September 14, 2025

 

Dear Faith Formation Families,

As this new year of Faith Formation begins, I am thrilled to see all of you again and to welcome some new families to our program. The days and months ahead will be filled with opportunities for you and your child(ren) to grow closer to one another, to other members of our parishes, and most importantly, to Jesus Christ. The catechists and I have been working together to provide meaningful and innovative lessons to enrich Sunday classes and invite your child(ren) to learn about our faith through their active participation.

 

This year I am pleased to announce that each grade level will develop and carry-out an age-appropriate service project as a class. As Christians, we are called to lives of charity, and it is never too early to start forming this virtue. Former Xavier University president, Fr. Michael Graham, S.J., once said, “Service is what prayer looks like when it gets off its knees and walks around in the world.” Additionally, you will notice on the calendars that we will continue our Family Day events for our K-5 families, but this year we have added social nights for our middle school (grades 6-8) students. These fun-filled evenings will be an opportunity for these students to form and strengthen relationships with their peers in our parish, as well as those from our neighboring parishes. 

 

There are a few “house-keeping” items that need your attention.  First, if you have not done so already, please complete a registration form for your student(s) and return it with the annual book and supply fee ($45 for one child, $85 for a family (2 or more students)). Second, the Photo Authorization Release form must be signed and returned for each student enrolled. The Parent & Student Handbook needs to be reviewed by each family and the acknowledgment page must be signed and returned. 

 

Finally, communication is key to a positive relationship, and as such, I will make every effort to have open, frequent, and efficient communication with you. I will primarily use email, so please make sure you provide me with your preferred email address. You can also check the Faith Formation pages on the church website (www.sharoncatholic.org) for updated information, resources, and forms. In addition to these platforms I will utilize the Remind app to send important announcements and reminders. Please follow the instructions attached to join the Faith Formation Remind group (there are separate Remind groups for K-5, Edge, and Confirmation).

 

Peace in Christ,

Melissa Joseph

Director of Faith Formation