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Lay Formation
Guided by the Vision of the Catholic Pastoral Center, the Lay Formation Program
of the Diocese of Saskatoon offers faith formation and spiritual development
for adults within the church.
The program values an open and honest expression of faith in the search for Truth
and meaning and is guided by commitments of justice, compassion and peace.
About Lay Formation?
Began in the fall of 1987 as a response to Vatican II's call for involvement
by the laity in the ministry and leadership of the church
Lay Formation develops self-confidence, deepens faith conviction and understanding
of baptismal commitment… with emphasis on formation rather than specific
ministry training.… The program’s primary aim is formation of adults
in the faith,…. Through learning and experience adults become enabled
and encouraged to announce to the world by action and word the message of Christ….
“By learning about the message of Christ and the understanding of our
baptism… we are empowered in faith and spirit to permeate and improve
the world … whether it be in our personal and family life, in our local
communities and workplaces, or on a more global scale.” (Program Participant
1998)
“The focus is not on training you to do ministry work in the parish.
There’s confusion about that… although as often the case, involvement
in parish ministries becomes a fruit of the program. However, the emphasis
is that it is a two-year time out for personal discernment and formation… a
time out to grow in understanding,… to discern areas of interest and
giftedness… a time to examine the possibilities and the Spirit’s
direction and call in your adult life. ” (Program Graduate 2000)
“The Program encourages us to understand and take our rightful place
and role as laity both in the world and in our church…. in essence, as
adults we are learning in this program to take responsibility for the life,
mission and ministry of the Church.” (Program Graduate 1999)
Over 500 Catholic adults have had this opportunity to experience adult formation
in the faith. Graduates have formed a strong alumni association.
Queen's House of Retreat, Saskatoon, is the site for Year I and Year II in
2003-2004. It is the second of a shared program with the Eparchy of Saskatoon.
On occasion the program is offered as a shared experience of formation with
the Eparchy of Saskatoon. (Ukrainian Rite) This unique experience is the only
one of its kind in the world. Eastern and Western perspectives are woven into
the program in addition to the offering of presentations that are specific
to the respective rites. Twelve graduated from the Eastern Rite program in
2001 and 13 will graduate in 2004.
Participants represent the diversity of the church coming from various walks
of life, places, and ages both from within the diocese and beyond
A dynamic Lay Formation Mission Team has evolved in our diocese as a result
of the program.
Why Lay Formation
Spiritual Growth
Prayer, spirituality and a Christian community experience are integral to
the program
Discover various forms of prayer that will help develop a stronger prayer life
Understanding
Through a variety of topics grow in understanding of the Catholic faith
Experience many gifted, dynamic and qualified presenters from the Saskatoon
Diocese and across Canada
Study areas include scripture, theology, morality, liturgy, social justice,
and spirituality.
Friendship
Enjoy meals, socials, and learning together.
Join the Lay Formation Alumni who gather regularly for spiritual renewal, to share friendship and commitment to faith.
Program Information
Length of Program
Two years
10 weekends per year from September to June
Commitment to Prayer
Learn about prayer temperament
Discover a variety of prayer forms
Commitment to a personal prayer life is required
Journey with a small prayer group
Topical Overview
Lay Formation Topical Summary for 2006-2007.pdf
Lay Formation Schedule
2007 – 2008
Registration Information
Download the Lay Formation Application Form here.
Contact:
Kathy Hitchings or Louise Gantefoer
Catholic Pastoral Center
Phone: (306) 242-1500
Email: layform@saskatoonrcdiocese.com
Alumni Newsletter
View Lay Formation Alumni Association Spring 2007 Newsletter here.
Morning & Evening Prayer Calendar
Calendar for Morning and Evening Prayer (June 2 - September 5, 2008)
Upcoming Events
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