FAITH FORMATION

WHAT IS FAITH FORMATION?

Through ongoing faith formation—formation for discipleship and mission—children and adults continue their lifelong journey of growth in the Catholic Christian faith that began at Baptism. It’s an opportunity to explore life’s big questions, deepen your understanding of faith, and live with purpose. If you’ve encountered God and long to know Him more, faith formation is for you!

What Happens in Faith Formation?

Faith formation takes many forms, depending on your age and growth in discipleship. It may include:

  • Religious Education classes for children in grades 1-9

  • Bible studies to explore Scripture and how God’s Word speaks to your life today

  • Small faith study groups along the discipleship pathway

  • Small groups for conversation, support, and spiritual friendship

  • Workshops, retreats, and events focused on prayer, relationships, or living your faith

  • Sacramental preparation for steps like Baptism, Confirmation, or Marriage

Each experience is designed to help you grow in faith knowledge, strengthen your relationship with God, deepen your prayer life, build community, and empower you to collaborate in the Church's mission, especially through compassionate service of the poor via the works of mercy.

Statue of the Virgin Mary wearing a crown inside a church with stained glass windows in the background.

Why Faith Formation Matters

Faith formation isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about transformation. In a world where isolation is common, faith formation offers belonging and connection. By exploring faith in community, we discover we’re not alone. We support each other, share our stories, learn from diverse perspectives, and grow stronger together.

A woman leading a group of young children in a circle on the floor, engaging in a fun activity with animated expressions, colorful wall decorations with crosses, a sword, a fish, and a boat in the background.

FAITH FORMATION AT THE CATHEDRAL

Group of students praying with heads bowed in a classroom.

Religious Education Classes

English and Spanish (children in grades 1 through high school). Includes sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation.

Sundays during the school year, 11:00 am-12:00 pm, Cathedral Rectory.

For more information, contact religiouseducation.cic@gmail.com

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Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Wednesday evenings during the school year.

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“The Church needs you, your enthusiasm, your creativity and the joy that is so characteristic of you. … Do you know what the best tool is for evangelizing the young? Another young person. This is the path to follow!” (Pope Francis, World Youth Day 2013).

The Cathedral community supports and encourages the ongoing growth and faith of youth and young adults through participation in the Saint John Regional Youth Group, "The Way" for high school aged youth and the growing community of Catholic young adults from all parishes in the Saint John Region.

Alpha

11-week program of initial proclamation offered several times a year on Wednesday evenings, Cathedral Rectory.

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Beta

Follow-up to Alpha, using Word on Fire’s Catholicism series, or a similar faith study. Wednesday evenings, Cathedral Rectory, January-April.

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