The Rite of Baptism emphasizes that parents are the first teachers of their children in the ways of the faith. The Second Vatican Council, in its dogmatic constitution on the Church entitled Lumen Gentium, calls the family the “domestic church” insisting that “parents, by word and example, are the first heralds of the faith with regard to their children” [cf. Lumen Gentium §11]. Given the emphasis placed on parents, we want to help parents to be what they are called to be in Christ: true heralds of the Gospel to their children.
That's why here at the Cathedral, our Family of Faith is an entire family catechetical process. Parents attend a monthly workshop where they learn through teaching, discussion and activities while their children are participating in age-appropriate and fun activities. Parents then teach their children at home with lessons and activities that involve the whole family. Each month, families come together for fun events to help them develop into a community of families who pray together, support each other, and live the life of discipleship together.
All adults of the parish are invited to attend the monthly teaching sessions, but a special invitation is extended to parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, guardians, young couples preparing for marriage - anyone who has or will have responsibility for passing on the faith to children. This faith formation opportunity is open to parents of babies and toddlers and children in grades K-8. If you send your child to public school, Catholic school or you home school, this is the place for you!
Please fill out the form below to register for the 2022-2023 Family of Faith Program. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Parish Office at 217-522-3342.
Below is our calendar of events for the 2022-2023 Family of Faith Program. Please join us at any or all of these events.