CHARLOTTE — Resuming faith formation classes this fall, like everything else, will be a bit different.
Some parishes will continue with online or app-based programs that were used for instruction when the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered most in-person instruction last spring. Others are returning to in-person classes with guidance and safety protocols provided by the diocese’s Faith Formation Office.
And some parishes are providing both in-person and virtual instruction, giving families the option to choose which program works best for their needs.
“I am so very impressed by how our parishes have risen to the challenges brought by this COVID-19 reality as they plan and prepare to resume safely in the coming months,” said Paul Kotlowski, diocesan director of youth ministry. “Their planning has included various contingencies and creative modalities to ensure going forward regardless of what curves the virus throws at our communities.
“Outdoor classrooms, virtual gatherings and other means of maintaining outreach and connection are being employed across the diocese. I’m particularly impressed with the sensitivity to the concerns and fears of the families being served in these challenging times.”
Over the summer, a Faith Formation Task Force compiled guidelines and protocols for assisting parishes in planning their religious education programs for this academic year. Their recommendations focused on three areas: safety protocols and guidelines for in-person faith formation classes, technology resources for remote/virtual learning and communication, and faith formation resources to assist parishes.
Each parish can consider and apply the task force’s guidance depending on their specific needs.
“We find ourselves in unique and unprecedented times, and we understand that the circumstances and the needs of the local community can vary from parish to parish,” Chris Beal, diocesan director of faith formation, noted in an email sharing the guidelines with pastors and parish catechetical program leaders. “Let us remember, ‘the primary and essential object of catechesis is, the mystery of Christ… to put people not only in touch but in communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ.’
“As we plan to adapt our methodology to our current and ever-changing circumstances, let us remember that the core of our mission has not changed.
As we consider what our programs look like and the ‘how’ in which they will be accomplished, remember our goal remains the same.”
— Kimberly Bender, Online reporter
Faith Formation resources
At www.charlottediocese.org/ev/covid-19-faith-formation-resources: Read the diocesan Faith Formation Task Force’s safety procedures, and see a wide-ranging list of apps, websites and other resources to aid in faith formation at home.
Your DSA contributions at work
The Lay Ministry Formation Program is funded in part by contributions to the annual Diocesan Support Appeal. Learn more about the DSA and how you can contribute at www.charlottediocese.org/dsa.
CHARLOTTE — Classes will begin in October for the Diocese of Charlotte’s Lay Ministry Formation Program, an in-depth formation program for adults who want to better understand their faith and more deeply participate in the Church’s mission.
The Lay Ministry program runs for two years, with classes held in multiple locations across the diocese. It is designed for adults at all levels – anyone who may be interested in serving the Church or who simply wants to further their understanding of Church teaching, scripture, theology and spirituality.
When classes begin formators will be using a hybrid online/in-person instruction model for the 2020-’22 program. Classes will start online in October. In 2021, depending on the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, the program may be able to resume face-to-face classes. Participants take a total of 150 class hours during the two-year program of study, which follows the academic year. The program offers English and Spanish tracks.
Participants will:
- appreciate and understand more fully that they are called to and gifted for the lay apostolate by virtue of their baptism and confirmation,
- be affirmed and grow in competence and confidence in their present ministries to and with others: the Church, their families and the community,
- explore their personal gifts and how those gifts may be used in response to their baptismal call, and
- grow in their Catholic faith.
Classes are being planned for Charlotte, Greensboro, Lenoir and the Asheville area, based on the number of participants who register. In-person classes in the 2020-2022 English program will meet on designated Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with an hour for lunch. Sessions average about one every three weeks within the academic year.
In-person classes for Spanish program may be held in Charlotte and Hendersonville, depending on registrations. Classes will meet weekly on Thursday evenings (6:30-8:30 p.m.) in Charlotte and on Friday evenings (7-9 p.m.) in Hendersonville.
Participants must be registered at a parish, provide a recommendation letter from their pastor, commit to actively practicing their Catholic faith, and agree to begin praying at least one segment of the Liturgy of the Hours daily as a part of their regular prayer life.
For more information, contact Dr. Frank Villaronga, diocesan director of evangelization and adult education, at 704-370-3274 or go online to www.charlottediocese.org/ev/adult-education.
— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter
Your DSA contributions at work
The Lay Ministry Formation Program is funded in part by contributions to the annual Diocesan Support Appeal. Learn more about the DSA and how you can contribute at www.charlottediocese.org/dsa.