We have all adapted to changes during the renovation, and our CCD program is no exception. As St. Peter focuses on the words of John 2:17, “Zeal for your house will consume me,” the CCD program will incorporate an appreciation for religious art and architecture into its usual curriculum. This will involve a brief monthly newsletter for families and an art exhibit day. Appreciating the beauty of famous churches and their sacred art will help us look forward to the beauty that we will be able to celebrate soon in our own space.
As August gets underway, we look towards the new beginnings of fall, as vacations come to an end and the new school year begins. In turn, our CCD program here at St. Peter kicks off at the end of this month.
Our CCD program is made possible thanks to our volunteer catechists. New and experienced teachers give our children the invaluable gift of bringing the faith to life. Catechists are always needed and Parish Catechist Blake Vajgrt hopes no one feels intimidated by the idea of teaching faith formation.
“Some people have an extraordinary gift to teach, but teaching and sharing the faith is something we all should be doing as disciples,” Blake says. “If you’ve ever thought, ‘I’d like to do that but I just don’t know enough,’ consider maybe you’re limiting the Holy Spirit’s work in your life.”
Our CCD program is geared especially toward families who don’t have the opportunity for faith formation inside the school day, but an equally important aspect of the program is the community that develops through CCD. A faith community is vital for children and families. In addition to formally learning about the faith, it’s an opportunity to live and grow in faith together.
“We want to help people get connected and hope that families bring a willingness to get to know each other,” Blake says. “I would even challenge them to meet two or three other families in the program. You could introduce yourself to someone when you come to pick up your kids from CCD”
A special invitation is extended to all students entering sixth through eighth grade. Confirmation marks a huge milestone, but it is not the end of faith formation. The program for this age group looks more like youth group than a classroom.
“Any of those kids would say that it’s not boring, it’s worthwhile,” Blake says. “We have social and game time, and set time for prayer and learning. We weave formation into the experience.”
CCD is held on Wednesday nights. First through fifth grade meets from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. The middle school program meets from 6:45 to 8 p.m. Check the parish website for registration information.
To learn more or to serve as a catechist, contact Blake Vajgrt at
blake-vajgrt@cdolinc.net.