Una Familia de Fe — Sophia Institute for Teachers

A Spanish parish-based program that catechizes the entire family. This program is designed to be used by parishes as an alternative to CCD or classroom religious education programs. Studies have shown that parental involvement in the faith-life of their child is the most important element in ensuring that a child develops into a practicing Christian. Family of Faith was created to meet the demand among parishes who recognize that families are disengaging form the Faith. Even many parents who send their children to parish religious education programs struggle to create an authentic Catholic family in the home. Provides both the parish catechist and the parent with an easy-to-use solution to catechizing the whole family and helping parents lead their children. The program follows a four-year cycle: one pillar of the Catechism is covered each year from September through May. Each year is self-contained so families may join at any time in the cycle. The program is flexible and can be tailored to meet the needs of a particular parish, but the recommended process is:

1. Parish catechist gathers parents once a month to catechize them through teaching and discussion. This meeting is meant to help parents assume their role as the primary educator of their children.

2. Two weeks later, the entire family gathers after a Sunday Mass for a short "community meeting" with activities ranging from picnics and feast day celebrations to prayer groups and adoration.

3. Over the course of the month, parents teach two lessons to their children at home using the A Family of Faith parent guide and student activity books.

NOTE: Activity books are bilingual with English and Spanish on facing pages. Parent Guides and Leader Guides are in Spanish.