Many of us still think about Christian Formation in terms of religious instruction. Some still call it "CCD", though most don't know what those letters stand for. We have a framework of a school. Another way of looking at Christian Formation is in the context of the whole community.

What we do on Sunday mornings or whenever we gather is far more inclusive than meeting in school classrooms, following an academic year calendar, using textbooks and having "teachers", Our framework is being lifelong disciples and learners rather than "graduating" after a sacrament or even eighth grade. "The program", while it is one component, is not the most important part of our formation.

Here are some of characteristics of whole community catechesis:

• Sunday Mass is the most important gathering of the Christian community.
• The total parish is involved in learning and sharing about the faith. Every age in the parish is involved, not just children and youth.
• Christian home-making is very important. It is where faith happens on a continuing basis. Families are the domestic church.
• Christian Formation is not an optional parish program with a beginning and an end. Continual faith formation is part of being Christian.
• Christian Formation happens in many ways:
  • During the homily at Mass
  • At Liturgy of the Word with Children
  • In preparing for sacraments
  • During more structured sessions
  • In everyday household life
  • By reading articles and inserts like The Faith Connection
  • In web sites for children, youth, and adults
  • While doing service for others, whether as an individual or group, a parish setting or in the family
  • In discussions with others

Whole community catechesis/Christian Formation cannot be evaluated or measured by the usual standards. It is an ongoing process that consists of conversion rather than achievement. Its aim is stated in the General Directory for Catechesis #80:
"…the definitive aim of catechesis is to put people …in communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ."

We try to provide small communities of faith where your child(ren) can grow in knowledge of their faith, understanding liturgy, moral formation, prayer, community life, and professing their faith in word and deed in reaching out to others. We work in partnership with you as you continue on the faith journey with your child(ren).

Brigid O'Donnell is the Director of Christian Formation at St. Matthias Parish, Milwaukee. Contact her at bodonnell@stmatthias-milw.org.