In Lumen Fidei, Pope Francis makes it clear that what the Church is handing on is not solely a doctrinal content for which a book or the repetition of an idea might suffice. Rather, it is about “the new light born of an encounter with the true God, a light which touches us at the core of our being and engages our minds, wills, and emotions, opening us to relationships lived in communion.”
Over the last several months, just about everything has changed. As we plan for a “new normal” we need to be deeply embedded in our mission as a Church and in Gospel values. Those who wish to attend a session online, individually or within a group,can reach out to me (Fr. Bob) so I can assist you. The following opportunities can also be used as a basis for private individual study, family study time, or group study/discussions with your neighbors.
To participate in all or just one of these opportunities, please contact either the St. Francis de Sales parish office or St. Philip's parish office (899-3601) or email Fr. Bob Farrell (rfarrell@stphilipmorrow.org) You can leave a message indicating what course and session you wish to attend. Please know parishioners at both parishes are welcome at any offering. More details about room location and course materials will be sent to you.
If you or not comfortable coming to a live session or if we are unable to have live sessions, do not let that deter you. Gather your family and neighbors and watch videos at home and then join others for a “Zoom” session each week to share insights and deepen your knowledge. Details of how to connect with these sessions will be given to you.
I look forward to growing in my faith with you and deepening our relationship with the Lord and each other.
Fr. Bob Farrell
All of us are called to be holy. It is our greatest calling and what is desired for us by our Creator. Bp. Barron, in 7 weeks, paints a beautiful image of what it takes to be a holy follower of Jesus Christ. He lays out three approaches to holiness: finding the center, realizing that you are a sinner and recognizing that your life is not about you. Join Fr. Bob and fellow parishioners on this path to holiness. Cost of materials is $15.00. For our Hispanic brothers and sisters, if you would like to organize a session in Spanish, please contact Fr. Bob.
Dates: Wednesdays from August 4 – Sept. 15
St Francis de Sales: 10 – 11:30 am
St. Philip: 7 – 8:30 pm
(Both locations offer the same sessions, just at different times).
...a three-week “on-ramp” into the Bible.
It acquaints interested and curious adults with the general makeup of the Bible and the Catholic approach. The hope is you will get excited and on fire with the Word of God that you would participate in deeper studies. There are 3 sessions focusing on Old Testament, New Testament, and particular ways that Catholics interact with the Bible. There is no cost to this overview.
Dates:
St. Philip: Tuesdays Aug. 17,24,31 from 10 – 11:30 am
St Francis de Sales: Thursdays Aug. 19,26, Sept 2 from 7 – 8:30 pm
(Both locations offer the same sessions, just at different times).
Do you find it easy to pray? Is prayer an integral part of your day? Do you hear God’s voice in your daily life and know how to respond accordingly? In this series, Fr. Mark Toups guides us through the simple, yet profound steps to an effective and fruitful prayer life. Following the Tradition of the Church and the wisdom of the saints, you will learn how to express yourself to God in prayer and how to hear His voice. Join Fr. Bob, as he leads this 8-week program. Cost of materials is $15.00.
Dates:
St. Philip: Tuesdays Sept. 21 – Nov. 16 (skip Nov. 2) from 10 – 11:30 am
St Francis de Sale: Thursdays Sept. 23 – Nov. 11 from 7 – 8:30 pm
(Both locations offer the same sessions, just at different times).