Commissions - Family Life

The Christian vision of family life speaks about the family as a community of life and love. It proclaims that family life is sacred and that family activities are holy. Families work to build a community based on love, compassion, respect, forgiveness, and service to others. In the family, people learn how to give and to receive love. Families share in the life and mission of the Church. The Family Life Commission provides programs, resources and generally is an advocate for all the families' needs. If you are interested in being a member of this commission, would like to help with any of the following ministries, or to find out when the next meeting is please call Patty Erusha at 624-2537.

Ministries

Baptism Preparation Classes

Baptism classes are offered for parents who would like their infant or young child to be baptized. These classes assist them in understanding the sacrament of baptism and support them in their responsibility to form their child's faith. Parents expecting a new baby are encouraged to take the se classes. Two classes are offered: one for parents seeking the baptism of their first child and the second for parents who have already had a child baptized. Classes are held in January, April and September on the first two Tuesdays of the month.
Members of the parish are invited to work with a team to teach the Baptismal class. They share their faith and experiences with parents and proved a welcoming environment that encourages families to share their gifts with the parish. Training for these class teachers is provided.

Baptismal Anniversary Cards

Each month Baptismal Anniversary cards are sent to children and their families on the anniversary of their baptism, to help parents remember the importance of this special day. Cards are sent for the first five years after their baptism. This project can be done out of the home. Names, addresses and all materials are provided.

Meals for Families with Newborns

As a sign of support and hospitality, 3-5 meals for families with newborn babies are provided. Families who have just had a baby and wish to receive meals are encouraged to call the St. Mary's' office with their name and phone number.
Parish members are needed to cook and deliver a meal to a parish family with a newborn. Volunteer one to six times a year. About 25 babies are born in our parish each year, so there is a great need for meal providers.

Marriage Preparation Program

This program is intended to help couples prepare for marriage by exploring different areas of married life. Couples who will be married at St. Mary's prepare for this sacrament by meeting with Father Wilkening several times and meeting with a married sponsor couple in the parish 4-5 times. Couples also have the option of attending an Engaged Encounter Weekend. Couples should plan to contact the church office to begin this process at least 6 months prior to the anticipated date of their wedding.
Married sponsor couples share marriage expectations and experiences with the couple preparing for marriage. Throughout the first year of their married life, cards are mailed out to newly married couples typing the importance of their marriage to different Holy Days. This project can be done out of the home. Names, addresses and all material are provided.

Ministry to our College Age Parishioners

To help our young adult members feel connected to our community, cards and booklets are mailed to them at the beginning of Advent and Lent. This project can be done out of the home. All materials are provided. Assistance is needed with collecting and organizing the names and addresses and in sending out the mailings.

Recognize a Family Life need?

This commission is currently working on identifying the family life needs of parishioners. Please share any ideas or concerns. There are many different "groups" within the parish that have their own unique faith and spiritual needs. (Young adults, newly married couples, parents with young children, parents with teens, empty nesters, senior adults, blended families, single parents, and others.) Please contact the Family Life Commission to be a part of planning programs or providing resources.