Glenn Valois
(925) 846-3531
gvalois@catholicsofpleasanton.org

Either family program is an alternative to the weekly grade-level faith formation program. Rather than having children attending classes in separate places, at perhaps separate times, families meet regularly with other families and are given tools to help them in the active practice of their faith. The primary goal in either family program is to learn how to make God part of a family’s everyday life and to develop a relationship with Jesus. We reinforce our beliefs through the example of other families; share our stories with our children and other’s children; teach ourselves and our family’s current Catholic beliefs and positions; explore how our faith is relevant in today’s world; teach our children church traditions; and have fun. All families also perform service together. All families are welcome, including families of non-traditional make up.

Family Programs
What do we do?

Families meet once a month on a Friday evening to explore Bible stories together. These gatherings are intergenerational (adults & children meet together) and include family prayer & ritual, family projects, and family faith discussions. Families use skits, games, and discussions to explore themes from the Bible. The three-year curriculum starts with the Old Testament, but families may enter any year. At home, families read and discuss Bible stories of the month and share activities based on them. All families perform at least one service project each year.

Who is this for?

Families new to the family program & families looking to explore the Bible together.

Intergenerational Faith Communities
What do we do?

Families gather twice a month in each other’s homes to learn more about the Catholic faith, to apply faith to every day experiences, and to have fun together. The gatherings feature community building, family prayer/ritual, activities & fun! The relevance of scripture and service in our daily lives is also explored. This is an intergenerational approach (adults & children together) where 4-6 families gather to form small Christian communities. Materials are provided for each family to use at home to explore the topics and prepare for upcoming gatherings. In addition, families share the role of facilitating and hosting gatherings. Family members of all ages are involved in the process. Family groups will be doing service projects together.

Who is this for?

Families who have an understanding of family faith discussion, family prayer and ritual, and service, and who are looking to form stronger relationships with other families who share the Catholic faith tradition.

In each family program, youth participate as other family members. In addition, youth are encouraged to participate in large group events sponsored by the Middle School Ministry Program or the High School Ministry Program. First Reconciliation & First Eucharist sacraments are available to Family Program participants. Preparation for the sacraments is done in the family. The materials are provided. For those interested, family groups may be available. Families involved in the Family Program also have the opportunity to be involved in a number of special events.