Faith Formation Programs

Faith Formation Programs are an essential part of the ministry and service to the Archdiocese. Volunteers who wish to be part of these programs must consent to a Background Check as a condition of their ministry or service. This requirement is especially important for volunteers who may have regular contact with children or vulnerable individuals.

Adult Faith Formation

Join our ministry to grow in Catholic faith. As a volunteer in Adult Faith Formation, you will have the opportunity to be part of the faith formation team, assisting in planning and implementing programs for adults. Your tasks may include teaching or facilitating programs and working closely with the Director of Religious Education (DRE) and the Pastor. This is a valuable opportunity to deepen your own faith while helping others on their spiritual journey.

Assistance for Director of Religious Education

As a volunteer in the Assistance for Director of Religious Education program, you will work closely with the DRE to plan and execute special events for religious education students. Examples of these events include the All Saints Celebration and the Year End Celebration. Your help in organizing and coordinating these events will contribute to the spiritual growth and development of the students.

Catechist (Teacher) for Ages 3 to 12th Grade

If you have a passion for teaching and sharing your faith with children and youth, consider becoming a Catechist. As a Catechist, you will prepare lessons using the teacher manual for Sunday classes. You will also have the opportunity to attend meetings and workshops at St. Anna’s and work towards catechist certification by attending classes and workshops at other locations. This role is a rewarding way to make a difference in the lives of young people and help them grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith.

Catechist Aide (Assistant Teacher)

As a Catechist Aide, you will work alongside the lead catechist in the classroom every Sunday. Your role will be to assist the lead catechist and be prepared to take over if necessary. In addition to classroom responsibilities, you will also attend meetings and workshops to further develop your skills and work towards certification. This is a great opportunity to support the lead catechist and contribute to the spiritual formation of the students.

Children’s Advent Program

The Children’s Advent Program is a special event that requires coordination and planning. As a volunteer, you will be responsible for coordinating a children’s Advent play, including planning and attending practices. On a Sunday in Advent, you will present the program to the parish community. Assistance is needed in areas such as costumes, scenery, publicity, and food. This is a wonderful opportunity to bring the joy and anticipation of Advent to the children in our parish.

Christian Initiation Team (RCIA)

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) team provides education and support to non-Catholics who are interested in learning about our Catholic faith. As a member of the RCIA team, you may have the opportunity to teach an RCIA class, act as part of the support team, or mentor candidates. This role requires a deep understanding of the Catholic faith and a willingness to share it with others. By being part of the RCIA team, you can help individuals on their journey towards becoming Catholic.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC)

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC) program focuses on sacramental preparation and spiritual direction for children and youth who have not yet received the sacraments. As a volunteer, you will assist the DRE in providing guidance and instruction to these individuals. This role requires patience, compassion, and a strong commitment to helping young people grow in their faith.

Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP) Retreats

The Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP) retreats are annual weekend retreats that take place on campus. These retreats are separate for men and women and aim to provide a time for spiritual renewal and growth. As a volunteer, you will participate in these retreats and contribute to their success. Future retreats will use the updated “Welcome – There is More to Life” program. This is a valuable opportunity to deepen your own faith and connect with others in the parish community.

Confirmation Reception

The Confirmation Mass is a significant event in the lives of our young parishioners. As a volunteer, you will coordinate and assist with a reception following the Confirmation Mass. Your responsibilities will include decorations, cake, punch, organizing the parish to bring food, setting up the room, and managing the event. This is a chance to celebrate and support the newly confirmed individuals and their families.

Easter Vigil Reception

The Easter Vigil is a special event in the liturgical calendar, and as a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to help organize and host a reception in the parish hall following the Vigil. Your responsibilities will include publicizing the event, setting up the reception area, decorating, and organizing food and refreshments. This is a joyful celebration of the resurrection of Jesus and a chance to welcome our new Catholics into the community.

Families of Faith

Families of Faith is an engaging ministry for all families, especially those with young children. The group meets monthly for bible/book study at St. Anna’s, beginning with fellowship and a potluck meal. Occasional family-friendly activities, such as Christmas parties, Braves games, and trips to the zoo, are also organized. Children and babies are welcome to participate. For more information, please contact Shauna or Tim Cantrell at cantrellsh@gmail.com. This ministry is an opportunity to connect with other families in the parish and grow together in faith.

First Communion Reception

The First Holy Communion Mass is a significant milestone in the lives of our young parishioners. As a volunteer, you will coordinate and assist with a reception following the Mass. Your responsibilities will include decorations, cake, punch, organizing the parish to bring food, setting up the room, and managing the event. This is a chance to celebrate and support the children as they receive the sacrament of First Holy Communion.

High School Youth Advisory Board

The High School Youth Advisory Board plays a vital role in planning and executing events for high school youth. Under the direction of the DRE and Youth Ministers, you will have the opportunity to propose and organize events that encourage spiritual growth, foster a sense of belonging to the St. Anna’s community, and provide opportunities for fun and fellowship. This is a chance to make a positive impact on the lives of our high school youth.

Middle School Youth Group Team

The Middle School Youth Group Team works under the direction of the DRE to plan and execute events for middle school youth. With the approval of the Pastor, you will have the opportunity to organize events that promote spiritual growth, build community, and provide opportunities for fun and fellowship. This role allows you to make a difference in the lives of our middle school youth and help them navigate their faith journey.

Parish Library Service Team

St. Anna’s has a library open to all ages, offering books, videos, and more. As a member of the Parish Library Service Team, you will be responsible for cataloging book donations and maintaining the library. This includes organizing and shelving books, ensuring the library is tidy and welcoming, and assisting parishioners with finding materials. This role requires a love for books and a desire to promote reading and learning within the parish community.

Substitute Catechist

Occasionally, there may be a need for a substitute catechist when the regular catechist or assistant catechist is unavailable. As a substitute catechist, you will step in to teach the class using provided lesson plans. This role requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt to different teaching styles and materials. By serving as a substitute catechist, you can ensure that the religious education program continues smoothly even in the absence of the regular catechist.

Summer Days Vacation Bible School (VBS) Service Team

The Summer Days Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a week-long program that provides children with an opportunity to learn about the Bible through fun activities and lessons. As a member of the VBS Service Team, you will assist in planning and implementing the VBS program. You can choose an area to work on, such as crafts, games, or snacks, and attend the Summer Days sessions to support the children’s learning and enjoyment. This is a rewarding opportunity to share the love of God with children during their summer break.

In conclusion, the faith formation programs offered by St. Anna’s provide a variety of opportunities for volunteers to serve and make a difference in the lives of individuals and families in the parish community. By participating in these programs, volunteers can deepen their own faith, share their knowledge and passion for the Catholic faith, and contribute to the spiritual growth and development of others. If you are interested in getting involved, please consider one of the volunteer roles mentioned above. Your time and dedication will be greatly appreciated.