The Diocese of Saginaw is inviting parishes to participate in a new Family-Centered Catechesis initiative after receiving a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment to help strengthen the faith life of families across the diocese.
The Diocese is one of only 15 dioceses nationwide selected to participate in the initiative, which partners with Growing Up Catholic to equip parishes with a comprehensive approach to family faith formation. Participating parishes will receive curriculum materials, training, coaching and ongoing support at no cost for three years.
"This is one of the most significant opportunities we have to renew parish life by helping parents embrace their role as the primary educators of their children's faith," said Laura Scheibert, who serves in the Diocese of Saginaw’s Office of Parish Life and Evangelization. "By forming entire families, we can build lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ."
Bishop Robert Gruss said the initiative reflects the Church's mission to evangelize through the family.
"This gift is one of the most impactful ways we can respond to the Great Commission and serve the Church today," Bishop Gruss said. "When families grow together in faith, they become living witnesses of Christ's healing, love and mercy."
Mary Roth, director of religious education at Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish in Bay City, said the program offers practical support for parish leaders.
"The training, resources and ongoing accompaniment give parishes the confidence to engage families in a meaningful and lasting way," Roth said.
A kickoff event introducing the initiative and its benefits will be held Wednesday, Sept. 23. Fourteen parishes in the Diocese have already expressed interest. Pastors and directors of religious education are encouraged to attend to learn more about this three-year opportunity. Contact Laura Scheibert at 989-797-6608 or lscheibert@diosag.org.