Formation, formation, formation…
is the call that emerged from different voices at the last Diocesan Convention, and one of the main programmatic goals I have heard throughout my recent years of formation at the Stevenson School for Ministry.
At St. Francis, we are not deaf to these voices which—together with those of the parents of young children who have recently joined us at the second service in Spanish—remind us that the Church of Christ is missionary. “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation” (Mark 16:15).
As we started our 11:30 a.m. Eucharist, several people asked me: “Father, when does Sunday School start? My son needs to prepare for First Communion; my daughter needs to prepare for Confirmation.”
Many times, when it comes to formation, we tend to follow the DIY logic, which is great, as I firmly believe that the first Christian formation happens at home, through our example and commitment to prayer and good works. But there is also a communitarian element that we don’t want to miss.
As baptized Christians and believers, we recognize that we form the Body of Christ, and that the primary space to live out our faith and the Baptismal Covenant is the community—through active participation in the liturgical life and in good works.
The recent arrival of many children, and their parents’ heartfelt request for “caring for their souls,” compelled Rector Amy+ and myself to start a biweekly Sunday School. Every other Sunday, beginning Dec. 7th from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., we will meet to respond to this need for formation and spiritual growth. Although part of the program will be held in Spanish to allow full family participation, we invite anyone who wishes to help us in this endeavor to join us.
But most important, we ask you to keep us in your prayers, as we know that the transmission of faith is hard work—and a gift granted from above.
Formation, formation, formation… Let’s begin.
~Rev. Giuliano
