NEW YORK — This fall, St. Francis of Assisi Church on West 31st Street is helping more people understand the basics of the Catholic Church with its Catholicism 101 series.
The adult faith formation program is designed for those who question Catholic teachings. It is for people who have wondered, “Why do we do that at Mass?” It is also for those who are, at times, confused by Catholicism and for people of other faith traditions who want to know more about the Catholic religion.
The seven-session program, which begins on Sept. 24, studies the liturgical year. Using the axiom, “We celebrate what we believe,” the program will explore the structure, history and meaning of the most important celebrations and seasons of the church year.
The schedule includes:
• Sept. 24 – Introduction/What is a Liturgical Calendar?
• Oct. 1 – Sunday and the Pascal Mystery
• Oct. 15 – The Easter Cycle Part 1: The Triduum
• Oct. 22 – The Easter Cycle Part II: Lent and Pentecost
• Oct. 29 – The Christmas Cycle
• Nov. 5 – Ordinary Time and the Idea Feasts
• Nov. 19 – Feasts of Mary and the Saints
Participation is $20, with scholarships available.
“Catholicism 101” is just one of the many courses offered by the parish. Others include:
• Questions of the Heart, taught by Ronald Pecci, OFM, from Oct. 10 – 31
• Abandonment to Divine Providence, Robert Gavin, OFM, from Oct. 10 – Nov. 14
• Franciscan Spirituality of Creation, Stephen Mimnaugh, OFM, from Oct. 15 – Nov. 5
• Art and Spirituality, Miguel Loredo, OFM, Oct. 18 – Nov. 8
• A Pilgrim’s Journey: A Path to Spiritual Growth, Tony LoGalbo, OFM, Oct. 19 – Dec. 19
• Franciscan Beatitudes, Anthony Carrozzo, OFM, Oct. 30 – Nov. 27
For more information on dates and times, visit the church at 135 West 31st St. or call 212-736-8500, ext. 365. Brightly-colored brochures titled “Fall & Winter 2007 at the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi,” are available. The fee for most courses is $20. Director of the church’s adult education program is Kevin Tortorelli, OFM.
— Joseph Nuzzi is pastoral associate of St. Francis of Assisi Church.