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
Coordinator of
Children’s Ministry
(616) 935-8746
Email Andrea
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.
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Coordinator of High School & Young Adults
Interim 7th/8th Grade
(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.
Middle school faith formation offers opportunities to foster personal relationships with Jesus Christ in ways that best relate to 5th-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, mission trips, social events, fundraisers, open youth center, & First Priority at their school.
Special Note: We are currently working to fill the role of Middle School Ministry Coordinator. During the interim, we have members of our staff who are passionate about youth ministry, able to take on many of the responsibilities included in this role. Please understand that some events, trips, etc. may not be available until the position is filled. If you have any questions, please reach out to Teesie (5th & 6th) or Makenzie (7th & 8th Confirmation prep).
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.
Coordinator of High School & Young Adults
Interim 7th/8th Grade
(616) 935-8739
Email Makenzie
Mission
A high school leadership team who are well formed disciples of Christ who “inspire every heart to know, love and serve Jesus Christ”, especially middle school students and peers.
Pier Minister Description
A Pier Minister is an active practicing Catholic high school student willing to serve as a disciple of Christ to middle school students and peers while upholding the teachings of the Catholic Church and good morals.
Scripture
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20
Patron Saints
St. Peter the Apostle & Blessed Carlos Acutis
Coordinator of High School & Young Adults
Interim 7th/8th Grade
(616) 935-8739
Email Makenzie
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.
Currently the group meets Thursdays at 7:00-8:30 PM in the Youth Center. No need to be a member of the parish–we are welcoming to all.
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!
Tony Allen, our Director of Faith Formation, shares reflections on faith in our journey to grow closer to God.