Program Overview
The Way Formation Program is designed to respond to Christ’s call to follow him. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (Gospel of John 14:16) Ongoing faith formation is important for every baptised Christian because at our baptism we are incorporated into the life, death and resurrection of Christ. We are asked to be carriers of the Light of Christ in the world which was given to us at our baptism. The responsibility of proclaiming God’s mission in the world today lies with each baptised person.
Mission is about the activity of God’s spirit at work in the world. To be part of God’s mission in the world is both a gift and a task and how we enter into this giftedness and challenge is dependent on how we take opportunities that assist our own personal faith formation. The Way will offer various formation ministries, liturgical ministries, and missionary ministries that will be of interest to a wide variety of individuals and groups. We invite you to accept the invitation to be part of the faith formation sessions offered in the parish.
Our Logo
The Way Formation Program logo utilises the colour red from our community logo representing apostles, saints and martyrs; we go out into the world in response to the great commission. The overlay of a single set of footprints represents Christ carrying us on our mission into the world.Our goal is to become missionary disciples, turning more outwardly to others both within the Ipswich Catholic Community, and to those in our surrounding suburbs.
Formation Ministries
The programs we are offering this year include the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) and the Catholicism Series by Bishop Robert Barron.
BECOMING CATHOLIC
The RCIA is best described as a journey of faith which passes through a number of different phases and focuses on conversion of heart and mind to Christ. It is a gradual journey tailored to the needs of the individual. Candidates meet regularly with a group of people from the parish to learn about Catholic belief and practice. Various rituals are held in the church at important points along the journey.
We hold regular enquiry sessions for those who want to know more about the Catholic Church or who may be interested in becoming a Catholic. After this period of enquiry, some people choose to embark on the RCIA journey. From the moment someone is received into the ‘catechumenate’ as it is called, he or she becomes part of the Catholic Christian community.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
THE CATHOLIC FAITH AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN IT BEFORE
For the first time, in breath taking and high-definition cinematography, the truth, goodness, and beauty of Catholicism are illustrated in a multimedia experience. Journey with Bishop Robert Barron to more than 50 locations throughout 16 countries. Be illuminated by the spiritual and artistic treasures of this global culture that claims more than one billion of the earth’s people. Learn what Catholics believe and why. Discover the full meaning of the faith.
Formation Program Contact Information
Faith formation is an integral part of the life of a Christian. We are formed in the life and teachings of Jesus so that we may become more attentive to the needs of the world; going beyond ourselves and living the Gospel in our homes and communities. This formation takes many shapes throughout the seasons of our lives, and we as a community are committed to creating a sort of “training ground” so that we may be constantly sent out into the world, equipped and intentional in our love for others. Below you will find some information about formation at the Ipswich Catholic Community. For the most up to date information please check out our latest newsletter.
| Contact Person |
|---|
| Bernadette McAndrew |
Catholicism: The New Evangelisation
Formation Ministries
Sacraments of Initiation
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
Catholicism
Catholicism: The Pivotal Players
Catholicism: The New Evangelisation
Catholicism: Topical Studies
Missionary Ministries
Hands of Love
Feet of Charity
Rosies
Food Pantry
Vinnies
Pastoral Care of the Sick
Liturgical Ministries
Altar Server
Lector
Hospitality Minister
Communion Minister
Children’s Liturgy Assistant
Leader
Computer Operator
Collector
Sacristan
Liturgical Coordinator
Musician
Presentation of the Gifts
Where possible, leaders from The Way Formation Program will present a small reflection at the end of Mass on the 4th Sunday of the month. In addition, at St. Mary’s Church, Leaders and members will be available to meet for 30 minutes after the 8:00am Sunday Mass for tea/coffee and a chat. Children can play in the school playground; members from The Hive will spend some time with the children as they play.
| 4th Sunday Dates for 2017 (Check the weekly newsletter for confirmation of these dates) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22/01/2017 | 26/02/2017 | 26/03/2017 | 23/04/2017 | 28/05/2017 | 25/06/2017 |
| 23/07/2017 | 27/08/2017 | 24/09/2017 | 22/10/2017 | 26/11/2017 | 24/12/2017 |