Generations of Faith

Generations of Faith Brochure 2009-2010

Generations of Faith (GOF) is a new catechetical model of faith formation for the entire parish from age four through adult. It is a way for everyone to learn about the Catholic faith in an engaging, enjoyable, and powerful way. GOF fosters lifelong learning and growing together as a community of faith-filled believers. Events are focused on a theme, which begins with a parish meal followed by common prayer and an overview of the lesson. After that, break-out sessions are held according to life stages, ending with a conclusion, and closing prayer. Home kits are provided as a follow-up for home use.

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Frequently Asked Questions about GOF

What is Generations of Faith?

Generations of Faith is an interactive program of lifelong learning in which all generations come together on Sunday morning or Monday evening to eat, sing, learn, pray – and grow in faith within the context of family and community. It is practiced at St. Sebastian and at hundreds of other parishes around the country.

What is the vision for Generations of Faith?

Because faith formation is a life-long process, ongoing participation in the worship and life of the Church is essential. Faith is to be integrated into our lives, to inform and guide our actions. The Catechetical Directory of the United States Bishop emphasizes community catechesis within the context of family.

Who participates in Generations of Faith?

EVERYONE, EVERYONE, EVERYONE! We welcome all people, no matter how your family is structured. You may be a single parent, a family with a toddler, an empty nester, a single young adult, a newly married couple, a widow or widower, a family with teens or young children in Catholic or public schools. As a family of faith, we realize the importance of the wisdom of the elders in the community, as well as the innocence of the youngsters, and how we need each other. We would like every parish member to attend, so we can learn from each other and grow together.

When do we participate in Generations of Faith?

Participants can choose to attend Generations of Faith events once a month on Sunday mornings beginning at 9:00 A.M., after the 8:00 A.M. liturgy. Another option is to come Monday evening starting at 5:30 P.M., as the same event is repeated the next day.

For families: These additional faith formation classes are on another Sunday morning per month for kids in grades K4-8th from 9:05 – 10:20 A.M.

For adults: Parents and other interested adults attend a Scripture study session using the Sunday readings during the same time period for adult formation. Families will gather together for the last five minutes of the period for joint prayer.

What else do I need to know about the Faith Formation program?

Our program is a blended one, with Generations of Faith events once a month and one other faith formation class per month.

For families: These additional faith formation classes are on another Sunday morning per month for kids in grades K4-8th from 9:10 – 10:20 A.M.

For adults: Parents and other interested adults attend a Scripture study session using the Sunday readings during the same time period for adult formation. Families will gather together for the last few minutes of the period for a blessing.

For High School Youth: High school classes take place one additional Sunday evening per month.

For Jr. High and High School Youth: Service experiences are a critical piece of the formation process.

What about the content? Will we learn about our Catholic faith, prayers, traditions, and practices?

Yes. Through a six-year cycle we will cover the full content of our Catholic faith. The curriculum is based on six catechetical themes: liturgical year, sacraments, the creed, morality, prayer and spirituality, and social justice. This year the overall theme of “Building the City of God” will encompass topics from the six themes. The additional Sunday morning classes will further teach to religion standards of the Milwaukee Archdiocese.

What about Sacramental Preparation?

Confirmation preparation classes are held on Sunday mornings during Generations of Faith events, so that interested families can attend GOF together. Sacramental preparation for Reconciliation and Eucharist will continue to be separate programs. Families whose children are in the sacramental program are expected to participate in GOF events and additional faith formation classes if their children attend public school or private nonreligious school, and encouraged to participate if they attend St. Sebastian School. At least one year of active participation in a faith formation program is required in the year before sacramental preparation begins.

How can I get involved?

There are many opportunities to be of service to Generations of Faith. You can join the teams of planners, catechists/aides, greeters, meal preparers, set-up or clean-up, child care givers, service projects, prayer and music, environment, publicity technology or office help. Simply indicate on your registration form your preference.

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We are many parts.

We are all one body.

For more information or to get involved, contact Joan Plumley,

St. Sebastian Director of Faith Formation

414-453-7150 or

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