As Catholic Christians, our faith formation is a lifelong process, one that takes place within the context of the larger community. Ideally, because of the liturgies and celebrations we participate in, the classes we take, and the way we live our lives, we will continue to be formed in our faith for as long as we live.
Some Characteristics of Formation:
· Sunday Mass is the most important gathering of the Christian community.
· The total parish is involved in learning and sharing about the faith. Everyone is formed for apostolic work. Every age in the parish is involved, not just children and youth.
· Creating and fostering a Catholic atmosphere in our homes is very important. The home is where faith is formed on a continuing basis. Families are the domestic church.
Formation happens in many ways:
· Most especially during Liturgy
· During the homily at Mass
· In preparing for sacraments
· In structured sessions and classes
· In the everyday life of the home
· By sharing faith in small groups
· In service for others, whether as an individual or group, a parish setting or in the family
· In discussions with others.