What is Family Formation?

Simply put formation is the intentional education of an individual in the faith. Each of us at our birth are given a conscience by God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes our conscience as a, "voice, ever calling him to love what is good and to avoid evil...His conscience is man's most secret core and his sanctuary. There he is alone with God whose voice echoes in his depths." (CCC 1776). 

While our conscience is planted in our hearts by God, like a seed in a garden, it must be cultivated in order to bear fruit to it's fullest. The Catechism says, "Conscience must be informed and moral judgements enlightened...The education of the conscience is indispensable for human beings what are subjected to negative influences and tempted by sin to prefer their own judgements and to reject authoritative teaching." (CCC 1783). This is why St. Paul encourages the Romans to "be transformed by the renewal of your mind." (Rom 12:2). 

This process of forming our conscience is a life long project, but it must begin as a child and it must begin within the home. Parents you are tasked by God with the beautiful responsibility of forming your children! "'The role of parents in education is of such importance that it is almost impossible to provide and accurate substitute.' The right and duty of parents to educate their children to fulfill God's law." (CCC 2221). This is the beauty of your vocation as parents, your role to educate and form your children is irreplaceable!

Now this mission may seem daunting but know you are not alone! This is why God gave us The Church. It is the Church's role is to offer Grace though the Sacraments. Archbishop Hebda writes in his letter to families, "If we are able to accept that being a faithful Catholic parent...is a calling from God and originates in his plan, we can be confident that He will bestow on us the grace we need to live out that vocation and empower  our cooperation." (Only One Thing is Necessary, 48). Run as a family to the font of God's grace offered to us in the sacraments. The Eucharist and Confession empower us to live as the saints we are called to be!

The Church also provides the Sacraments of Christian Initiation which bring your children fully into relationship with Christ and His Church. Here at Saint Anne's it is our goal to support you as you prepare your children to receive the sacraments of First-Communion and Confirmation. "By means of these sacraments of Christian Initiation, they thus receive in increasing measure the treasures of the divine life and advance for the perfection of charity." (CCC 1212). We do this by providing you with resources to use in the home, and meeting with you to help prepare your children to receive these sacraments. 

If you are looking for resources for First-Communion and Confirmation or looking for more general formation resources please click on the tabs on the top right. 

If you have any questions on the Faith Formation process please feel free to call the office at 
(763) 478-6644 Ext. 3 or email dom@saintannehamel.org

God Bless!