One of the most important tasks of the adults of the Church is to pass on the knowledge and gift of the faith to those around us, especially to children. At Good Shepherd we focus on the importance of celebrating the Eucharist and making the Mass a priority. Our faith formation program for our children and teens all begin with Mass followed by class. Participation in the Mass and reception of the Eucharist, draws us closer as a community, strengthens our faith and our relationship with God.   

For those who are seeking full communion with the Church, we offer the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, commonly known as R.C.I.A.

Visit each webpage to learn more about the programs the parish offers.  

Registration and information for the upcoming faith formation year 2022 - 2023, will be emailed to currently registered families the week of May 22nd.

Please note there will be two distinct registration forms for children in grades 1 through 8 and teens entering the two-year Confirmation program. Teens only need to register as ninth graders. 

All faith formation classes will begin with family attendance at Mass followed by class for the children/teens. Mass participation with class attendance is critical to faith formation and is a requirement.

For grades 1-8, families may attend either the Sunday, 8:30am or 10:30am Mass followed by class. Confirmation students and their families will attend Sunday, 10:30am Mass followed by class. The emphasis will be on the importance of the Mass and the great gift that God gives us in the Eucharist.

If you are new to the parish, please contact the parish secretary, Mary McGuinness, at 973-786-6631 to register. Upon completion of parish registration and meeting with our pastor, Fr. Tim Dowling, you will be emailed the faith formation registration form.
 
Please submit registration form and baptismal certificate if required, with payment to the Faith Formation office by June 30th.


LOCAL YOUTH PROTECTION AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT

The Diocese of Paterson has required all parishes to ensure all adults in regular contact with children and teens are in compliance with the USCCB Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. Those adults in regular contact with minors are required to submit to a criminal background check, attend Virtus training and read/sign the Code of Pastoral Conduct.

The Youth Protection and Safe Environment Coordinator for the parish is the Faith Formation  Coordinator Phyllis Haarmann. Contact information is listed below.