Faith & Learning

Tony Allen
Director of Faith Formation
(616) 935-8737
Email Tony

We are entering a period of new vitality for the Church, a period in which adult Catholic laity will play a pivotal leadership role in fulfilling the Christian mission of evangelizing and transforming society. For adults to fulfill their roles in this new era of the Church, their faith formation must be lifelong, just as they must continue to keep up in the changing world.
“Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us” statement of the U.S. Catholic Bishops

St. Patrick-St. Anthony Parish Elementary Faith Formation bases its religious formation on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. The CGS is an approach to religious formation of children that is rooted in an understanding and appreciation of the child’s relationship with God through their engagement with Scripture and Liturgy. This experience is one where we contemplate our Good Shepherd’s great love for us and in response, we strive to know, love and serve Him. Outside of the environment of the atrium where other resources and curriculum are used, we infuse the experience and presentations of the CGS by a certified leader on a regular basis. Each time we gather, our mission is to encounter Christ, grow in faith, and witness as joyful missionary disciples.

Makenzie Conner
Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Minstry
 (616) 935-8739
Email Makenzie

All 9th-12th grade students are invited to the Youth Center on Sundays at 7:00 PM. Please join us as we walk with Jesus and our parish mentors in learning about our faith while sharing spirit-filled discipleship moments with our friends.

Youth Ministry Amazon Wishlist
High School Calendar
Makenzie Conner
Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Minstry
 (616) 935-8739
Email Makenzie

Middle school faith formation offers opportunities to foster personal relationships with Jesus Christ in ways that best relate to 7th & 8th grade youth. This ministry is relational in nature, as teens are beginning to understand, question, and take ownership of their faith. There are a variety of activities available for participation, including: faith formation, retreats, social events, & First Priority at their school. 

If you have any questions, please reach out to Makenzie.

Youth Ministry Amazon Wishlist
Youth Calendar

The Parish Book & CD Rack in the Gathering Space has been a popular and useful source for good Catholic literature and teaching.  Periodically we are going to recommend some noteworthy works for you.

We also have a free public library on the bookcase in the corner of Gathering Space leading into the Family Center; please help yourself to a selection there.. You may drop off books for review to Tony twice a year.

Makenzie Conner
Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Minstry
 (616) 935-8739
Email Makenzie
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Young Adult Calendar

Calling all young adults post high school, ages 18-35! This new group is forming to meet to discuss faith topics, build community and foster relationships with local young adults.

Contact Makenzie to be added to our contact list to keep up to date with local events. We would love for you to join us and share your ideas for the group! On Instagram follow at catholic_ya_lakeshore.

Tony Allen, our Director of Faith Formation, shares reflections on faith in our journey to grow closer to God.