Christian Formation

is more than an intellectual process; it is a spiritual and emotional process that allows us to live out our lives according to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior.

The Diocese of Southwest Florida defines Christian Formation as a lifelong process of living into our baptismal covenant and promises. This includes, but is not limited to, Christian Education. As children of God, we are called into a relationship with God and called to discern our ministries.  Through this process, we are formed over our whole lifetime.  Education is not enough to help us grow and mature into vibrant Christians. It is one thing to learn about or talk about God, but that knowledge about God must be nurtured and mentored into a relationship with God. Our spiritual lives are supported by Christian education, and by an enriched parish life/fellowship. We are nurtured by prayer, worship, scripture, spiritual direction, and the sacraments. We worship, fellowship and learn within the parish but we live out our Christian lives in the world. It is a lifelong journey to be Christ to the world and to bring the love of God to friend and stranger.

Education is indeed not enough! Christian Formation empowers us to go into the world and be present for God in word and in deed. Christian Formation needs to be an integral part of our lives that informs the way we live.  It also needs to influence how we see and experience the world; how we use our resources and how we respect and safeguard the world God has given us.

It is our desire at St. James House of Prayer to provide that life long relationship with God and our community of faith through prayer and study.   This will nurture and enrich our lives and allow us to be God's heart, hands, feet and eyes in the world.