St. John the Baptist adult and youth religious education

The mission of St. John the Baptist religious education program is that all “would hear a loving and gentle invitation to meet Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, in a life changing way” through fostering spiritual growth, drawing families to responsible participation in the parish community, and empowerment to become formed disciples.

In order to support this mission, we promise to:

*Catechize young people and adults toward maturity in the Catholic faith through a curriculum that emphasizes understanding, reflection, and transformation and equips parents as the primary educators with the knowledge to continue that teaching at home.

*Communicate through our webpage, e-mail, newsletter, phone call, and mailing as needed.  We ask that you communicate your concerns and questions with the religious education staff and respond to such correspondences in a timely fashion.

*Evangelize through word and witness the Good News of the Gospel to young people and adults by inviting them into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and encourage ongoing witness of the faith community.

*Guide (Justice & Service in the community life) young people and adults in the development of a social consciousness and a commitment to a life of justice and service grounded in their faith in Jesus Christ, in the scriptures, and in Catholic social teaching; create meaningful relationships between youth and adults characterized by Gospel values; help young people feel like a valued part of the church community and provide opportunities for social interaction and meaningful participation in the life of the church and civic community.

*Involve (Liturgy & Sacraments) adults, young people and their families in the sacramental life of the Church by assisting them with a variety of communal prayer and worship opportunities for spiritual development and a personal prayer life to celebrate their relationship with Jesus in a caring Catholic community.

*Empower (Leadership) leadership by recruiting, training, and supporting youth, adult leaders, and catechists; develop a leadership team (Religious Education Council) of youth, adults, and pastoral staff to organize and support parish ministry and partner with families in promoting positive youth development and faith growth.

*Care  (Pastoral Care & Guidance) for parishioners in need through support, counseling, and referral to appropriate community agencies; provide guidance as youth and adults face life decisions and make moral choices and promote positive youth and family development through a variety of strategies.