New ways of supporting families for faith in action

James Trewby

Columban JPIC Education, CAFOD and the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton are currently exploring how to support the development of 'faith in action' values in the home. They’ve decided to begin by listening to parents/grandparents/carers, learning from their experience and building up a list of ideas about what they did/do with their young people.

We all know that the family is a crucially important place for learning. And of course this is true of learning how to live our faith too – parents, grandparents and carers are the first educators and catechists.

But what can be done to support the development of 'faith in action' values in the home? How can families encourage children’s learning about the importance of peace, justice, charity and care for creation? What can be done to help young people realise their potential to participate, act and work for the Kingdom?

Columban JPIC Education, CAFOD and the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton are looking at these questions, and hope eventually to develop resources to support families.

There are three ways they’re inviting people to contribute:

1) Share with them at a listening event in the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton:

9th August (10 -12.30) at St Joseph's Parish, Guildford, beginning at 10am with tea and prayer. The rest of the morning will be spent listening to thoughts and experiences related to 'doing justice and peace in the home'. What worked (or didn't!) with your own children or grandchildren? Ideas so far have included doing the recycling together, talking with Big Issue vendors and choosing toys to donate to charities. How have you helped your family link faith to action?
Please let us know if you are coming by emailing James Trewby (education@columbans.co.uk)

2) Share with them at the NJPN conference 18-29 July.

3) Email thoughts to James (education@columbans.co.uk)