Faith Formation
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Faith Formation – Pre-K Kindergarten – Grade 8
Teaching our children about the Catholic faith at young ages enables them to develop a foundation of the Catholic faith that will serve through their lifetimes. Please consider sharing your time and talent with our K-8 children/youth this year! We are in need of lead teachers and assistant teachers during our Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday classes. For more information, click on the “Faith Formation” tab in the header above and then the “Faith Formation (K-8)” tab, or contact Kim Davis by phone at 813-671-4434 or by email at Kim@ststephencatholic.org
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
(OCIA) is a process for bringing into the Catholic Church both those who have never been baptized (Catechumens) and those who were baptized in a non-Catholic Church (Candidates for Full Communion in the Catholic Church). OCIA also includes adult baptized Catholics who have not completed the Sacraments of Initiation – Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. Those who are not baptized will celebrate their Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil. Those who are baptized are brought into Full Communion of the Catholic Church during the year. For more information, click on the “Faith Formation” tab in the header above and then the “OCIA” tab, or contact Rosie Bridges by phone at 813-671-4434 or by email at Rosie@ststephencatholic.org
Welcoming You Home
Welcome Home is intended to be a journey of sharing together in the rediscovery (or discovery) of the true roots of our faith: a loving and forgiving God. Many of us also left our Catholic faith, some because of alienation, some because of hurt, some from broad dissatisfaction. The reasons are as varied as we are. We returned, again for many reasons, but always with someone’s help. We offer you a loving hand and ear. Together, we will travel through the process of understanding our Catholic faith and finding the merciful, caring Father who is our God. Please allow us to welcome you back home! For more information, click on the “Faith Formation” tab in the header above and then the "Welcoming You" tab, or contact Rosie Bridges by phone at 813-671-4434 or by email at Rosie@ststephencatholic.orgAdult Lifelong Faith Formation
The Adult Lifelong Faith Formation Ministry offers many opportunities for adults to be involved in our parish suchas; Bible Study groups, Book Studies, Catholic Apologetics, etc.
For more information, click on the “Faith Formation” tab in the header above and then the “Adult Lifelong Faith Formation” tab, or contact Sue Haines by phone at 813-671-4434 or by email at Rene Bonetti at Rene@ststephencatholic.org.
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If you are feeling God's call to teach the faith, we need your help! As catechists you are called to embrace the following:
- A desire to grow in and share our Catholic Faith
- An awareness of God's grace
- A commitment to the Church's liturgical and sacramental life and moral teachings
- Strength of character that is built on patience, responsibility, confidence, and creativity
- A generosity of spirit, respect for diversity, and a habit of hospitality and inclusion
- A basic understanding and willingness to learn more about our Catholic teachings, Scriptures, and Traditions
- Willingness to employ provided & effective teaching techniques and strategies
COMMITMENT: Our Catechists and Assistant Catechists will attend an initial training/orientation and Safe Environment Training. They are committed to teaching 27 classes, utilizing the Office of Faith Formation to plan for any absences. Catechists will also commit to the ongoing formation, through Diocesan training, online resources, and opportunities through the parish.
Our catechists are simultaneously teachers and students, growing in faith and knowledge with our students. As a Faith Formation teacher, you will recognize ways to enrich yourself and your students, becoming a true catechetical leader.SUPPORT: The Office of Faith Formation supports your vocation of being a Catechist by providing in-depth teaching guides, workbooks for all students, additional resources, craft materials, and a library of videos and books so you can successfully spread the word of God with a small class. Contact the Office of Faith Formation (813-671-4434) for more information on how to become a Catechist and our current needs, or download the Volunteer Form.
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