Formed in Faith

Lenten Retreat Day -- March 3

2012-02-10T10:57:00.007-05:00

A Lenten retreat day -- called "Living in the Paschal Mystery" -- will be held on Saturday, March 3, from 9:00 AM till 3:00 PM. The retreat leader will be Mr. Sal Della Bella, the Director of Faith-Formation for the Archdiocese of Louisville. The event will be held at the Flaget Center.

Map: http://www.archlou.org/flagetcenter/

The Paschal Mystery retreat theme will lead participants toward "an opportunity to reflect on the ways in which we have experienced God in our lives through the process of letting go."

For more information or to register, contact Ms. Linda McLemore at the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE): 504.448.8581, x. 1324, and/or LMcLemore@ archlou.org

Newspaper Story re: Why Catholic? in the Archdiocese

2012-01-26T14:43:00.004-05:00

The Archdiocesan newspaper, The Record, recently ran a special article about the program Why Catholic? It included details about the start-up of the Lent 2012 season. It also included interesting 'voices from the field' quotes about the how Why Catholic? has been received in various church parishes, in both English and Spanish.

Use this internet address to access the recent Why Catholic? newspaper piece: http://www.archlou.org/2012/01/26/why-catholic-to-resume-next-month/

This Week @ Faith-Formation

2012-01-24T10:29:00.003-05:00

Catholic Beliefs and Practices: Creed & Doctrine
Presenter: Ms. Maureen Larison
*** Location 1: St. Joseph Parish in Bardstown
Dates: Thursdays -- January 26, February 2, 9, and 16
Time: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
*** Location 2: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Louisville
Dates: Mondays -- February 6, 13, 20, and 27
Time: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM

RCIA Team Day and Catechist-Formation --The Gospel of Mark
Presenter: Rev. Joseph Graffis
Date and Times: Saturday, January 28 -- 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Flaget Center http://www.archlou.org/flagetcenter/

Vatican Says Catholic Presence Online is Essential

2012-01-23T08:54:00.002-05:00

Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli, the president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, recently emphasized that the presence of Catholics on the internet is essential to the "new evangelization." In fact, he added, during 2009, roughly 440 million Catholics went online.

Archbishop Celli spoke in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the pastoral instruction on social communications, “Communio et progressio.”

Archbishop Celli noted that society has passed from the “era of information” to an “era of conversation,” in which the content is itself the object of dialogue.

Speaking about social media, the archbishop added, “Language, understanding of communities,
and visibility are the great challenges facing those who want to be present on the new digital
continent.” He said Catholics must meet the challenge of stepping into this “courtyard of the
gentiles,” where God is unknown to many.

### #### ###

2012-01-17T13:53:00.004-05:00

Warm greetings this Winter! The Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE) will offer these learning events during the 2nd half of January and beyond:

January 21
Justice Workshop: Solidarity with the Poor
Presenter: Team of Speakers
Location: Cathedral of the Assumption, Undercroft
Day & Times: Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Catholic Beliefs and Practices: Creed & Doctrine
Presenter: Ms. Maureen Larison
*** Location 1: St. Joseph Parish in Bardstown
Dates: Thursdays -- January 26, February 2, 9, and 16
Time: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
*** Location 2: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Louisville
Dates: Mondays -- February 6, 13, 20, and 27
Time: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM

January 28
RCIA Team Day and Catechist-Formation --The Gospel of Mark (& Part of John)
Presenter: Rev. Joseph Graffis
Location: Flaget Center http://www.archlou.org/flagetcenter/
Day & Times: Saturday, 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM

Catholic Men's Conference -- March 31, 2012

2012-01-05T10:03:00.005-05:00

Big News for Spring 2012! There will be a Catholic Men's Conference, in Louisville, on March 31 (2012). The theme will be "Learning and Living Our Faith: The Difference that Jesus Makes."

Presenters will include Most. Rev. Joseph Kurtz, the Archbishop of Louisville. The event will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

Want to know more or to pre-register? Check out a new online resource:

Conference Website: www.cmclouisville.net

Or contact: Ms. Linda McLemore at lmclemore@archlou.org or 502.448.8581, x. 1324.

Happy New Year from the Faith-Formation Staff

2012-01-03T16:06:00.004-05:00

Greetings and happy new year! Here's hoping 2012 promises to be a great year for your ministry and you.

The Faith-Formation division of OLFE will host some stellar programs soon! For more information or to pre-register, please contact Ms. Linda McLemore -- at 502.448.8581 , ext. 1324, or lmclemore@archlou.org:

January 12-13
Developing and Manging Catechetical Programs
Presenter: Dr. Maureen Gallagher
Location: Flaget Center -- Room A
Dates & Times: Thursday, 2:00 to 6:30 PM and Friday, 8:30 to 3:00 PM

January 21
Justice Workshop: Solidarity with the Poor
Presenter: Team of Speakers
Location: Cathedral of the Assumption, Undercroft
Day & Times: Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Catholic Beliefs and Practices: Creed & Doctrine
Presenter: Ms. Maureen Larison

*** Location 1: St. Joseph Parish in Bardstown
Dates: Thursdays -- January 26, February 2, 9, and 16
Time: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM

*** Location 2: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Louisville
Dates: Mondays -- February 6, 13, 20, and 27
Time: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM

January 28
RCIA Team Day and Catechist-Formation --
The Gospel of Saint Mark (& Part of John)
Presenter: Rev. Joseph Graffis
Location: Flaget Center
Day & Times: 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T16:04:00.003-05:00

May your families, church communities, and you have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving Day 2011 -- from all of us at the Faith-Formation division of OLFE.

THANKSGIVING DAY PRAYER

Lord, we thank you
for the goodness of our people
and for the spirit of justice
that fills this nation.
We thank you for the beauty and fullness of the
land and the challenge of the cities.
We thank you for our work and our rest,
for one another, and for our homes.
We thank you, Lord:
accept our thanksgiving on this day.
We pray and give thanks through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

— Catholic Household Blessings & Prayers

Mid-South Catholic Leadership Conference (2011)

2011-11-09T15:35:00.005-05:00

The 2011 Mid-South Catholic Leadership Conference -- at Lake Barkley, Kentucky from November 6-9 -- is now wrapping up.

The "Lake Barkley" event is an annual, collaborative endeavor of five (5) Catholic dioceses, including the Archdiocese of Louisville. The theme for 2011 was "Catholic Leadership -- Supporting Families."

The Archdiocese was well represented by a contingent of parish and school leaders at the conference. There were excellent major addresses, a variety of workshops, and prayer times on the official schedule. But, clearly, there was time for some fun and socializing too. Check out the picture above! It shows a group of partying PCLs, from our area, learning to line-dance, with Ms. Denise Puckett -- a staff member of the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE) -- taking the lead. Way to enjoy the moment, everybody!

2011-10-28T11:59:00.005-04:00

Don't miss our great two-day workshop during early December, featuring noted author and presenter, Ms. Leisa Anslinger.

Catechesis for a Worshipping Community

Dates: December 1-2, 2011
Presenter: Ms. Leisa Anslinger
Place: Flaget Center, Room A

http://www.archlou.org/flagetcenter

Description: Participants will examine, first, the challenges involved in proclaiming the Gospel message in U.S. culture today. The course will then look at the relationship between prayer, liturgy, and catechesis; the concept of sacramental catechesis; and the catechumenal model as a basis, or paradigm, for all of catechetical ministry. Finally, attention will be given to whole community catechesis and intergenerational (and family-oriented) religious education models.

Times: Thursday, 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM Friday, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Workshop Fee: $90.00

Credits: 10 Contact Hours on Advanced or Master Level

For more information, contact Butch Ekstrom, 502.448.8581 or bekstrom@archlou.org --

To register, contact Ms. Linda McLemore, 5 02.448.8581 or lmclemore@archlou.org

Workshop on the Advent Season

2011-10-07T11:39:00.003-04:00

A workshop on the subject of Advent, sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education, has been scheduled for Saturday, October 15 -- 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

The details:

Advent: What, When, and How?

Presenter: Maureen Grisanti Larison --

Saturday, October 15, from 9:30 to 12:30 --

Flaget Center: http://www.archlou.org/flagetcenter/

(1935 Lewiston Drive, Louisville KY) --

Explore the theology of Advent; the practical meaning of the Advent season; and a variety of Advent practices and catechetical resources to use with a variety of specific age-groups (K thru Adult).

Participation Fee: $10.00

Pre-register, contact Linda at OLFE -- 502.448.8581 or lmclemore@archlou.org

Bardstown, Nazareth, & Rural Areas -- ALMI Workshop on Oct. 22

2011-10-04T11:28:00.003-04:00

A workshop presentation that will go hand-in-hand with the Fall 2011 season of Why Catholic? -- and other church ministries -- is coming up soon.

Title: "The Mass: Exploring Our Catholic Identity"

Date: Saturday, October 22 (2011) -- 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM

Presenter: Rev. Thomas Richstattter, OFM

This workshop will be held in Crimmins Hall, in Nazareth KY -- a special offering for those serving the Church in the Bardstown, Nazareth, Mount Washington, and south regions of the Archiocese. It will be sponsored by the Archdiocese of Louisville Ministry Institute (ALMI). It has been designed for adults engaged in ministries related to Christian initiation, liturgy, faith-formation, sacramental preparation, music, and the Why Catholic? program (both small group leaders and group members).

(This workshop will be a reprise of the offering in Louisville on June 11, 2011.)

The fee will be $25 (will include lunch). Register with ALMI soon -- Phone: 502.448.8581 or E-Mail: lmclemore@archlou.org

Back by Popular Demand -- Season 2 of Why Catholic?

2011-09-29T10:47:00.004-04:00

Important news about the Why Catholic? program in the Archdiocese of Louisville . . .

Welcome back to those returning, and welcome to all who will be joining (for the first time) -- the dates for beginning Season 2 of the Why Catholic? program in the Archdiocese are upon us.

Small-group, faith-sharing sessions, on the topic of the new Roman Missal, should begin during the week of October 2-8.

Essential information about 'what to use' and 'how to order' Season 2 is on our blog: http://whycatholic-louisville.blogspot.com/

Do you have questions or needs that require a personal touch? Contact:

Mr. Sal Della Bella
Director of Faith-Fomration
E-Mail: SDB@archlou.org
Phone: 502.448.8581

Pope Calls All to New Evangelization

2011-09-21T15:31:00.008-04:00

During a September 18 address, Pope Benedict urged all Catholics

to share faith through dedication to the New Evangelization.

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-calls-on-all-to-participate-in-new-evangelization/

Key Dates for Catechists and Why Catholic? Participants

2011-09-12T09:54:00.003-04:00

The Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE) invites you to get involved! So much to begin. So many to serve and to honor. So much to celebrate. Some key dates to remember coming up in the Archdiocese:

September 16 -- Archdiocesan-Wide Faith Formation Celebration!

(St. Lawrence Church, 1925 Lewiston Drive, Louisville KY, 6:30 PM; Reception after Mass)

September 17 -- Workshop by Leisa Ainslinger, M.A.

"The Village @ Work: Faith-Formation for the Whole Community" (St. Agnes Pastoral Center, 1920 Newburg Road, Louisville KY --9:30 AM to 3:00 PM)

September 18 -- Catechetical Sunday, 2011

October 2-8 -- The second season of Why Catholic? begins this week

Resource for RCIA and Adult Faith-Formation

2011-09-06T09:16:00.002-04:00

Musings: Becoming Who You Receive

This book is crafted for adult faith formation and RCIA, for catechists, and parents. Besides offering a reflection on the Sunday gospel, it offers a question with lines for the reader to share some musings. It also includes six pages on key changes in the language of the people’s response in the new Revised Roman Missal, Third Edition. Rather than simply focus on the change of language, this resource contains a story that leads to a deep understanding of changes of words in the text of the Mass.

Musings is published by the NCCL (www.nccl.org). Sample Pages are available online: http://tiny.cc/lcbsa

Catechetical Sunday -- Coming on September 18

2011-08-26T15:51:00.002-04:00

About Catechetical Sunday -- 2011

The ministry of the Word is a fundamental element of evangelization through all its stages, because it involves the proclamation of Jesus Christ, the eternal Word of God.

“The word of God nourishes both evangelizers and those who are being evangelized so that each one may continue to grow in his or her Christian life” (National Directory for Catechesis, # 17).

Theme: "Do This in Memory of Me"

The Catholic Church will celebrate Catechetical Sunday on September 18, 2011, and will focus on the theme “Do This in Memory of Me.” Those whom the community has designated to serve as catechists will be called forth to be commissioned for their ministry. Catechetical Sunday is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the role that each person plays, by virtue of Baptism, in handing on the faith and being a witness to the Gospel. Catechetical Sunday is an opportunity for all to rededicate themselves to this mission as a community of faith.

Homepage for the U.S. Bishops' materials for Catechetical Sunday, 2011 --
http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/how-we-teach/catechetical-ministry/catechetical-sunday/

Free Webinars -- Getting Started as a New Catechist

2011-08-22T10:20:00.007-04:00

Roughly 150,000 catechists are new to the job each year! Loyola Press is
hosting a free webinar series, featuring Joe Paprocki, D.Min., called
“Getting Started as Catechist."

During each webinar, Joe will address the basic skills of being a catechist;
how to plan effective lessons; ways to lead compelling prayer; tips on how to organize a variety of activities; and how to maintain order and discipline in the learning environment, in addition to other topics.

“Becoming a catechist is exciting and, let’s face it, somewhat intimidating!” Paprocki says.
“New and experienced catechists are eager to learn ways to effectively engage young people in
faith formation and basic teaching skills to help them gain confidence in this vocation.”

Webinar sessions, dates, and topics will include (from 7-8 pm CDT each program):

• August 24 (intermediate age children: grades 4–6)
• August 30 (junior high and high school)
• September 6 (adult faith formation)

Learn about the ministry of catechesis more from the comfort of your computer!

Register: Catechist's Journey (http://tiny.cc/ipryd)

(Note: If you have never seen Joe Paprocki in action, here is a short video clip:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NA_ksPLrKYI&feature=relmfu)

Note: Each of the Loyola webinars by Joe Paprocki will be worth one hour of catechist credit in the area of Catechetics/Methods. For more information, contact: Ms. Denise Puckett, 502.448.8581 and/or dpuckett@archlou.org

Video Workshop -- The Mass and Its Meaning

2011-08-19T11:46:00.004-04:00

Recently, the Archdiocesan faith-formation staff hosted a well-received workshop on "The Mass: The Meaning of Our Catholic Identity." It featured Rev. Thomas Richstatter, OFM, as the main speaker. A video was made of his presentation. And here it is, a great tool for individual or group in-service.

(This resource should be especially good for those involved with Why Catholic? during Fall 2011, since
the central theme will be Liturgy and the New Roman Missal.)

Find the video here: http://74.143.35.98/The%20Mass.wmv

Workshop: "The Village @ Work: Faith-Formation in the Whole Community"

2011-08-16T09:24:00.006-04:00

The Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation and Education (OLFE)
will host a workshop on Saturday, September 17.

"The Village @ Work:
Faith-Formation in the Whole Community"

The event will be held at the Saint Agnes Parish, 1800 Newberg Road, in Louisville (see link to directions below) from 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Presenter: Leisa Ainslinger, M.A.

All persons engaged in faith-formation ministry, on all levels in their local communities, are invited and urged to attend this special presentation.

Workshop Description: A proverb from Africa states that ‘it takes a village to raise a whole person.’ Never has this seemed more true! This workshop, by noted author and adult education specialist, Ms. Leisa Anslinger, will explore The Village at Work in the dynamic process of
faith-formation in and for the whole local Church. During part one, Ms. Anslinger will focus – in conjunction with the theme of Catechetical Sunday 2011 -- on the critical and lifelong task of
sacramental formation for all ages. Throughout part two of the workshop, she will center on practical dimensions of what parents, extended family members, and others (in the wider community) can do to nurture a lasting Catholic identity.

About Our Presenter: Leisa Anslinger is recognized widely as an expert on lifelong catechesis, faith-development, and Catholic stewardship. She holds a B.A. in Music Education, from St. Mary-of-the-Woods College; a Masters in Secondary-School Counseling, from Purdue University; and a M.A. in Religion from the Athenaeum of Ohio. She is the author of Here Comes Everybody! Whole Community Catechesis in the Parish – a practical guide about lifelong faith-formation programs in parish life today.

Register yourself and team members:

Office of Lifelong Formation and Education (OLFE)
Attention: Ms. Linda McLemore
Phone: 502-448-8584, ext. 1324
E-mail: lmclemore@archlou.org

Cost: $35 per person (includes lunch)

Getting to the St. Agnes Pastoral Center:
http://www.archlou.org/article126312.htm?img=1&imgsize=large&imgalign=right&wraptext=1&body=1

New Video Helps -- Adult Catholic Catechism

2011-08-15T10:27:00.003-04:00

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has published a series of video segments about the Catholic Catechism for Adults. Look here to find them:

http://www.usccb.org/media/video

(Check under Faith Formation)

The introductory presentation runs about 8.5 minutes and introduces the other pieces. Five additional video programs include:

• Overview: The Faith Revealed (16:02)
• The Creed: The Faith Professed (16:58)
• The Sacraments: The Faith Celebrated (20:21)
• Christian Morality: The Faith Lived (17:08)
• Prayer: The Faith Prayed (18:44)

Free Webinars for New Catechists

2011-08-15T09:53:00.010-04:00

About 150,000 catechists are new to their ministry each year in the

Catholic Church of the United States. Loyola Press plans to

support their training by hosting a webinar series called “Getting

Started as a Catechist.”

The presenter will be Joe Paprocki, D.Min. He will identify the basis

skills in catechesis; how to plan effective lessons; ways to lead

compelling prayer; tips on how to organize a variety of activities; and

how to maintain order and discipline in the learning environment.

“Becoming a catechist is exciting and, let’s face it, somewhat intimidating!” Paprocki says.
“New and experienced catechists are eager to learn ways to effectively engage young people in
faith formation and basic teaching skills to help them gain confidence in this vocation.”

There will be four (4) webinars in the Loyola series, focused on separate age groups. Each will take place from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm CDT:

• August 17 (Primary age children: grades 1–3)
• August 24 (Intermediate age children: grades 4–6)
• August 30 (Junior high and high school)
• September 6 (Adult faith formation)

These webinars will be presented free of charge, on your personal computer! Catechists, learn more about your important vocation -- and become better prepared for Catechetical Sunday (September 18, 2011).

Register at Catechist's Journey, http://tiny.cc/ipryd --

Here is a video introduction from Dr. Joe Paprocki

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NA_ksPLrKYI&feature=relmfu

Note: Each of the four (4) Loyola webinars by Joe Paprocki will be worth one hour of catechist credit in the area of Catechetics. For more information, contact: Ms. Denise Puckett, 502.448.8581 and/or dpuckett@archlou.org

Resources for Catechetical Sunday 2011

2011-08-15T08:45:00.004-04:00

The theme for Catechetical Sunday 2011 (September 18) will be "Do This in Memory of Me."

Many parish catechetical leaders use this occasion to honor and acknowledge the ministry of catechists in the midst of their faith communities. Use this webapge to review some resources that might help you to do this.

www.nccl.org/news/communications?mode=PostView&bmi=661180

Also, check on the main webpage of the National Conference of Catechetical Leadership -- which contains Catechetical Sunday 2011 ideas and resources as well.

www.nccl.org

PCL Luncheon -- Thanks and Pictures (May 12, 2011)

2011-06-03T15:34:00.009-04:00

May 12 at the Flaget Center -- an Annual Lunch and Celebration to honor and
thank the Parish Catechetical Leaders in the Archdiocese of Louisville.

The festive photos tell the story. Thanks to all who attended, all who had to
miss the party due to other commitments, and to all who take part in all of the important PCL ministries in the parishes throughout the Archdiocese!

Click for More May 12th Pix

The Other 6

2011-05-19T09:48:00.004-04:00

Need to find God today -- somewhere, somehow? The Other 6 is an internet community dedicated 24/7 to helping people find the love of the Creator (and each other) in all places, and in all things.

http:www.other6.com

Roundtable 2011 -- NALM Presents Special Day in Indy

2011-05-10T14:04:00.003-04:00

A "roundtable" workshop day for parish administrators, pastoral associates, and parish business managers will take place on June 1, 2011 -- in Indianapolis, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The theme of the day will be Catholic Church Management: From a Challenging Present to a Creative Future.

The "roundtable" will be presented by the National Association for Lay Ministry (www.nalm.org). Click below for a flyer:

http://www.nalm.org/mc/page.do?sitePageId=45293&orgId=nalm

For related information about the 2011 Annual NALM Conference (June 1-4 in Indianapolis), see www.NALM.org (Events tab) or call 202.541.5300.

Webinar -- May 17: Changing Face of Catholic Parishes

2011-04-27T10:56:00.004-04:00

A look inside the data -- what is happening in U.S. Catholic parishes today?

May 17 -- 3:00 to 4:00 PM

Presenters: Neil Parent www.nalm.org
Mark M. Gray www.cara.georgetown.edu

Easy to sign up today. -- https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/796535480

Beyond Season 1: Wednesday Night Group to Meet Monthly Until Season 2

2011-04-25T13:30:00.004-04:00

"I have met some awesome people. I would not change a thing."

-- Why Catholic? Group Evaluation, Jeffersontown

What is your Why Catholic? small group looking to do between now and Season 2 (Fall
2011)? Let us know. And keep checking this blog page. We'll have some ideas to share
from places throughout the Archdiocese.

Revised Edition Available -- New American Bible

2011-04-19T16:59:00.004-04:00

The Catholic bishops of the U.S. have approved a revised edition of the New American Bible.

See >> www.usccb.org/nab/bible/nabre.shtml

The Archdiocesan blog called Why Catholic Now has more information too:

www.WhyCatholic-Louisville.blogspot.com

FYI -- The Boom's Back in 'Baby Boom'

2011-04-19T16:19:00.005-04:00

The Baby Boom generation reached an important turing point on January1, 2001. The oldest of "Boomers" turned 65. The BB is the oversized generation that includes all persons, born in the USA, from 1946 to 1964.

By the year 2030, almost 20% (1 in 5 Catholics) will have reached 'senior citizenship' (age 65) -- but the elder Boomers will be unlike any previous senior citizen cadre that anyone or any church has ever experienced! The Baby Boomers represent a new and predictable kind of graying process in our parishes -- and they will present implications for our parish ministry efforts, as more and more Boomers slide toward retirement age.

Here are some interesting insights for consideration by your parish staff and you:

www.faithformationlearningexchange.net

Going Digital -- Why Catholic? Season 1

2011-04-01T09:46:00.010-04:00

Big thanks to Ms. Marnie McAllister, Assistant Editor of The Record, for a great feature. Read it here! -- http://www.archlou.org/article286359c4407990.htm

-- Follow the Why Catholic? Blog of the Archdiocese too! -- www.whycatholiclouisville.blogspot.com -- Connect with us on Facebook too. Search: Louisville Why Catholic http://www.facebook.com/

Online Workshop: Digital Ministry and Social Networking

2011-03-29T09:30:00.006-04:00

A free, live webinar

April 26, 2011 -- 3:00 to 4:00 PM

Today, the Church serves an increasingly "wired" and "wireless" population of all ages. This webinar will feature Ms. Lisa Hendey -- author and founder of http://www.catholicmom.com/ -- presenting a creative overview of social media technologies including Facebook, Twitter, blogs, podcasts, and streaming video. Learn the basics of these helpful tools, what the Church recommends about using them, plus "best practices" that have been adopted by dioceses, parishes, and others around the country.

This webinar is free from Ave Maria Press (http://www.avemariapress.com/) -- in conjunction with the National Conference on Catechetical Leadership (www.nccl.org) and the National Association for Lay Ministry (www.nalm.org)

Pre-registration is easy. Go to https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/328468384

Young Adult Ministry -- ALI Workshop on March 31

2011-03-23T11:11:00.006-04:00

The Nuts and Bolts:

A Basic Guide to

Young Adult Ministry

March 31, 2011 -- 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM

The 2011 Archdiocesan Leadership Institute (ALI) will feature a presentation on the specifics of young adult ministry, and about how parish communities can become more young adult responsive.

The Presenter will be Paul Jarzembowski, the executive director of the National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association (NCYAMA). He also serves as the director of Young Adult Ministry in the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois.

Location: Flaget Center, 1935 Lewiston Drive, Louisville KY 40216 www.archlou.org/flagetcenter

Fee: $40.00 per Person (includes Lunch)

The Archdiocesan Leadership Institute (ALI) enhances and strengthens the knowledge, values, and skills needed for viable pastoral leadership in the Church of central Kentucky.

Care for the Earth -- April 16 Symposium

2011-03-14T10:12:00.004-04:00

5th Annual Meeting of Science and Spirituality

CARE FOR THE EARTH

Nazareth Retreat Center

Bardstown, Kentucky

April 16 -- 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Conference Fee: $50.00 per Person

On-Campus Housing and Meals: $65.00

nazarethretreatcenter.org

More Information and Reservations: 502.348.1513

Workshop on March 19 (Saturday)

2011-03-14T09:36:00.003-04:00

Coming on Saturday, March 19 (2011) -- "Proclaiming Our Story through Media and Technology"

Site: Flaget Center (1935 Lewiston Drive)

Time: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Featuring: Tim Welch, Author and Consultant. Join the Faith-Formation Office staff for a practical workshop that will model a number of technology tools of our day -- that will help us procalim the great Story of Jesus. It will include online strategies; free tools for creating multi-media for storytelling and religion teaching.

Fee per Person: $10.00

Pre-Register: Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation and Education --

Ms. Linda McLemore, at 502.448.8581 and/or lmclemore@archlou.org

A Lenten-Growth Practice

2011-03-14T09:22:00.004-04:00

The Examen at lunch time invites you with a pause, during midday (or at another time in the middle of things that works for you), to review your day, while mindful of the Presence of God.

Each week, a lunch-time moment will center on a particular theme. Begin here:

http://ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen/lunchtime-examen

Your online leader will be Mr. Jim Manney, the author of The Prayer that Changes Everything.

Two Minutes of Quiet -- Ash Wednesday and Lent

2011-03-09T10:21:00.003-05:00

Take a 2.5 minute flash break. Reflect on the

meaning of Ash Wedneasday and Lent 2011. This

presentation has an upbeat r 'n b music track

too!

Click --> http://www.bustedhalo.com/features/ash-wednesday-in-two-minutes

Happy Mardi Gras -- Why Catholic? for Lent

2011-03-08T10:10:00.006-05:00

Today is March 8, 2011. Mardi Gras -- or Fat Tuesday. The day of fiesta to celebrate before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. Mark the season of Lent in a special way this year. Join the new spiritual-renewal program, for adults, in our Archdiocese:

Why Catholic? -- A Journey Through the Catechism

For more information in English and Spanish, BLOG with us:

www.WhyCatholic-Lousiville.blogspot.com

And be sure to Facebook with us! -- Louisville Why Catholic

Register for Why Catholic? at local parish today. Your contact at the Archdiocese is:

Faith-Formation Dept.
Ph: 502.448.8581
E: SDB@archlou.org

Video Segments Now Available -- Theology Online

2011-02-25T14:39:00.007-05:00

Great news today! There is a big menu of theological presentations -- now available -- via DVD videos online from OLFE.

The presentations were drawn from Archdiocesan Ministry Institute courses during recent semesters. Please click here:

www.archlou.org/article281511.htm?body=1

For catechist-certification credit, from the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation and Education (OLFE), by using online materials, contact:

Ms. Denise Puckett
Consultant for Catechetical Ministry

Office of Lifelong Formation & Education

Phone: 502.448.8581

E-Mail: dpuckett@archlou.org

Sign-Up Now: Why Catholic?

2011-02-23T12:33:00.004-05:00

Mardi Gras and the season of Lent are almost here!

Soon we will begin the acclaimed program Why Catholic?: A Journey Through the Catechism, for adults, in church parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Louisville.

Sign-up for Why Catholic? in your local parish now. For information about the program:

www.archlou.org/whycatholic

Para informacion en Espanol (Porque ser Catolico?) -- www.renewintl.org

Or make contact with the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE) --

E-Mail: OLFE@archlou.org

Phone: 502.448.8581

Next Week: Valentine's Day & Training for Why Catholic?

2011-02-09T13:46:00.021-05:00

Next week promises to be a big week!

First, we will celebrate St. Valentine's Day

on Monday, the 14th.

Here is some catechist's background. The man's name, Valentine, in Latin refers to "strong, powerful, worthy." Pope Gelasius I switched an ancient pagan holiday -- in celebration of the Roman god Juno -- during 496 c.e., into Saint Valentine's Feast on February 14.

Christian legend says that a priest, named Valentine, was an outspoken and brave Christian community leader. He baptized many (even Saint Lucy the Martyr perhaps) and performed other ministerial duties faithfully and constantly.

Valentine attracted the attention -- and the deep anger -- of Claudius II, the emperor of Rome. The legend concludes that Valentine, ever-brave, was thrown int a Roman jail and eventually executed (by bow and arrow?) because he would not renounce his Christian faith.

The Roman version of the name Valentine was very common, for males, during that period in the Roman Empire. There is some evidence in Christian history that there may have been two or perhaps three Valentines, during early Christian history, who deserve the title Saint -- and all died, coincidentally, on the date February 14 (but during different years).

One very old, romantic part of the Valentine story tells about the saint-to-be locked in a jail cell before his execution by Claudius II. -- As the tale goes, Valentine falls in love with his jailer's daughter. Before his death, he wrote her a touching love letter "from your Valentine." And, thus was born, from this, the practice of using symbols like hearts, love, bows and arrows, cupids ("the God of Love" from Roman mythology), the color red for passion, and "Valentine's cards" among friends and lovers on February 14.

Second, training workshops for Why Catholic? small group leaders will begin.

Training in English and Spanish for Why Catholic? small group leaders begins on Tuesday, the 15th. Click for the complete schedule below. (Attend only one date & time):

http://www.archlou.org/whycatholic/article266407c3946368.htm

Please have each of those who plan to be Why Catholic? small group facilitators -- in your parish, school, or other community -- attend one of the training sessions on the schedule.

The actual meetings of small groups for Season 1 -- Why Catholic? should begin in your local community during the season of Lent, March 2011.

LIMEX -- Graduate-Level Ministry Studies in our Archdiocese

2011-02-09T11:40:00.008-05:00

Are you hearing more about LIMEX these days, but understanding it less?

LIMEX stands for 'Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program.' It is a graduate ministry studies program for adults -- implemented via learning group cohorts in 'extension sites' such as the Archdiocese of Louisville.

LIMEX has existed for over 25 years nation-wide, coming from the Institute for Ministry @ Loyola University New Orleans. Pictured above are: (1) Dr. Thomas F. Ryan, the Director of LIM; and (2) the Saint Ignatius Chapel and Library on the Loyola campus.

There are currently two LIMEX groups operating in the Archdiocese. Student recruitment for another new group is beginning now. Click below for some online information:

http://lim.loyno.edu/onsite

The coordinator of LIMEX in our Archdiocese is Butch Ekstrom.

Make contact with Butch at the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Faith & Education (OLFE) -- bekstrom@archlou.org -- 502.448.8581.

LIMEX leads adult students toward professional ministry degrees and certificates:

http://lim.loyno.edu/onsite/programs-study

Master of Pastoral Studies (MPS)

Master of Religious Education (MRE)

Certificate in Pastoral Studies (CPS)

Certificate in Religious Education (CRE)

Post-Masters Certificate in Pastoral Studies

Advanced Continuing Education Certificate

Complete online courses and degrees are also an option with LIM.

Lent 2011 -- Workshop on Saturday, February 12

2011-02-09T10:27:00.005-05:00

The Archdiocesan Faith-Formation Office will soon present a special workshop --

"Lent: What, When, How"

Date: Saturday, February 12.

Location: Flaget Center (Auditorium) www.archlou.org/flagetcenter

Times: 9:30 AM till 12:30 PM

The main presenter will be Rev. Joseph Graffis, the Pastor of Saint Edward Parish, Jeffersontown. His one-hour lecture, on the Theology and Practices of Lent, will be followed by several breakout (workshop) sessions on methods and resources for teaching about Lent to various age-groups, from pre-school thru adults.

Attendance Fee: $10 per Person.

Pre-Register: Linda McLemore, OLFE, 502.448.8581 (x. 1324) -- lmclemore@archlou.org

(This workshop is an offering of ALMI -- the Archdiocese of Louisville Ministry Institute.)

Media Resources -- Newsletter for January 2011

2011-01-12T08:42:00.004-05:00

Media Resources at OLFE

We urge you to make frequent use, during 2011, of our Media Resources Library at the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation anf Education (OLFE).

Here is a link to our temporary Media Library webpage --it includes a January 2011 resource update from our Media coordinator:

www.archlou-olfe.com

Location of the Media Resources Library --

Flaget Center http://www.archlou.org/flagetcenter

PCL Meeting on January 20

2011-01-07T09:55:00.004-05:00

The next PCL meeting, sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE), will take place on Thursday, January 20, @ the Flaget Center. We hope that you choose to attend. www.archlou.org/flagetcenter

The main presenter will be Dr. Saundra Kennedy. She will give two talks: (1) Servant Leaders: Witness to Jesus, and (2) Keys to Proclaiming the Word: The Task of Catechesis.

This PCL gathering has been scheduled for 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. It will be followed immediately by a short lunch. Both the presentations by Dr. Kennedy and the lunch will be made available through the courtesy of the William H. Sadlier Company.

To register, contact Ms. Sandi Tassin at stassin@archlou.org or 502.448.8581, x. 1314.

For more information, about the January 20th event, contact Denise Pucket at 504.448.8581, x. 1315.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2010-12-21T11:48:00.005-05:00

Advent is quickly drawing to a close. Cold, winter days have arrived. The period of Christian waiting, around the globe, is drawing to a close. Four candles have been lit. --

At this time, our Faith-Formation office staff , and all of our OLFE colleagues, say to you:

Thank you for your ministry and service to the Archdiocesan Church of Louisville and in your local school or parish faith community. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Let's all work to make this holiday season 2010, and the new year of the Lord soon to come, a spiritually uplifting, happy, safe, and hope-filled period for everyone, everywhere.

Catechist-Formation: Looking Ahead to January 2011

2010-12-21T10:06:00.004-05:00

Once the New Year gets here, the Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE) will sponsor a number of catechist- and other faith-formation opportunities during January 2011. Here's what's up:

January 12 (Wednesday) -- Theology of the Church
Location: St. Stephen the Martyr Parish -- 7:00 to 9:30 PM
Presenter: Sal Della Bella, Archdiocesan Director of Faith-Formation -- Fee: $10.00
Credit: 2.5 Contact Hours toward Theology/Church requirements
Register: Contact OLFE at lmclemore@archlou.org or 502.448.8581, x. 1324

January 22 (Saturday) -- Justice Workshop: Solidarity with the Poor
Location: Cathedral Undercroft
Presenter(s): Justice Team -- Fee: $25 (includes lunch)
Credit: 6 Conact Hours in Theology/Justice area
Register: Contact OLFE at lmclemore@archlou.org or 502.448.8581, x. 1324

January 26 (Wednesday) -- The Development of the Church I *
Location: St. Stephen the Martyr Parish
Presenter: Deacon Mark Rougeux (from St. Patrick Church) -- Fee: $10.00
Credit: 2.5 Contact Hours applied to Theology/Church requirements
Register: Contact OLFE at lmclemore@archlou.org or 502.448.8581, x. 1324

* Note: Development of the Church II follows on Wednesday, February 9 (2011).
Same location, fee, and credits as for Part I (on January 26th) above.

January 29 (Saturday) -- An RCIA Team Day
Location: Flaget Center -- 9:30AM till 3:00 PM
Presenters: Parish Initiation Team Leaders -- Fee: $25 --
Credit: 4.5 Contact Hours toward Catechetics requirements
Register: Contact OLFE at lmclemore@archlou.org or 502.448.8581, x. 1324

For faith-formation opportunities scheduled beyond January 2011 -- see
http://images.acswebnetworks.com/2019/226/ALMIOLFE20102011WebCalendar.pdf

Retreat on December 18: Winter Solstice

2010-12-15T09:37:00.003-05:00

A short-notice news announcement -- but a great opportunity!

A one-day retreat, on December 18, called Winter Solstice: Celebrating Light and Darkness, will take place at Nazareth Retreat Center, in Nazareth KY (near Bardstown).

Scheduled for December 18 (Saturday), from 9:30 AM till 6:00 PM -- this event will be led by the Rev. Joseph Mitchell, C.P. The retreat will center on spiritual presentations, contemplative prayer and reflection, and a concluding Vigil Mass around 4:00 PM (followed by a light supper).

For more information, contact the Nazareth Retreat Center. A retreat fee of $25.00 will include presentations and meals.

Web: http://www.nazarethretreatcenterky.org/
Phone: 502.348.1513
E-Mail: cmckean@scnly.org

Juan Diego: A Patron Saint for Catechists & Lay Ministers

2010-12-07T14:43:00.011-05:00

This week, on December 9, the Church will observe the feast of Saint Juan Diego. In some ways, we can refer to him -- an indigenous, simple Mexican by birth -- as an original lay minister and catechist in North America, who was (centuries later) canonized a saint. The story of Juan Diego is also initmately tied to beliefs and traditions, in North and Latin American countries, centered on the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the holy site of Tepeyac Hill.

Though key historical details remain much in dispute (e.g., the first historically-sound writings about Juan Diego did not actually appear until about 1650), it is generally said that the Mexican native, named Cuauhtlatoatzin ("Talking Eagle") at birth -- later baptized as Juan Diego, was born around 1474 and grew up in a pre-Columbian village, about twenty miles north of today's Mexico City. With his wife, a Mexican peasant who who took the European name Maria Lucia, he welcomed the first Franciscans into their territory around 1525, after Cortes had brought his army from Spain. They agreed to be baptized and join the local mission church. According to limited scholarly information available, Juan Diego and his spouse remained quietly faithful, had no children, lived peacefully, and helped the local Christian (mission) community grow via their witness and marriage. However, sadly, Maria Lucia became ill and died unexpectedly in 1529.

Two years later, on his usual walk to Saturday morning Mass, on a cold December 9th (1531), the simple widower Juan Diego experienced an apparition (a personal appearance or revelation) of the Virgin Mary. She told him that a special shrine should be built on the spot, Tepeyac Hill. Soon, Juan Diego -- and other believers -- began to think of the holy young woman he had seen as 'La Virgen de Guadalupe,' and sometimes "the dark Virgin" because her skin-tone and overall likeness bore both Spanish and native-Mexican characteristics. The mysterious Virgen also commanded Juan Diego to inform the local bishop about what she wanted. After some time, that nearby bishop, a Franciscan, and the Spanish bishop of the overall region accepted that Juan Diego had indeed seen the Mother of God -- the patron saint of all the Americas. Quickly, once word of Juan Diego and La Virgen de Guadalupe became more widely known, large numbers of people in Mexico were inspired and were baptized Catholic.

In 2002, after much study and sharply-pointed discussion, John Paul II canonized Juan Diego. The Pope praised him for being a model 'of simple faith' who was nourished by the Eucharist and by catechesis --- who in turn ministered to others and catechized them, in light of the revelations he received from the Mother of God. Juan Diego's annual feast day was set on December 9, for obvious reasons.

Juan Diego remains a model of faithfulness, bold proclamation, and humility for today's catechists and lay ministers. Legend has it that he claimed to La Virgen, on Tepeyac Hill, that 'I am nobody. I am only a small rope. A little ladder. The tail end, a leaf.' Several years ago, in the United States, the National Association of Lay Ministry (NALM) established its new, annual Juan Diego Award -- an award for outstanding service by an ecclesial lay minister in the U.S. church.

December 9th has rolled around again. St. Juan Diego, pray for us all.

-- Butch Ekstrom

Feeling a Little Off-Balance?

2010-12-01T12:33:00.003-05:00

Self-Care: Finding Balance in Your Ministry!

Here's a practical workshop that will help you establish better balance in your life and ministry -- given the many activities, expectations, and possibilities of every day.

Date: Saturday, December 4 (2010)
Time: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Place: Flaget Center -- 2nd Floor www.archlou.org/flagetcenter
Fee: $10.00 per Participant
Presenters: Sharon Benton, Archdiocesan Coordinator of Planning Services + Team
Sponsor: Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE)
To Register: Call 502.448.5451, x. 1324, or E-Mail to lmclemore@archlou.org

Time to Give Thanks

2010-11-23T15:51:00.003-05:00

Please join us, the OLFE Faith-Formation staff, in pausing to give thanks to God for all the gifts, blessings, and challenges that have been given to us. We wish your family, parish community, school community, ministry staff, and -- of course -- you a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving holiday and beginning of the Advent season !

Like other Archdiocesan offices, we will close on Wednesday, November 24, at 2:30 PM. OLFE will re-open on Monday, November 29, at 8:30 AM.

Time For You

2010-11-17T14:36:00.002-05:00

Take time. Take care. Mark this Fall season with a spiritual-growth opportunity or two.

Fall Retreat Day -- A Spirituality of Waiting

A retreat oriented toward Advent that will focus on the
paradox of both longing for and discovering God in our lives.

Saturday, November 20 (2010)
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Flaget Center -- Fee: $25 (includes Lunch) www.archlou.org/flagetcenter
Presenters: Various Team Members
Sponsored by: Office of Lifelong Formation & Education
To register: 502.448.8581, x. 1324, or lmclemore@archlou.org

Self-Care: Finding Balance in Your Ministry

A workshop that will help you better balance your life, given the
many commitments and stressful expectations of our day.

Saturday, December 4 (2010)
9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Location: Flaget Center -- Fee: $10.00 www.archlou.org/flagetcenter
Presenters: Sharon Benton, Archdiocesan Coordinator of Planning Services + Team
Sponsored by: Office of Lifelong Formation & Education
To register: 502.448.8581, x. 1324, or lmclemore@archlou.org

Team-Training for Why Catholic? Program -- November 15-20 (2010)

2010-11-09T11:42:00.004-05:00

The next phase of team-preparation and training -- for the Why Catholic? program in the Archdiocese -- has been scheduled for November 15-20 (2010).

The title of this team-training phase will be "Catholic Evangelization: Creating a Parish Plan." Workshops have been scheduled over four days:

Monday, November 15, 7:00 - 9:00 PM -- @ St. Margaret Mary Parish (Hospitality Room)

Tuesday, November 16, 9:00 - 11:00 AM -- @Maloney Center (Rooms 1-2)

Tuesday, November 16, 7:00 - 9:00 PM -- @ St. James in Elizabethtown (Gymnasium)

Wednesday, November 17, 9:00 - 11:00 AM -- Epiphany Parish (in Community Center)

Wednesday, November 17, 7:00 - 9:00 PM -- @ Flaget Center (Gymnasium)

Thursday, November 18, 7:00 - 9:00 PM -- @ St. Augustine in Lebanon (Parish Center)

Note: Parish teams need to attend only one of the workshop options.

This training experience is designed to help pastors and parish team members to better understand the process of Catholic evangelization. Also, the relationship between evangelization and catechesis will be examined. Finally, concrete and practical strategies for outreach and invitation -- particularly to to nominal and inactive Catholics -- will be discussed.

Each of the November 15-18 sessions will be presented in English. The facilitator for each meeting will be Sr. Pat Thomas, O.P., a member of the RENEW International staff, from New Jersey.

Two presentations of the workshop "Catholic Evangleization: Creating a Parish Plan" will be offered on Saturday, November 20, in Spanish.

Saturday, November 20, 10:00 - 12 Noon -- @ St. Rita Parish in Okalona (Parish Center)

Saturday, November 20, 2:00 - 4:00 PM -- @ St. James Parish in Elizabethtown

The twin Spanish language sessions will be presented by Mr. Manuel Hernandez, also from the RENEW International staff in New Jersey.

For additional information, contact Sal Della Bella at the Office of Lifelong Formation and Education (OLFE) at 502.448.8581 or SDB@archlou.org -- or see the Archdiocesan webpage www.archlou.org/whycatholic

Visit OLFE @ Hispanic Heritage Fiesta (October 30)

2010-10-29T10:34:00.004-04:00

On Saturday, Ocotber 30, persons from many places throughout the Archdiocese will gather for a day-long celebration called Dia de la Raza (Hispanic Heritage Festival), sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Minstry. It will be held from 11 AM to 7 PM at the Flaget Center.

This fiesta for local Catholics will be a first of its kind. It will mark the gifts and presence of the many Hispanics within our Archdiocese, and will also unveil the recent pastoral plan -- published by the Louisville archdiocese -- on initiatives in Hispanic Ministry.

OLFE will exhibit at the Dia de la Raza. Look for us there and visit us! Learn what we have to offer to parishes, schools, and individuals.

A Pause for Spiritual Refreshment

2010-10-07T16:00:00.002-04:00

In need of a spiritually refreshing break today? Like you will be again tomorrow? And the day after that . . . ? Many busy and over-scheduled catechists, and others in ministry, use podcasts to help them pray right at their work computers, on a home PC, on an i-Pod player in the car, at the grocery, or during periods of exercise.

Many persons new to this idea ask, What is a podcast?

The word podcast first appeared around 2004. It is a blend of the term iPod (Apple's very popular, portable media player) and the word broadcast. Podcast has fast become a term more widely used than its fore-runner, 'webcast.' A podcast is a digital media file (or several files), featuring audio or video, or both. Podcasts can be one episode long, or stretched over several parts. A computer-user (like you) "catches" -- or "grabs" -- a podcast by accessing its file(s) over the internet. If you have the right computer hardware and software, the podcast is 'grabbed' from the webpage of the person or company, such as Loyola Press below, that innovated the program. After the download, the podcast appears on your PC monitor, on your iPod, or can be saved and stored for use some other time.

Some good news. Certain podcasts can help busy people, in modern ministries, to take a spiritually-refreshing pause at any time -- especially during a complicated work day.

Here are a few podcasts to sample. Note: if you happen upon a spiritually-helpful podcast not mentioned, post information about it in Comments below. Let's pray on. And keep this conversation going.

The Divine Office http://divineoffice.org/

The SaintCast http://web.mac.com/pcamarata/SaintCast/Home.html

Daily Inspirations www.LoyolaPress.com/daily-inspirations.htm

The Other 6 http://www.other6.com/

(The Other 6 is actually a virtual community -- and a standing invitation, to you, extended by Loyola Press -- that is dedicated to finding God during the other 6 days of the week besides Sunday.)

3-Minute Retreats http://www.loyolapress.com/online-community-3-minute-retreats.htm

Online Retreat (Ignatian Spirituality)http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/cmo-retreat.html

On another final note, if you'd like to follow a thoughtful and practical faith formation blog (besides this one, of course) -- take a look at Catechist's Journey, by author and 8th grade catechist, Joe Paprocki. Joe always seems to have something interesting to say.

(You can also get Catechist's Journey by e-mail) -- http://catechistsjourney.loyolapress.com/

Announcement: Media Resource Center

2010-10-05T14:06:00.008-04:00

Announcement. Yes, we now have a temporary webpage for our Media Resources Center.

www.archlou-olfe.com

Want more help or information?

Call 502.448.8581, x. 1325 -- or e-mail: BHagan@archlou.org

Saint Francis of Assisi and Other Radical Followers of Christ

2010-10-04T16:36:00.010-04:00

October is an eventful month for the praying Church, during which we celebrate our respect for all human life, the Rosary, and some of our most beloved saints: Therese of Lisieux, the "Little Flower" (October 1), Teresa of Avila, reformer and mystic (Otober 15) -both Doctors of the Church - along with St. Luke (October 18) and Saints Simon and Jude (October 28), as well as the Guardian Angels (October 2).

Perhaps one of the most widely known and yet often misunderstood saints is Francis of Assisi, whose feast we celebrate on October 4. Often sentimentally depicted, Francis sometimes is reduced to one aspect of his belief - the importance of caring for all of God's creation - while ignoring the richness of his more complex spiritual legacy. A lively description of his life and heritage can be found in an entry by Fr. James Martin, SJ on the October 4, 2010 edition of the America magazine blog "In All Things" at www.americamagazine.org.

"We adore you and we bless you, Lord Jesus Christ, here and in all the churches which are in the whole world, because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world" (St. Francis).

NALM Workshop on October 28 -- Telling Our Ministry Story

2010-09-30T10:10:00.007-04:00

Here's a new announcement. A one-day, regional gathering for all persons involved in lay ministry -- Telling Our Story -- will be held on Thursday, October 28, from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM. It will take place at Immaculate Conception Parish, in LaGrange KY. Interested parties are invited.

This special, one-time event will be presented by the National Association for Lay Ministry (NALM). The Archdiocesan Office of Lifelong Formation & Education (OLFE) and Immaculate Conception Parish staff -- in the Archdiocese of Louisville -- are working with NALM to coordinate and implement this workshop.

The official invitation to Telling Our Story says:

Gather with lay ministers from across the regional area to discuss your ministry, various lay ministries, and the future of lay ministry. An interactive workshop process will include storytelling, table dialogues, and a presentation by Mr. Chris Anderson, the executive director of NALM. This will be a unique gathering across diocesan and state lines, while drawing a particular focus on your
local ministry situation.

The fee for the workshop, materials, and lunch will be $20 per person ($30 after October 22). All comments, questions, and/or meeting registrations should be directed to the NALM office in Washington D.C. -- http://www.nalm.org/ -- (e-mail) nalm@nalm.org and/or (phone) 202.291.4100.

Catholic Internet Guide -- Readers' Choice 2010

2010-09-24T13:48:00.004-04:00

The number of Catholic-centered websites grows day by day. Trying to keep focused on those that are truly useful is hard. There are particular "classics" and, of course, hidden treasures waiting, in cyberspace, to be discovered. But how to keep track of it all . . . . ?

During August, Our Sunday Visitor published the third edition of its annual Catholic Internet Guide -- Reader's Choice 2010 (www.osv.com). This simple and practical Guide is organized into six categories:

-- Catholic applications (a.k.a. apps) -- News and other resource websites
-- Christian spirituality webpages -- Opinion blogs and webpages
-- Community-building webpages -- Catholic bloggers' favorite websites

Some webpage recommendations are obvious keepers. Others are internet resources that largely remain hidden to the average, Catholic web-surfer.

The OSV Catholic Internet Guide 2010 can be found via the long weblink below. By the way, this webpage offers easy access to a printer-friendly version of the Guide for you, your ministry colleagues, staff members, parents, and others. Other interactive features include (a) a tool to e-mail the Guide to whomever, (b) a tool to post ('share') this Guide on Facebook or Twitter, etc., and (c) an opportunity to make comments to the OSV Guide staff and other users of the Guide.

Weblink: http://www.osv.com/tabid/7621/itemid/6762/OSVs-Catholic-Guide-to-the-Internet--Readers-ch.aspx

I spent several hours digging into this practical resource guide recently, and learned quite a bit. If you try it, too, as the OSV editors say, 'May your web surfing deepen your faith!'

Faith Formation Celebration 2010

2010-09-23T15:54:00.016-04:00

The ministry of catechesis is especially highlighted at the annual Faith Formation Celebration, which coincides with Catechetical Sunday. The celebration began on Friday evening, September 22nd with Liturgy presided by Archbishop Kurtz at the beautiful, newly remodeled St. Lawrence Church. Those who completed significant faith formation endeavors were recognized and congratulated for their success and dedication to their faith formation. A festive reception followed after the ceremony which allowed participants to share stories and laughter about their experiences in faith formation.

The Thomas Duerr Award recognizes parishes and schools that are noted for Excellence in Catechesis. The recipients are: St. Brigid, John Paul II Academy, St. Nicholas Academy, and Sacred Heart Academy.

The Roncalli Award recognizes those who made a notable difference through the ministry of catechesis. The recipients are: Rev. Robert Stuempel, Mrs. Lois Hunn, and Mrs. Margaret Polin.

Mrs. Sandy Key was recognized and presented with an award for her 27 years of service as a volunteer catechist.

The photos give a taste of what a festive night it was for all those present. Many thanks for your commitment to ongoing formation!

Featured Speaker (Sept. 18) -- "Strong Marriages" Workshop

2010-09-22T09:40:00.007-04:00

The Office of Lifelong Formation and Education (OLFE) sponsored, on September 18, a workshop called "Building Strong Catholic Marriages -- Through Lifelong Catechesis." The featured presenter was Daniel Mulhall, M.A.

E-Mail: dmulhall@rclbenziger.com
Webpage: http://www.rclbenziger.com/

The workshop, in honor and celebration of of Catechetical Sunday 2010 in the U.S. Church, was attended and well-received by 45 persons from parishes throughout the Archdiocese. It centered on lecture material, by Mr. Mulhall, and periodic, spirited responses, comments, and questions by those in attendance.

About the Speaker

Daniel Mulhall, M.A. is a native of Louisville KY. He is graduate of PRP High School – and went on from there to attend and graduate, with a Bachelors degree, from Bellarmine University. Dan also has earned a Master of Arts degree, in Theology, from The Catholic University of America, in Washington, DC. He earned a second graduate degree – a Master of Arts in Adult Christian Community Development --from Regis College in Denver, Colorado.

After serving for many years at the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops’ headquarters, in Washington, as a national catechetical and multi-cultural ministry specialist, Dan has changed jobs quite recently. He now serves full-time as the National Catechetical Advisor for the RCL Benziger publishing company. In describing his presentation for the September 18 workshop on "Building Strong Marriages," he says, 'Catechesis has (a role in) promoting and supporting the Sacrament of Marriage. My presentation will offer suggestions on what the role of catechesis should be, from cradle to the grave, towards building healthy marriages. Also, Dan will offer a specialized session, later in the workshop, entitled “Involving Parents in the Faith Formation of Their Children.” He lives with his wife of over 30 years, Kathleen (they were wed in Holy Family Church here in the Archdiocese), and they have three young adult children and one grandson of whom they are very proud.

What Some People Are Saying about the "Why Catholic?" Program

2010-09-17T13:46:00.010-04:00

Have you been curious about the upcoming Why Catholic? program?
Many groups of Why Catholic? participants will start meeting during Lent 2011 in our Archdiocese. Right now, an important period of team-formation and team-building, training, and program-planning is underway, currently, in over 90 parishes in our Archdiocese!
Of course, this will be a major undertaking overall for our Church. And Why Catholic? will help us all address, in a united way, key elements of our current Archdiocesan strategic plan.
For a worlds-eye view of Why Catholic? – in English or in Spanish (PorQue Ser Catolico?) -- visit the website of RENEW International: www.renewintl.org

Here, below, are a few things that people have said once they have had the Chance to experience Why Catholic? --

Church Leaders in the U.S.

"When the Catechism of the Catholic Church first came out, I was delighted since it is a comprehensive, up-to-date formulation of our beliefs and joys as Catholics. But I wondered how we might unpack its content for Catholics in the pews. Why Catholic? is a fine answer to my question. The material is arranged for use by small faith-sharing groups, thus enabling participants to better understand their faith and share it. The questions are thought provoking and interesting. I heartily recommend Why Catholic? "
Most. Rev. Michael Sheehan
Archbishop of Santa Fe (NM)

"Why Catholic? seeks to be an instrument for faith formation and a call to holiness. Saints in everyday life are the strength of the Church, which is always renewing itself in fidelity to the mission of Christ and in service to the needs of our society. I heartily commend this effort in making the Catechism of the Catholic Church more accessible to the faithful."
Most Rev. John J. Myers, J.C.D., D.D.
Archbishop of Newark (NJ)

"I am very grateful for all that you have done to bring Why Catholic? alive in our Diocese. This program and process is really helping all of our people to understand better why they are Catholics and to live their faith in a more dynamic manner."
Most Rev. Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI
Bishop of San Angelo (TX)

“The Why Catholic? program is well serving the needs of both Anglo and Hispanic people.”
Most Rev. Wilton D. Gregory
Archbishop of Atlanta (GA)

" . . . . the members of our diocesan team contacted directors from other dioceses that were already doing the program. The response we got from them was very enthusiastic. There was a consensus that the RENEW staff was excellent and that the materials and input they offered was very helpful."
Jim Kemna,
Director of Religious Education, Diocese of Jefferson City (MO)

“(It’s) well organized. It made me feel very enthusiastic about going with the program."
Patricia Spiegel
Stewardship and Adult Formation Coordinator
St. Lawrence the Martyr Church, Sayville, NY

"All parish organizations as well as small Christian communities, can be effective vehicles for evangelization and adult faith formation by using Why Catholic? It combines the best of faith-learning, faith-sharing, and faith-living!

Very Rev. E. Michael Camilli, M.S.C., Director of Adult Faith Formation, Diocese of Allentown PA

"The benefit of Why Catholic? . . . allows the truths of the Catechism of the Catholic Church to touch the realities of everyday life. Any individual or any group who chooses to participate in this will benefit significantly from learning how to live within the context of a greater and more Catholic relationship."
Dorothy Berman, MA
Youth Director, Mt. Manresa Retreat House

Small Group Participants

“I want my kids to believe. Why Catholic? is deepening my faith and teaching me how to pray. It is helping my faith seed out into my children.”
Amy M.
Toronto, Ohio

“Why Catholic? is great! I may now actually read, and even study, the Catechism rather than occasionally just looking up a topic or two.”
Louise A.
Atlanta, Georgia

“The sign of the cross has always been a gesture of habit… Since I started Why Catholic? I stop and reflect on the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”

Veronica M.
Flemington, NJ

“Before Why Catholic? I shied away from religious questions. Now, by learning more about the richness and traditions of my Catholic faith, I share faith more confidently.”
David M.
Prattville, Alabama

“The most rewarding thing was this—we had a person in our group who had not been very involved in the Church. She was a product of Catholic schooling, but she had not been to confession in 33 years. After our discussions, she decided to go to our Penance Service. I feel Why Catholic? was definitely a new beginning for her.”

Jacque B.
Peachtree City, Georgia

“Why Catholic? helped strengthen my marriage. We use this as our tool to reconnect . . .
Greg N.
Daphne, Alabama

“Why Catholic? has reminded me of my roots and why I am Catholic. My mother always said being Catholic is more than a religion—it’s a way of life.”
Kimberly D.
Atlanta, GA

Marriage Resources for Catechetical Sunday

2010-09-09T15:31:00.003-04:00

As we prepare to celebrate Catechetical Sunday on September 19th, with the theme of “Matrimony: Sign of Enduring Love”, here are some resources to assist you in your ministry. All are available in the Media Center.

After the Glass Slipper: 8 Proven Steps to Lasting Love
BK5080 Adult
This book continues the fairy tale, revealing that Cinderella and the Prince also experience marital conflicts.

Annulment: The Wedding That Was
BK5227 Adult
This book addresses the question: There was a wedding…but was there a marriage?

Handbook for Catholic Moms: Nurturing Your Heart, Mind, Body, and Soul
BK5081 Adult
This book draws from the deep tradition of the Catholic faith in coaching Catholic moms to care for themselves.

Happy Together: The Catholic Blueprint for a Loving Marriage
BK5077
This book identifies and focuses on six key aspects of a loving marriage and uses stories and examples to illustrate each.

Marriage: Love and Life in the Divine Plan
BK5072 Adult
This is the most recent publication by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops on marriage.

Sacrament of Matrimony: Past, Present, Future
DVD0187 High School and Adult
This DVD leads viewers through the development and history of this sacrament.

Sacraments: We Commit: Marriage
VC4161 Grades 4-6 and Junior High
This video discusses the lifelong love and service through marriage.

When a Catholic Marries a Non-Catholic
BK5082 Adult
This book offers a pastoral approach to dealing with the difficulties Catholics face in marrying someone from another faith background.

LIMEX Graduation

2010-06-17T11:32:00.016-04:00

Spring is a season of graduations, and this year a very special commencement was celebrated in the Archdiocese of Louisville. The first group of learners completed the Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program (LIMEX) and received their degrees and certificates. The graduates completed an extensive program of study in order to earn either a Master's degree or certificate in Pastoral Studies offered through Loyola University in New Orleans. LIMEX is designed to enable adults to complete graduate studies locally while still working and being with their families. For more information on what LIMEX has to offer, please see the detailed description at www.archlou.org/article24587.htm. Congratulations to the graduates! Many thanks to Michelle Herberger and Art Turner for serving as facilitators and to Archbishop Joseph Kurtz for his continued support.

Dawn Ellen DellaBella

Master of Pastoral Studies

Laura Norris Graven

Master of Pastoral Studies

Donna Marie McHugh

Master of Pastoral Studies

Denise Meyer

Master of Pastoral Studies

William "Bill" Moss

Certificate of Pastoral Studies

Rhonda Lynn Orman

Certificate of Pastoral Studies

Cecelia Hart Price

Master of Pastoral Studies

Mary Catherine Rademaker

Master of Pastoral Studies

Julie Ann Stuart

Master of Pastoral Studies

Joy Marie Trimble

Master of Pastoral Studies

The Loyola Institute for Ministry Scholar Award

The Loyola Institute for Ministry Scholar Award recognizes excellence in Scholarship, Leadership and Service in a graduate from the Loyola Institute for Ministry.

Dawn Ellen DellaBella

The Month of Mary

2010-05-11T15:46:00.007-04:00

Hail, O Tabernacle of God the Word;

hail, Holy One, more holy than the saints.

Hail, O Ark that the spirit has gilded;

hail, sacred Glory of reverent priests.

Hail, unshakable Tower of the Church;

hail, unbreakable Wall of the Kingdom.

Hail, O you through whom the trophies are raised.

hail, O you through whom the enemies are routed.

Hail, O Healing of my body;

hail, O Salvation of my soul.

Hail, O Bride and Maiden everpure.

(Akathist Hymn)

This prayer from the Byzantine tradition honors Mary as the Theotokos or God-bearer. An akathist is a hymn in honor of Mary or a saint which is traditional in the Eastern Churches. Many of these prayers were composed to illustrate the virtues of the Blessed Mother and highlight her role in salvation history. Icons are often designed to mirror the descriptions or titles of Mary within the prayer. The icon pictured above is of the Theotokos Merciful. More information on, and an ancient example of, the akathist prayer form can be found at www.stsymeon.com/akathist.html. The poetic and reverent language of this prayer may inspire an increase in your own devotion to the Blessed Mother.

This translation of an akathist can be found in Mary 101: Tradition and Influence, a new book by Mary Ann Zimmer, ND, PhD from Ligouri Publications. This text offers an introduction to Mary and some of the traditions surrounding her. It includes an exploration of Mary in Scripture, Church teaching, prayers, and devotions. Marian apparitions and artwork are examined, along with background information, reflection questions, and suggestions for further reading on Marian issues. It is available in the Media Center (BK5083.1).

May is traditionally "Mary's month". Take some time this month to learn more about the Mother of God and our Mother. You may find something new to enhance your prayer and spiritual practice.

And They're Off!

2010-05-07T10:41:00.056-04:00

On Thursday, May 6, Flaget Center was transformed into Flaget Downs for the PCL Appreciation event, "A Day at the Races". Parish Catechetical Leaders from across the Archdiocese of Louisville came together for prayer, food, (wooden) horse racing and festivity. Many of the ladies (and at least one gentleman) arrived wearing Derby hats and a grand time was had by all.

Awards for years of service were presented, followed by a delicious Derby-themed luncheon and lively conversation. Those honored for twenty or more years of catechetical ministry included: Dr. Bruce Jacobs (20), Margee Joseph (20), Monica Lucas (22), Brenda Rickert (21), Marie Seaman, SFCC (45), and Marian Stenken, SCN (25).

The pictures offer only a glimpse of the excitement and laughter that ensued when PCL jockeys mounted their horses for two energetic races. In the PCL Oaks, winning jockey Theresa Secord on Bingo's Dead made a great showing on a fast track. Lucky bettor Mike Luescher profited nicely from the win. After a reverent singing of "My Old Kentucky Home", the fun continued in the PCL Derby, where winning jockey Dawn Della Bella swiftly brought Immaculate Harry around the track to victory. Pat Finck happily took home the winnings.

Many thanks to the Parish Catechetical Leaders who bring faith to life in our Archdiocese. May you be blessed with every grace and gift for your ministry. You are all winners!

Alleluia!

2010-04-04T01:26:00.002-04:00

(Scenes from the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral earlier this week, when the holy oils were blessed for use throughout the Archdiocese of Louisville.)

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!

The Triduum is completed and we have celebrated what St. Augustine called the "Mother of all great vigils" where more than 500 new Catholics were welcomed home into the Body of Christ within the Archdiocese of Louisville. We now sing again the great "alleluia" which we have missed during Lent, proclaiming with joy that Christ has conquered death forever. As we celebrate these 50 days of gladness, may we remember all those who stand in need of our prayers and of Christ's presence amidst their suffering. To those who are hungry or homeless, sorrowing or fearful, we announce the good news - Christ is Risen! - with our hands and hearts extended in love. Blessings to you and yours in this holy and festive season of new life.

Untold Blessing

2010-03-16T14:36:00.008-04:00

Now that we are well into the rhythm of Lent, we continue to reflect on the meaning of the season and our spiritual progress. One resource you may want to consider viewing is the video series "Untold Blessing: Three Paths to Holiness" by Father Robert Barron. This enagaging six-part series is available on the Archdiocesan website at http://www.archlou.org/article234043.htm?body=1.
You can see more of his work on his website at http://www.wordonfire.org/.

(Catechist Credit is available with completion of registration and study guide questions. Contact Denise at dpuckett@archlou.org to register for credit.)

Ash Wednesday

2010-02-17T16:32:00.004-05:00

Today we are invited to "turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel" as we receive a cross of ashes and begin our Lenten journey. To turn away from sin seems obvious enough; we know how to keep the commandments and avoid the things that lead us away from union with God. But what does it mean to be faithful to the Gospel? How do we understand the person of Jesus Christ and our relationship with Him? How do we live the Good News that He brought to the world?

This Lent, allow yourself the luxury of slowing down enough to pay attention to the details of your faith life. Spend more time in prayer, both privately and communally. Fast from whatever distracts you. Give generously (whether of your material resources or your own self) to those most in need. Live in keeping with your beliefs. Prepare to renew your baptismal promises at Easter. And rejoice! "Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Corinthians 6:2

Happy Lent!

Amid the Cold of Winter

2010-02-12T22:58:00.022-05:00

As the winter wind blows and the snow falls quietly, let us take a moment to pause and prepare for the fast-approaching Lenten season. "Praying Lent" is a rich resource from Creighton University which offers a variety of prayers, an audio retreat and tools for parish and personal reflection. Explore the options available online at their extensive site.

An experiment in "letting go" of things during Lent may help you consider new perspectives on an ancient practice. Whatever you choose to do this Lent, may it bring you to a greater awareness of Christ's presence.

Resources for Lent

2010-01-20T15:59:00.001-05:00

As we prepare for the season of Lent, here are some resources to assist you in your ministry and personal prayer. All are available in the Media Center.

A Lenten Journey
CD0114.1 Adult
This CD presents the stories and scriptures of Lent in song. Musicians include Bob Hurd & Anawim.

Angel’s Lenten Lesson
VC1682.1 Primary – Middle
This video teaches children the practices of Lent and encourages them to renew their commitment to follow Jesus.

Bridges to Contemplative Living with Thomas Merton
BK4871.1 Adult
This book offers readers an introduction to contemplative dialogue and is suitable for small group reflection. Themes include: 1) Where do we turn for forgiveness? 2) In all things, always seeking God, and 3) In the service of peace through humility and prayer.

Guided Meditations for Lent
KI0048.1 Junior High – Adult
These meditations on the themes of desert surrender can be used for retreats, prayer days and meetings. The kit includes a leader’s guide and a recording of the meditation scripts.

Learning Center for Lent by Doris Murphy
BK4814.1 Early Childhood - Adult
This book offers creative centers for learning about Lent. It presents a unique opportunity for adults and children to learn about this liturgical season – together.

The Cross of Christ
DVD0112.1 Adult
In this DVD, Ron Rolheiser, OMI, explores how the Cross calls us beyond ourselves, our own agenda, and our own life without resentment.

The Passion of Christ
DVD 0125.1 Adult
In this DVD, Ron Rolheiser, OMI, explores Jesus the lover, who undergoes moral and emotional sufferings without resentment or bitterness.

The Proud Tree
BK1394.1 Early Childhood – Primary
This book is the story of the crucifixion told from the viewpoint of the tree that became the Cross of Calvary.
It is also available as a computer-animated video (VC0815.1).

The Women of the Passion by Kathleen M. Murphy
BK4785.1 Adult
This book unravels the stories of the women who accompanied Jesus during his last days. Each chapter ends with heart-searching questions making it suitable for small group reflection.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T13:01:00.003-05:00

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.
You have brought them abundant joy and great rejoicing... (Isaiah 9)

May the the light of Christ surround you and those you love in this Christmas season and give you reason to rejoice at the coming of our Lord!

Fourth Week in Advent

2009-12-22T11:26:00.002-05:00

Within Our Reach: Joy
— by Fra Giovanni Giocondo

Fra Giovanni Giocondo (c.1435–1515) was a Renaissance pioneer, accomplished as an architect, engineer, antiquary, archaeologist, classical scholar, and Franciscan friar. Today we remember him most for his reassuring letter to Countess Allagia Aldobrandeschi on Christmas Eve, 1513.
I salute you. I am your friend, and my love for you goes deep. There is nothing I can give you which you have not. But there is much, very much, that, while I cannot give it, you can take. No heaven can come to us unless our hearts find rest in it today. Take heaven! No peace lies in the future which is not hidden in this present little instant.

Take peace! The gloom of the world is but a shadow. Behind it, yet within our reach, is joy. There is radiance and glory in darkness, could we but see. And to see, we have only to look. I beseech you to look!

Life is so generous a giver. But we, judging its gifts by their covering, cast them away as ugly or heavy or hard. Remove the covering, and you will find beneath it a living splendor, woven of love by wisdom, with power. Welcome it, grasp it, and you touch the angel's hand that brings it to you.

Everything we call a trial, a sorrow or a duty, believe me, that angel's hand is there. The gift is there and the wonder of an overshadowing presence. Your joys, too, be not content with them as joys. They, too, conceal diviner gifts.

Life is so full of meaning and purpose, so full of beauty beneath its covering, that you will find earth but cloaks your heaven. Courage then to claim it; that is all! But courage you have, and the knowledge that we are pilgrims together, wending through unknown country home.

Third Week of Advent

2009-12-16T14:31:00.002-05:00

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near. Have no anxiety… (Philippians 4-6). The third week of Advent calls us to be filled with joy - an exceedingly abundant joy that fills our hearts and minds with the peace and love of God. In the midst of the hustle and bustle these final few days of preparing for Christmas, allow some time to take a holy pause and reflect on the deep joy of knowing we are embraced by God’s love and how that love has made a profound difference in our lives.

Second Week of Advent and the Immaculate Conception

2009-12-14T16:28:00.000-05:00

Luke 3:1-6 and Luke 1:26-38

The second week of Advent brings together two key figures of the season: John the Baptist and Mary, the Mother of the Savior. John is featured during the second Sunday of Advent as the one “crying out in the desert”; Mary, of course, has a special day honoring her Immaculate Conception. What do they have in common? Both said “yes” to their respective callings to serve God; in fact, they completely surrender their wills to the Father. This is why John is free to make his controversial proclamations in preparing for “the way of the Lord” and why Mary could willingly embrace the responsibilities of pregnancy before she is actually married. Contrast their “yes” with the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the first reading for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. In the end, both John and Mary were obedient to God. Can we allow our Advent journey to lead us to a renewed sense of obedience to God’s invitation? What keeps us from saying “Yes”? This Advent season, may we find our voice and the courage to say “yes” to our calling.

First Week of Advent

2009-12-07T13:11:00.001-05:00

Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

The Gospel for the first Sunday of Advent is filled with fearful apocalyptic imagery which may cause one to ask, “What does this have to do with Advent?” The Gospel reminds us that the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes is also the cosmic Christ who will return in glory, bringing about a transformation of the world that is unlike anything humanity has experienced. Our response is to be ready-to “stand erect” and be a people of hope in the midst of the chaos. In a world filled with fear, financial uncertainty, terrorism, and poverty, the challenge of the Gospel is certainly relevant for us now. Advent reminds us that the disciples of the infant are called to wait and witness with vigilance and intention, looking beyond the everyday cares of life to find that glimmer of the Kingdom that Jesus promised.

Resources for Advent

2009-11-25T14:09:00.002-05:00

As another new liturgical year begins, here are some resources to assist you in your ministry and personal prayer. All are available in the Media Center.

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom Series from Ligouri

This series from Ligouri offers daily reflections that can be used for personal or communal prayer and meditation during the Christmas cycle of the liturgical year.

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from G.K. Chesterton
BK4721.1 Adult

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from Henri J. M. Nouwen
BK5048.1 Adult

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from Padre Pio
BK5049.1 Adult

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from Pope John Paul II
BK5050.1 Adult

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from St. Francis of Assisi
BK5052.1 Adult

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from St. Thomas Aquinas
BK5053.1 Adult

In God’s Name by Sandy Eisenberg Sasso
BK4758.1 Early Childhood – Adult
This is a beautiful children’s book which describes various images of God and how they are reflective of God’s true identity.
It is also available as a computer-animated video (VC2206.1).

Joshua
VC4200.1 Junior High – Adult
Based on the best-selling novel by Joseph Girzone, this is an inspirational story about a stranger whose mysterious “supernatural” powers influence a whole town.

Juan Diego: Messenger of Guadalupe
VD0035.1 Early Childhood – Middle Grades
The story of how the Blessed Mother chose Juan Diego for a key role in a miracle that would transcend cultures is presented in English, Spanish, and French.

Prepare the Way of the Lord: Instrumental Music for Advent and Lent
CD0153.1 Adult
This CD of instrumental music by David Phillips contains traditional hymns for these seasons.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T13:43:00.003-05:00

We set aside a day to feast with family and friends and offer thanks for our many blessings. As we gather with loved ones this week, let us remember the Lord and Giver of Life who provides for all of our needs. May you and your family find peace and joy in this time of rest and celebration.

Discovering Your Strengths

2009-11-10T11:17:00.004-05:00

Do you find yourself dwelling on your weaknesses a lot?
Do you know what your strengths are? Can you describe them in detail?
Are there any activities at which you consistently excel?
What percentage of a typical day do you spend doing things that play to your strengths?

These are just a few of the questions more than 100 parish and agency leaders came together to reflect upon during last week’s Archdiocesan Leadership Institute (ALI) “Discovering your Strengths”. Thirty-four dominant signature themes with thousands of possible combinations were introduced utilizing the Clifton StrengthsFinder, a 25-year, multi-million dollar effort by Gallup to help a person identify their most prevalent strengths. We concluded the day with teams creating a model that represents their understanding of collaboration (see pictures). To find out more about how you might discover your strengths, contact us today. Books are still available or a member of our team can come out and facilitate the process for you and your staff.

Equipped for the Ministry

2009-09-30T15:33:00.009-04:00

Catechists do not merely instruct their students about Christ; they lead them to him (NDC, no. 55). The fundamental task of catechesis is to hand on the faith and help others to learn how to live as disciples in Christ. As catechists, we learn what it means to be disciples in Christ through our own education and formation in the faith. During the Faith Formation Celebration, Archbishop Kurtz highlighted the training and formation programs in the Archdiocese as an opportunity for catechists to be equipped for the ministry by developing “more deeply as a disciple and follower of Jesus Christ in how you think, in how you feel and how you act, your whole person.”

The Specialization in Catechetical Ministry is designed to educate and form catechists in their esteemed role in the church. It has the following three-fold purpose to equip catechists for their ministry: 1) to provide spiritual growth, 2) to increase theological knowledge, and 3) to expand skills in teaching methods. With all three areas of formation, catechists gain the confidence, knowledge, and competency to carry out their task in catechesis.

Over 150 catechists were recognized during the Faith Formation Celebration for their achievement in completing one or more of the three levels of Catechetical Specialization. Their dedication and commitment to learning about their faith, taking time to nurture their faith, and developing skills signify the value they place on their call as a catechist. As we continue in the ministry of catechesis, may we, as catechists, diligently walk the path of discipleship through our own education and formation in the faith, so that we may effectively echo the good news of Jesus Christ to others.

Following are pictures of some “joyful catechists” having a great time at the Faith Formation Celebration.

Faith Formation Celebration at the Cathedral

2009-09-23T15:33:00.005-04:00

There was a large and joyful crowd gathered at the Cathedral of the Assumption on Tuesday evening, September 22, celebrating the faith formation activities throughout the Archdiocese of Louisville. Recognition was given to more than 200 people for their completion of one or more areas of training in the area of faith formation this past year. Archbishop Kurtz gave a wonderful homily which highlighted the importance of being properly prepared for ministry. We thought that you would like to hear and reflect upon his insights. Click on the icon below.

Adult Faith Formation: New Ideas and a Workshop with Tom Zanzig

2009-09-23T14:36:00.003-04:00

Many of our parishes struggle with how to engage adults in lifelong learning. We often hear the lament:"They just won't come to anything!" Even when we offer a wide array of programs and formation opportunities, the numbers in attendance may be low. People say that they want certain things - Scripture studies, faith-sharing groups, guest speakers on Catholic teaching, etc. - but then few people show up for the actual event. What's wrong with this picture?

Tom Zanzig, a veteran catechetical speaker and author, thinks that we are going about this the wrong way. Instead of simply asking people to come to the parish for programs, he offers new ways to equip adults to undertake their own spiritual journeys and develop a mature faith. His approach emphasizes helping people to take responsibility for their own formation and allowing them to emply a wide variety of methods to do so. In honor of the 10th anniversary of the USCCB pastoral plan Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us it seems appropriate to reflect on what we have accomplished so far and re-examine our priorities and approaches to Adult Faith Formation.

On Saturday, October 17, from 9:30 AM - 4 PM at Flaget Center we are hosting a workshop with Tom Zanzig that he calls, "Adult Faith Formation: If It Is Broke, Let's Fix It!" This day is designed for all those who work with adults - in any capacity (which means everyone, at some point) - in order to help us guide others in their own formation. Adult Faith Formation leaders and teams, RCIA coordinators and teams, Parish Catechetcial Leaders and catechists, Pastoral Associates, Principals and teachers, Youth and Young Adult Ministers, Priests and Deacons are all encouraged to attend. Please invite anyone in your parish who is interested in seeing Adult Faith Formation grow and flourish. It will be an energetic and enlightening day, so plan to bring a group and share in the adventure! To register, please contact Linda McLemore at lmclemore@archlou.org or 502-448-8581. For the complete registration form and details, go to our OLFE main page at www.archlou.org/article27595.htm and look for the AFF workshop title.
The registration deadline is October 9th. We look forward to seeing you there!

Pastoral Supervision

2009-09-15T11:14:00.002-04:00

The Faith Formation cluster is forming new pastoral supervision groups to begin in January, 2010. Each group (3 persons) meets once a month for 2 ½ hours at a location convenient to the members. Groups have a supervisor trained in pastoral supervision.

Pastoral supervision is a nonjudgmental process that helps the minister look at his/her strengths as well as those parts of the self to which one is often “blind” and yet nevertheless get played out in ministry. The following is a testimony given by a pastoral associate who has been in supervision for five months.

I joined a ministry supervision group at the beginning of spring. I had been a participant in ALMI’s “Discipleship Specialization” and greatly enjoyed the program. It had given me time to meet and form bonds with others in a small group setting. We were able to talk and reflect upon our experiences in order to discern to what and where God was leading us. I really missed that and when I saw the opportunity for that sort of experience in supervision, I felt it may help fill that void.

In supervision, I have been able to meet and form relationships with others who are in similar ministry positions. The three of us are in large parishes in the Archdiocese. In the largest of parishes, it is easy to become isolated in your ministry. There is so much that goes on all the time that you sometimes slip into a pattern of doing, but not always being conscious of what you’re doing or even why. You often make decisions in your ministry and after the situation occurs, wonder “why did I do that?” It’s often hard to discuss this with those you work with for various reasons--confidentiality, office relations, etc. And finally, ministry sometimes becomes lonely.

Supervision has helped me with all of these difficulties. When I get together with my group, I can relay situations that have happened and get quiet time to reflect upon these times. I’m able to discuss it with people who will be vigilant in their confidentiality and most importantly, non-judgmental. We can discuss it as peers. In my case, it helps that they are also from large parishes as there is a certain understanding in how the operations in these churches work. And finally, it’s a great thing to be with people who, while they may not have the same situation, are in similar positions and can understand you on a different level. I know that when we get together, there will be time to talk, time to be quiet and time to pray.
I have greatly enjoyed this experience and would encourage everyone to take the time to do this for their ministry and themselves.

For more information regarding the process of pastoral supervision please contact Michelle Herberger, or to find out dates and locations of upcoming groups contact Linda McLemore, at 502-448-8581.

Resources for Catechetical Sunday

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As we prepare to celebrate Catechetical Sunday on September 20, you may find the following resources helpful. All of them are related to this year's theme of "Catechesis & the Proclamation of the Word" and focus on various uses of Scripture. All are available in the Archdiocesan Media Resource Center. The resource number and appropriate age level are listed for each one.

A Walk Through the New Testament: An Introduction for Catholics by Margaret Nutting Ralph
BK5009.1 Adult

This book is designed to be a companion for adult Catholics who want to read and better understand the New Testament.

Catholic Spirituality for Adults Series: Listening to God’s Word
by Alice Camille
BK4904.1 Adult

This book inspires us to not only appreciate God’s Word but to live it and know the peace and joy that comes from it.

Echoes of Faith Plus: The Scriptures
DVD0108.1 Adult

This DVD explores the central themes and message of the Bible and explains why it is considered the holy book of the Christian community.

Psalms for Young Children by Marie-Helene Delval
BK4827.1 Early – Primary

This collection of Psalms, paraphrased for young readers, uses simple yet powerful imagery to help children express their feelings.

Scripture: Nourished by the Word by Margaret Nutting Ralph
BK2160.1 Adult

This book presents the primary themes and basic concepts in Scripture, including covenant, kingdom, creation, salvation, and conversion. The Spanish edition of this book is also available.

The Bible Blueprint: A Catholic’s Guide to Understanding and Embracing God’s Word by Joe Paprocki
BK5003.1 Adult

This book cleverly uses a blueprint metaphor to help Catholics gain a solid understanding of the structure and organization of the Bible, and to help them build confidence in navigating its pages.

The Four Gospels: Catholic Personal Study Edition
by Little Rock Scripture Study
BK5011.1 Adult

This book lends itself to both quick reference and more in-depth study or meditation of Scripture.

The Revolutionary, Parts I and II
VC3159.1 and VC3232.1 High School – Adult

This two-part video shows how Jesus changed the world as none other before or since, and how his message is more compelling today than ever.

What is the Bible?
VC4043.1 Middle – Junior High

This video helps children appreciate and understand the Bible as God’s Word for their daily lives.

Women and the Bible
CD0160.1 Adult

This 12-part series presents women in the Bible who have always been central to the faith and who have played vital and often surprising roles.

Faith Formation: Something to Celebrate

2009-09-02T11:34:00.002-04:00

On August 27, 50-plus Parish Catechetical Leaders, along with the Faith Formation Cluster of the Office of Lifelong Formation & Education, gathered to share information, find support with one another and welcome the following new PCL’s through ritual and prayer:

Pat Kessinger – St. Rita

Sam Thomeczek – Cathedral of the Assumption

Agnes Kovacs – St. Patrick

J.J. Singer – Immaculate Conception, LaGrange

Marie Seaman, SFCC – St. Joseph, Bardstown

Darlene Fowler – St. Francis Xavier, Mount Washington

That following Saturday an additional 50-plus catechists gathered for our first “conference style” Saturday morning catechist formation. Here is what they had to say: “Continue Saturday mornings, this was great!”; “ I learned that I am not alone in my journey”; “ I wish I would have started this process years ago”.

Let us not forget all the fine efforts of all those involved in catechetical ministry at parishes and schools within the Archdiocese of Louisville. Yes, Faith Formation is truly something to celebrate!

Join us as we publicly acknowledge these efforts with Archbishop Kurtz at the Cathedral on the 22nd of September at 7PM. Email Linda at ALMI@archlou.org to register today and come ready to celebrate!

Feasts of Saint Monica & Saint Augustine

2009-08-26T14:05:00.003-04:00

This week we celebrate two great saints of the Church: Monica (August 27) and Augustine (August 28). Saint Monica (322?-387) was a devout Christian woman married to a pagan husband, Patricius, in Tagaste, North Africa. She was the loving mother of three children and a patient caregiver for a cantankerous mother-in-law. After years of Monica's heartfelt prayers, both her husband and mother-in-law eventually were baptized. Her eldest son, Augustine (354-430), lived an immoral life, fathered a child, and was an ardent supporter of the Manichean heresy before his conversion. Monica followed him when he travelled, tirelessly praying that he would repent, and lived to see her prayers realized when Augustine not only came to faith but soon thereafter became a priest and later a bishop. His prolific writings, especially his Confessions and many of his sermons, remain spiritual classics. One of his most quoted statements is: "You have made us for Yourself, O God, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You."

May we be as persistent in prayer as St. Monica and as passionate in our zeal for God as St. Augustine!

Marian Resources

2009-08-18T10:57:00.000-04:00

This week contains two great feasts of the Blessed Mother: the Assumption (August 15) and the Queeenship of Mary (August 22). To celebrate these days, we offer here a small sampling of the Marian resources available in the Media Resource Center. The resource number and appropriate age level are listed for each one.

Behold Your Mother: Priests Speak About Mary by Stephen Rosetti
BK4726.1 Adult

In this collection of inspiring reflections, ten esteemed priests share the role that the Blessed Mother has played in their personal spiritual lives.

Blessed Art Thou: Mother, Lady, Mystic, Queen by Rev. Richard Fragomeni and Br. Michael O'Neill McGrath
BK4523.1 Adult

Inspired by titles from the Litany of Loreto, one of the oldest prayers of the Catholic Church, these 20 images celebrate various loving and reverent names for Mary with a somewhat contemporary twist.

Catholic Spirituality for Adults Series: Mary by Kathy Coffey
BK4910.1 Adult

This book inspires us to see the mother of Jesus as our spiritual mother and as a model for women everywhere.

Mary, the Mother of Jesus by Tomie DePaola
BK4840.1 Early - Primary

Drawing upon scripture, legend and tradition, this children's book retells the story of Mary's life in fifteen beautifully illustrated segments.

Mother of God: A History of the Virgin Mary by Miri Rubin
BK4935.1 Adult

How did the Virgin Mary, about whom little is said in the Gospels, become one of the most powerful and complex religious figures in the world? This book investigates the ideas, practices and images that have developed around Mary from the earliest decades of Christianity to about 1600. Drawing on a variety of sources (including music, poetry, theology, art, scripture, and mriacle tales) this book reveals how Mary became embedded in our culture.

O Mother of God: Hymns to Mary by New Horizon Singers & Pacific "Pops" Orchestra
CD0040.1 Middle - Adult

A collection of fourteen hymns to Our Lady that includes both classical and contemporary selections, including three original compositions.

Picturing Mary
DVD0044.1 High School - Adult

This moving program takes viewers on an artistic journey spanning almost two thousand years and crossing four continents. Narrated by Jane Seymour with dramatic readings by James Keach, it includes English and Spanish versions.

Theology of Mary for the Third Millenium by Elizabeth Johnson, CSJ
CPO0125.1 Adult

Drawing from scripture, tradition and Vatican II, this audio tape describes Mary as God's friend and prophet.

Third Millenium: Vatican II (Part 08): Mary
VC1380.1 High School - Adult

In this video presentation, Elizabeth Johnson, CSJ of Catholic University leads viewers to a deeper appreciation of Mary as the first believer and model of faith.

Happy Feast of the Assumption!

2009-08-14T10:10:00.000-04:00

Previews of Coming Attractions

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Welcome to our blog! This site will be the future home of the Faith Formation blog of the Archdiocese of Louisville. Come and visit us as we enter the blogosphere! We will be under construction until August 15th. See you soon!

Peace and blessings,
The Faith Formation Team
Office of Lifelong Formation and Education
Archdiocese of Louisville