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 2025 - 2026, will be emailed to currently registered families the week of June 19th.
Please note there are two distinct registration forms for children in grades 1 through 6 and teens (grades 7 - 8) entering the two-year Confirmation program. Teens only need to register in the first year. Please visit the page for specific program detail by clicking on the title on the left.
SInce the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith, the Mass is a critical and necessary component of our faith formation program. The emphasis for both the elementary and Confirmation programs will be on the importance of the Mass and the great gift that God gives us in the Eucharist. Students are required to attend weekly Mass.
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 July 15th.
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.