Saint Joseph, Fredonia
Contact: Patricia Marshall
Priority: Small church groups
Purpose: Deepen parishioner appreciation for the Eucharist. Capitalize on the quality of parish liturgies in outreach to young people and those who are not participating in faith formation programs.
Method: Implement a "Living the Eucharist" small groups program.
Priority: Small church groups
Purpose: Deepen parishioner appreciation for the Eucharist. Capitalize on the quality of parish liturgies in outreach to young people and those who are not participating in faith formation programs.
Method: Implement a "Living the Eucharist" small groups program.
April 2012
In evaluating the Living the Eucharist program, participants at St. Joseph, Fredonia indicated that sharing with others and discussing God's role in their lives were among the most appreciated aspects of the time together. Some indicated benefiting from reading and reflecting on the scriptures ahead of Mass each week. Others indicated that Living the Eucharist provided an opportunity to "prepare my mind and heart" each day.
Most participants reported an excellent experience in the small groups. Participants reported having greater understanding and participation level in the Eucharist, and a significant increase in their commitment to be disciples of Jesus each day.
This program is like most others in that it benefits from coordinated scheduling, supportive prayers and a publicity plan that is implemented well in advance of the starting date. A comfortable location that is accessible to all who are interested and effective facilitation of the conversation are necessary ingredients for success.
Some participants were uneasy with the meditation aspects of the Lectio Divina approach. At least one group adapted the format and shared some interpretation about each scripture passage before inviting participants to discuss it or share their faith.
At St. Joseph Parish the small group meetings were enhanced with a preceding formation opportunity for liturgical ministers and an Easter season retreat which combined with small group reflection & sharing, individual devotional prayer, parish prayer program, and family centered prayer experiences which lead to a fuller participation in the Eucharist and the mission of the Church to "Go out and spread the Good News!"
Most participants reported an excellent experience in the small groups. Participants reported having greater understanding and participation level in the Eucharist, and a significant increase in their commitment to be disciples of Jesus each day.
This program is like most others in that it benefits from coordinated scheduling, supportive prayers and a publicity plan that is implemented well in advance of the starting date. A comfortable location that is accessible to all who are interested and effective facilitation of the conversation are necessary ingredients for success.
Some participants were uneasy with the meditation aspects of the Lectio Divina approach. At least one group adapted the format and shared some interpretation about each scripture passage before inviting participants to discuss it or share their faith.
At St. Joseph Parish the small group meetings were enhanced with a preceding formation opportunity for liturgical ministers and an Easter season retreat which combined with small group reflection & sharing, individual devotional prayer, parish prayer program, and family centered prayer experiences which lead to a fuller participation in the Eucharist and the mission of the Church to "Go out and spread the Good News!"
