Ministries within the Education and Faith Formation Commission focus on providing opportunities for individuals to grow in their relationship with God and to further their knowledge of their Catholic faith. Included are descriptions of Nativity’s school (Pre-K – 8) and formal preparation programs for adults and youth planning to receive initial sacraments. Also provided are enrichment programs to further all parishioners’ appreciation and understanding of their faith.
Adult Education Programs. We offer Adult Education programs which explore Catholic Teaching, sacramental life, and various issues which affect our lives as Christians. We invite in speakers who are active in various ministries and who offer a level of expertise that enhances our understanding of the issues and provides us with the means and methods of advocacy to hopefully make a difference in our world. Please contact Kathy Fonte at 632-8838 ext. 9 with questions and suggestions.
Adult Sacrament Preparation. See RCIA.
Baptism Preparation. Pre-Baptism classes are offered for parents expecting their first child. Information is given on the rite of Baptism, the history and theology of the sacrament, and parental responsibilities. Contact Norbert Wrobel at 716-633-9999.
Catholic Scripture Study*. The Catholic Scripture Study program is a Steubenville University program that strives for Bible literacy for all Catholics. Participants nationwide use standardized study materials, focusing on a particular book of the Bible. The material is supplemented with on-line information and enhanced by local discussion groups. Nativity’s group meets every other Wednesday in the school library. Contact Dave Schabel at 716-741-6940.
Confirmation. See Religious Education.
First Eucharist. See Religious Education.
First Reconciliation. See Religious Education.
G.I.F.T. Growing in Faith & Tradition. Nativity's family life ministry strives to support and enrich families through spiritual and social events. Evenings of faith and fun provide the direction to strengthen the Christian environment in the family while creating bonds of friendship. Contact Jack and Debby Marsherall at 716-634-4820 or Tom and Cathy Friedman at 716-688-6458.
Marriage Preparation. Couples planning to be married at Nativity must attend a Pre-Cana program. Couples may choose from a parish-based “Couple to Couple” program or the diocesan-run Journey into Love program. at the St. Columban Retreat Center. Both programs are run by married couples and offer insights into the Church teachings on the sacrament, along with all aspects of married life. For the Couple to Couple program contact Tom and Jean Noonan at 716-632-5026. For diocesan programs go to www.buffalodiocese.org. All engaged couples begin their marriage preparation with a scheduled meeting with one of our parish priests.
Mission Renewal*. Participants in Mission embark on a week-long Lenten retreat. A series of nightly events are designed to deepen and enrich their faith and strengthen their sense of belonging to their Parish community. Contact Tom and Cathy Friedman at 716-688-6458.
Nativity School (Pre-K – 8). Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary School dedicates itself to education in the Catholic tradition, which places emphasis upon moral and spiritual formation and seeks excellence in academics, personal development, the building of the spirit of the community, and service to others.
Pre-Cana. See Marriage Preparation.
RCIA. The RCIA process (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) prepares adults to become members of the Catholic Church. The process provides instruction on Catholic doctrine, liturgical practices and sacramental life. Adults receive the sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, Communion and Confirmation as needed at the Easter Vigil. Contact Msgr. Fred Leising or Fr. John Leising at 716-632-8838.
Religious Education. Nativity’s Religious Education department offers a formal, classroom-based curriculum for teaching the Catholic faith to students in grades 1 through 11. The program includes sacrament preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation. Qualified adults are welcome to volunteer as Catechists. See Religious Education or call 716-634-3130.
Vacation Bible School. Nativity’s Vacation Bible School is a 1-week summer program that teaches Christian concepts in a relaxed setting. Children entering grades K through 4 participate in daily prayer, scripture readings, craft projects, musical games and outdoor play, all centering around a Biblical theme. Adults and teens are welcome to volunteer to help organize or teach. Click here for more information
Youth Ministry/Teens. The Youth Ministry department offers spiritual, social & service events throughout the year that focus on helping youth of all ages grow closer to God in non-classroom settings. The EDGE program is offered to 7th and 8th graders and S3 (S-cubed) is available to high school age students. Qualified adult volunteers are always welcome. See Religious Education or call 716-634-3130.