enter into a way of faith and conversion through the power of the Holy Spirit. As catechists and sponsors we represent the Church and the Parish in welcoming, encouraging, teaching and mentoring these adults.   There are two primary ways that one can participate in this ministry.

1. Team Member and Catechist: The Catechist’s job is to present four or five times a year on some subject often related to the Sunday Scriptures and to Lead the Dismissal (Discussion on the Scriptures during Sunday Mass) also four or five times a year. Materials and resource material is provided for each lesson. There are 8 to 10 members of the RCIA Team
   
2. Sponsor: The sponsor’s job is to companion with their catechumen or candidate on the journey from inquirer to reception of the sacraments. They are to communicate weekly with their catechumen or candidate answering questions as they are able and to help them to get to know the parish and activities.

If you are interested in working with or knowing more about the RCIA please contact us.

Small Faith-Sharing Group Facilitators

Small Faith-Sharing Groups are the most effective process for adult faith formation. Facilitators while learning themselves, keep the group on task and make sure that all are heard from. Facilitators are not required to be teachers. Their skill is hospitality and the ability to lead a discussion as outlined in the various materials for the groups   The Cathedral has several types of small groups. They are Little Rock Scripture Study, Living the Eucharist, Parent Preperation for the Baptism of their Children and Landings. Each of these will run from 6 to 12 weeks depending on various requirements. We need between 28 and 38 facilitators each year.

If you are interested in being a small group leader or want to learn more about it then contact us.

Web Development for Adult faith Formation

The Cathedral webpage contains a section on adult faith formation. It is split up into various demographics. Each of these demographics has their own set of characteristics, needs and desires. It only makes sense that there then be small web teams that would concentrate on their group. The three groups that we are currently working to serve are: Young Adults, Families and Mature Adults. The Web development groups author the pages under their jurisdiction curating quality material that is already on the web to assist those who are unable to attend gathered faith formation events at the parish. Web Page skills are not required.

If you are interested in helping out with the online adult faith formation web page please contact us.