Faith Formation - General Information
Faith Formation at St. Gabriel Catholic Church
Faith Formation (formerly known as Religious Education) is the vibrant process by which we grow and deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church throughout our lives. It encompasses not only learning about the Catholic faith through catechesis but also experiencing and living that faith in prayer, worship, service, and community.
At St. Gabriel, we recognize that Faith Formation is much more than just religious education; it is a lifelong journey of conversion, guided by the Holy Spirit and rooted in the teachings of Christ and His Church. This formation includes:
- Knowledge of the Faith: Learning the core beliefs, Scripture, traditions, and teachings of the Catholic Church
- Sacramental Preparation: Supporting children, youth, and adults in receiving the sacraments such as Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, and Reconciliation with understanding and reverence
- Prayer and Worship: Growing in a personal and communal prayer life, participating actively in the Mass and other sacramental celebrations
- Moral and Spiritual Growth: Forming a Christian conscience, living according to Gospel values, and growing in holiness
- Living in Community and Mission: Encouraging active participation in parish life and fostering a missionary spirit to witness Christ in the wider world
We believe parents are the primary educators of faith within the family, and the parish strives to support and partner with families in this vital role through various programs tailored for children, youth, and adults. Whether you are beginning your journey of faith, seeking sacramental preparation, or continuing to grow deeper in your Catholic life, St. Gabriel’s Faith Formation ministry is here to accompany, guide, and nurture you in living as a faithful disciple of Christ.
Pre-K - 12 Faith Formation registration is now closed for the 2026 - 2027 school year. For more information contact the Parish Office at (770) 461-0492
The Catechism of the Catholic Church prepared following the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council opens with the following words by Pope John Paul II: “Guarding the deposit of faith is the mission which the Lord entrusted to His Church, and which she fulfills in every age.” He later goes on to state:
“This catechism is given to them (Church Pastors and Christian faithful), that it may be a sure and authentic reference text for teaching catholic doctrine and particularly for preparing local catechisms."
This is the mission carried out by the Office of Religious Education through classes and activities for God’s children of all ages. Our program exists to provide support to all on their journey of faith.
