We are excited to announce a new initiative for our parish: the Family Catechesis Program. This program is designed to help families grow in faith and love together, by providing them with opportunities to learn, pray, and serve as a domestic church.
What is Family Catechesis?
Family catechesis is a form of religious education that involves the whole family, not just the children. It recognizes that parents are the primary educators of their children in the faith, and that the family is the first and most important place where children learn about God and the Church. Family catechesis also fosters a sense of community among families, by bringing them together to share their joys and struggles, to support and encourage each other, and to celebrate their faith.
How does it work?
The Family Catechesis Program will consist of two Wednesday night sessions a month, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Each session will begin with a meal and fellowship, where families can enjoy some quality time with each other and with other families. After the meal, catechists will teach the children in their respective grade levels, while one of the priests or a speaker will teach the adults on various topics related to the faith. Parents will also receive a parent’s guide, which will help them to teach their children at home using the materials provided by the parish. Confirmation students will be required to attend more sessions in the parish, as part of their preparation for the sacrament.
Where will it take place?
The Family Catechesis Program will alternate locations monthly between St. Aloysius and St. Norbert churches. The first month of sessions will be held at St. Aloysius. The schedule for the following months will be announced soon.
How can I register?
If you are interested in joining the Family Catechesis Program, please fill out the registration form that you can find in the bulletin or on our website. The registration fee is $50 per family ($100 if you have a child in the First Communion program, $150 if you have a child in the Confirmation program, or $200 if you have children in both), which covers the cost of the books and the materials. The deadline for registration is Monday, September 30th.
Why should I join?
The Family Catechesis Program is a great opportunity for you and your family to deepen your relationship with God and with each other. It will help you to learn more about your faith, to pray together as a family, and to live out your faith in your daily life. It will also help you to connect with other families who share your values and beliefs, and to become more active members of our parish community.
We hope that you will join us in this exciting journey of faith and love. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at sharon.schoepp@divinemercy-parish.org or (608) 643-2449. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Please note: This is a parish-wide program. We invite all families to attend, not just the ones whose children are not attending St. Aloysius School. Even parishioners without children can help! You can volunteer to help prepare meals, childcare, etc. or attend the faith formation talks and enjoy the fellowship.
There will be an important parents meeting on Wednesday, September 27th at 6:00 pm at St. Aloysius. Michelle Nilsson from the Diocese of Madison will introduce the program and explain how it is going to work. This meeting is mandatory for all families who want to participate in the program.