Lifelong Christian Formation
And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We all are formed by your hand.
Isaiah 64:8 (NLT)
Our Mission
As we grow in our faith in God, we become participants in lifelong Christian formation. This is not a single class or event—not a checkmark or task to be accomplished–but an ongoing path that shapes, or forms, us as followers of Jesus Christ. In a lifelong journey of formation, we seek to engage people of all ages in relationship with Jesus; equip people with faith practices and learning; empower people to follow God’s calling in their lives; and encourage people by walking with them in their faith journeys. We are all called to be followers of Jesus Christ, at home, as individuals and in families, and in communities of faith all around the Diocese of New Jersey.
This ministry is supported by several Diocesan staff members, as well as the Lifelong Christian Formation Committee (LCFC), comprised of clergy and lay members from a variety of formation contexts throughout our diocese.
Why Faith Formation?
We use the word “formation” to describe how we are continually shaped or formed as disciples or followers of Jesus Christ. This is a lifelong journey! John Roberto notes that faith formation informs, forms, and transforms us so that we are able to fully participate in an abundant life in God. As Roberto says, “faith formation seeks to help people:
grow in their relationship with God for the whole of life;
live as disciples of Jesus at home, at work, in the community, and in the world;
develop an understanding of the Bible and their faith tradition;
deepen their spiritual life and practices;
engage in service and mission in the world; and
participate in the life and ministries of their faith community.”
Source: John Roberto, Generations Together
Who We Resource
Formation ministry occurs in many different contexts. Some are looking for faith-at-home resources for use by individuals (including themselves!), families, or small groups. Others may be looking for specific curriculums or program ideas for congregational ministry settings. Others may be simply. . . looking. Whatever you are looking for, take a look around our site to see what formation ministry can look like!