Formation
Spiritual formation is seen as vital to the ministry of all those involved in our Community. It is a transformation process; as we increase in Christ, we decrease in ourselves.
“The important point to remember is that the quest to be in communion with God and others, and the thirst for ongoing spiritual formation within the confines of lifelong learning, should be both nurtured and continual. As St Augustine of Hippo said in his famous Confessions: “Our hearts are restless Lord, until they rest in you.”
Archdiocese of Brisbane – Programs and Spiritual Growth.
Faith formation is an important part in ‘being Catholic’. Many of us have felt that once we receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist), there is nothing left more to do apart from attend weekly Mass to receive the Eucharist, and occasionally frequent reconciliation. While the receiving of these sacraments does help us begin our journey as Christians, it is just the beginning. The sacraments allow us to enter into a life with Christ, give us grace along ‘the way, and help ensure we develop a faith built on truth. However, formation extends beyond the Sacraments and ensures that are overflowing in grace.
Formation is a lifelong process that helps us move past ourselves and allows us to live the Gospel of Jesus; in our homes, in our community, and in every interaction with others. Our community is committed to ensuring that this journey continues throughout our life as we grow in service of the Lord.
Sacraments
The Latin word sacramentum means “a sign of the sacred.” The seven sacraments are ceremonies that point to what is sacred, significant and important for Christians. They are special occasions for experiencing God’s saving presence. That’s what theologians mean when they say that sacraments are at the same time signs and instruments of God’s grace.
Sacraments are fundamental to what we live as Catholics, and we believe they are instituted by Christ himself for our benefit. By participating in the sacraments fully, we say “yes” to Christ and to the grace promised by the Holy Spirit. What may seem as simple ceremonies or rituals passed down actually contain grace that heals, nourishes, and supplies us with what we need to live our lives to the fullest as Christians. Simply put, we do not participate in the sacraments as an appeasement or service to God but instead for our total benefit.
Formation Programs
Our community is building a number of formation programs that will help build on our sacraments and reinforce the life of a Christian at any age. Our formation programs aredesigned to assist us in ministering to those that we meet. For a general overview of our formation areas please follow the links below. Our weekly newsletter also contains information and meeting dates for these formation programs.
The Atrium
The Atrium is designed to help children deepen their relationship with Christ and His Church. This program ensures the intellect and heart are guided by the Spirit as children learn about their faith. This program is a classroom based program which supports children aged 3 – 12.
The Path
The Path is designed to run in addition to, or together with The Atrium. It caters for children who cannot always attend weekly classroom activities. It establishes a framework for home catechesis, sacramental preparation, and requires children involvement with Children’s Liturgy of the Word. This program requires weekly Mass participation, and attendance at the parish centre as children approach the sacraments. This program supports children aged 3 – 12.
The Hive
The Hive is designed to meet the needs of high school students, teenagers, and young adults. Activities include social interactions, scripture study, community support, and youth conferences. As teenagers transition into adulthood, this program reinforces the sacramental life and builds a platform for living out the Gospel in the community. The Hive supports teenager development by connecting them with adults by way of mentorship. Adults, particularly those who have had children also offer a unique guidance which is essential in forming our youth. This program supports teenagers aged 13 – 17, and young adults 18 – 35.
The Way
The Way is designed to respond to Christ’s call to follow Him. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:16). This program considers the spiritual life in the secular world. One of the program components, ‘Staying after Mass’ is designed to help incorporate spiritual exercises into our daily life that go beyond Sunday. In the secular world, it is often hard to engage and evangelise today, The Way helps us as we learn more what it is to be a follower of Christ, and how to bring others to the Risen Lord. The program encourages community engagement and supports any adult aged 18 and above.