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is a gift from God left in our care
Each of us is at a different place in the journey of faith. Aware of this, the priests and pastoral staff of St. Joseph Parish encourage you to reach out for support and resources, to ask questions, and to choose the path which brings you closer to God. To be a disciple is to be a lifelong learner at the feet of Jesus. We invite you to seek out avenues that will lead you and others to a deeper understanding of our Catholic Christian faith.
- Adult Faith Updates
- High School Confirmation (see link at right)
- Children's Faith Formation
- Preparation for Sacraments
Opportunities such as “Scripture from Scratch” (a periodic short series) aid in understanding and appreciating our sacred scripture.
Topics connect faith to real life as part of our year round ‘Growing Faith Project.’
In an informal gathering, parishioners join together for study or reflection and sharing (such as Lent discussion groups, a book club, or a support group for those who have lost a loved one.)
A ‘time apart’, offsite or at the parish, may provide focused time to strengthen one’s faith. Opportunities are listed in our bulletin.
A speaker or team over a concentrated period of several days focuses the whole community on our need for spiritual renewal.
for grades K through 8
Parish children who are not enrolled in Catholic school are welcomed to classes held on Sundays immediately after 9:00 a.m. Mass.
Our goal is to support parents as they raise their children in the practice of the faith we share. To this end, we offer a variety of Christ-centered programs, in partnership with parents, and supported by the prayers and resources of the parish at large. The Sunday morning classes offer an integrated curriculum of learning, prayer and service led by dedicated catechists who count on parent reinforcement at home and in church.
We look forward to seeing all our families at church every Sunday, and we especially invite elementary and pre-school children to join our special Liturgy of the Word at 9 a.m. Mass.
Belonging to a faith community is a wonderful support and example for our young people. We therefore encourage families to be active in our spiritual and social events.
Registration opens in April and sessions begin in September, following a published calendar. The parish, through collections and fundraisers, generously subsidizes this program. Tuition is charged to cover part of our costs, mainly the books and supplies for children and catechists. Parents in turn are asked to support our parish enthusiastically with their time, talent and treasure, giving back to God and others in return for his many blessings. Installment payments or financial assistance are available in case of need. Parents may contact the Faith Formation Office for further details.
Children in our parish Religious Education Program learn about our Catholic faith and discuss pertinent issues using approved catechetical texts. But faith sharing involves so much more! Our children pray together, participate actively in large group prayer services, discover God in their daily lives, and respond to Christ’s call for compassion, mercy and social justice through special projects.
We are blessed to have our parish priests present to the children in a variety of ways, thus offering them the opportunity to get to know our clergy. The priests preside as the children lead our seasonal prayer services. In keeping with our commitment to liturgical experiences as a means of nurturing faith, these participatory prayer services are scheduled throughout the year during class time. Each intermediate grade plans (through drama and music) and leads a seasonal faith experience. Parents are encouraged to join us for these celebrations.As we proceed through the liturgical year, seasonal themes are discussed in class and related activities are suggested for families to do at home.
Meanwhile, in class, our students participate in a number of group Christian service efforts geared to an awareness of living lives of justice, compassion and peace. Each class has explored one of the core principles of Catholic social teaching, learning about examples of injustice in the world, and planning an action in response. Together, together we strive always to do what Jesus would do!
PREPARATION FOR SACRAMENTS
CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (R.C.I.A.)
This process supports those adults who wish to be baptized, or join the Catholic Church, or receive the sacraments of Confirmation or Eucharist. It is never too late to begin or complete one’s initiation into the church. Inquiries are welcome. Contact one of the priests or pastoral associates at the rectory.
INFANT BAPTISM
Experienced parents welcome and support new parents just beginning their role as first teachers in faith of their children. Special Sundays are set aside for the celebration of this sacrament. Baptism arrangements may be made through the Office of Faith Formation.
FIRST EUCHARIST
Baptized children who are enrolled in our school or in the parish religious education program are invited to prepare, with the help of their parents, for First Reconciliation and then for First Holy Communion.
CONFIRMATION OF YOUNG PEOPLE
This sacrament follows completion of 8th grade religious instruction. It is a year long journey of faith, with candidates actively engaged in the worship, community and service life of the parish. Check the link on this page to the Confirmation blog.
MARRIAGE
A couple considering getting married is invited to contact one of the priests, ideally at least one year before the desired date, to arrange for their preparation sessions and to reserve the church for the wedding.
RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS
To find out more about becoming a priest, brother or nun, please contact the Archdiocesan Vocations Office at 973-497-4365.
OTHER SACRAMENTAL MOMENTS
For information about Communion for the homebound, or the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, please call the rectory at 973-761-5933.
When a parishioner has died, please contact one of the priests for support, in addition to your call to the funeral home. |
