Education

Synod Theme
Education

POPE FRANCIS REMINDS US THAT “BY VIRTUE OF OUR BAPTISM, ALL OF US HAVE BECOME MISSIONARY DISCIPLES.”

DIRECTION I: Review the sacramental preparation standards required by all parishes in order to increase positive parent participation.

Outcome 1. The Diocese will conduct a review of sacramental instruction practice in each parish within two years to ensure uniformity and consistency throughout the diocese; so that people persevere in willingness to learn, teach and witness to our faith.

Outcome 2. Directors of Religious Education, in coordination with their pastors, will consistently implement the diocesan standards of sacramental instruction, as directed by the Diocesan Director of Faith Formation beginning within two years.

Outcome 3. The Diocese will provide for proper training and will communicate the standards for sacramental preparation within the parishes within two years.

Outcome 4. The Diocese, with input from the parishes, will devise standards to develop a consistent pre-baptism education program for parents within two years.

DIRECTION II: Provide continuous, structured, accessible education in the faith for all

Outcome 1. The Diocese will make available to all parishes, including parish home school groups, online courses on foundational Catholic topics within three years.

Outcome 2. The Diocese will assist each parish to establish family-focused Catholic education beyond sacramental preparation, including support for existing Catholic schools and possible expansion of Catholic schools within two years. will search out and identify successful training programs, people, standards, and curricula within the parishes and share them throughout the Diocese within two years.

Outcome 3. Each parish will, within three years, identify and fill gaps in lifelong education (for example those who are postconfirmation, newlyweds, and seniors) using resources provided by the Diocese.

Outcome 4. The Diocese and parishes will offer educational formation, including retreats, for all age and ethnic groups within three years. In addition, all educational formation will include, to the extent possible, material and presentations in the native languages of the target audience.  

DIRECTION III: Inspire individuals and families to continue lifelong faith formation so that they can deepen their relationship with God and to respond to the needs of our world today

Outcome 1. Each parish will provide, with the support of the diocese, extensive marriage preparation with life-long support and education to begin within two years.

Outcome 2. The Diocesan Pastoral Council will search out and identify successful training programs, people, standards, and curricula within the parishes and share them throughout the Diocese within two years.

Outcome 3. The Diocese shall establish a cross-generational service program (similar to Catholic Heart Work Camp for teens) to inspire faith and benefit the community within three years.

Outcome 4. The Diocese will establish within three years a continuing education and resource center (e.g. relationship coaches, social media,