Adult Faith Formation Commission
The Adult Faith Formation Commission was formed in January of 2006. Adult faith formation is concerned with the ongoing faith life of adults. It asks the question: What do adults within the parish community need in order to grow in their faith? The goals of faith formation are: holiness of life (deepening of relationship with Christ in everyday life), active participation in the Christian community and service of God and neighbor.
In 1999, the U.S. Bishops published a Pastoral Plan for Adult Faith Formation called "Our Hearts Were Burning". In the Introduction, they stated: "We seek to form parishes that are vitally alive in faith. These communities will provide a parish climate and an array of activities and resources designed to help adults more fully understand and live their faith." They identified six dimensions of adult faith, each of which they described as "a fundamental aspect of Christian life and a foundational content area for adult faith formation." Those dimensions are: knowledge of the faith, liturgical life, moral formation, prayer, communal life and outreach/social action.
The members of the Commission are: Bruce Belason, Tom Bell, Kelly Dunn, Fr. George Evans, Jacob Kallupura, John Murray, Kathleen Logan Prince, Dee Schwartz and Janet Wohlers. We plan to collaborate with parish staff and other parish commissions and committees to promote a parish community vision of adult faith formation. The Commission resonates with the words of Jane Regan: "To be genuinely Church in the 21st century, a dedication to fostering mature, committed adult communities of faith is essential." We would welcome any ideas or suggestions that parishioners might have about ways in which we might achieve the vision. Please contact Kelly Dunn.
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Every Sunday during Lent, purple papers will be distributed follow Mass with simple questions for adults and children to think and talk about. The Adult Faith Formation Commission encourages parishioners to spend a few minutes each week using this opportunity to deepen their relationship with God.
March 16
The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ
Adult: What do you want to say to Jesus about His suffering and crucifixion?
Child: What would you have been able to do to help Jesus when He was suffering?
March 9
"Lord, if you had been here my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you." J. 11:21-22
Adult: Name an area in your life that needs an infusion of hope/new life. How can God help you?
Child: When you are troubled or upset, what can you say to Jesus?
March 2
"Try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord." Eph 5:10
Adult: After reflecting on these words, what specific actions can you take in your everyday life to draw closer to the Lord?
Child: What specific thing can you do during this week of Lent to please God?
February 24
Jesus Meets The Samaritan Woman At The Well. Jn 4
Adult: Imagine yourself sitting at the well with Jesus. What questions would He ask you in order to bring you closer to Him?
Child: What would you like to talk about with Jesus, if you met Him in your town?
February 17
"This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him." Mt 17:5
Adult: Spend a few minutes in silence in the presence of God. What does God want to say to you about how you too are His beloved?
Child: What is there about you that Jesus loves?
February 10
"At that time Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil." Mt 4:1:11
Adult: What are your gifts and strengths? In what ways are you tempted to use them other than in service to God and others?
Child: When you are tempted to do something wrong, what helps you do the right thing?
The St. Julia Interfaith Study
"Neighbors Understanding Neighbors"
Perhaps at no other time in history has it seemed more necessary to better understand not only our own religion, but also the religion of others. What do the followers of other religions believe? How do their beliefs affect our families, our towns, and our world? How do 'believers' view those who do not share the same understanding of God?
Fortunately at St. Julia Parish, we have the opportunity to explore these important questions in our Interfaith Study series. By using up-to-date DVD lectures, current readings related to contemporary interests, field trips, excellent speakers and meaningful discussions we gain genuine knowledge and deepen our understanding and appreciation of how people of other religions live and practice their faith.
With the wave of religious fervor sweeping the Islamic world, St. Julia's Interfaith Study began in September 2006 with the comparative study: "Islam and Christianity". A total of 52 people signed up for this first study. The overwhelming enthusiasm prompted a second interfaith study for Spring 2007. This study focused primarily on the Holy Land, and its three religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In the Fall of 2007 we studied Orthodox Christianity.
1) To genuinely understand people of other religions; 2) To pray for people of other faiths, as well as, for world peace; 3) To have dialogue with people of other religions; and 4) To form an interfaith collaborative 'Outreach Initiative' for those who suffer loss.
All adults are welcome. Please come, gain new insight, as well as, meet new faces or re-connect with those you know. For more information, you may contact Dee Schwartz at 781-431-6463, or by email.
INTERFAITH STUDY: INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHISM.
This eightweek study is for all Catholics interested in better understanding of contemplative prayer life. It begins March 10, 3-5:00PM in St. Julia Parish Center. A fee of $25 includes all materials, including guides for group Centering Prayer and Meditation. Contact Dee at 781-431-6463, or austynmarc@aol.com with any questions..
Bible Study at St. Julia Parish
Saint Julia Bible Study Group meets on Tuesdays from September through June from 9:30 - 11:00 AM in the Parish Center.
The Gospel of Mark is a fascinating study that is both historical and relevant to contemporary times. "Mark" is the shortest gospel, the first gospel written, and the gospel that recorded the most miracles. You will learn details about Jesus and His ministry that can strengthen and enlighten you. Registration is at the first Session. A $25 fee includes all materials, including a Study Guide, Commentary, and a Bible for those who do not have one. No previous experience needed! Tuesday, January 29 - April 15, 9:15 - 11:00AM, St. Julia Parish Hall. Questions, please call Dee at 781-431-6463 or Susan at 781-642-1308. Why not make this part of your Lenten journey?
Meetings include a video lecture, refreshments, and discussion. One member comments, "Bible Study has become my auto pilot for life." Another member emphasis, "Bible Study renews my mind, psyche, and my body." A third member states, "I live in His presence all week thanks to studying God's Word with a group of people who both challenge and encourage me." Another writes, "Bible Study keeps my perspective focused on what is meaningful in life." Finally, another member writes, "Bible Study is a bonus way in which I receive Jesus along with the Eucharist." This group is coordinated by Dee Schwartz.
Sharper than any two-edged sword, and
Piercing the soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and
Able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the human heart."
(Hebrews 4:12)
Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) supports candidates and catechumens as they journey toward their reception into the Catholic church. See RCIA for more information.
Women's Spirituality Circle meets at St. Julia Church in Weston and is coordinated by Nancy Corcoran, CSJ.
