Christian Formation is a lifelong process the purpose of which is to support the people of God as they seek to live out the Baptismal Covenant and to express their unique calling as followers of Jesus Christ. One of the greatest challenges for the leadership of the Church is the empowerment of all Christians through both formal and informal learning opportunities and experiences. It is the responsibility of the leadership in each congregation to establish and to develop an environment which enables people to discover themselves as God’s people and to carry out the ministries to which they are called. It is through this vision and leadership that the whole congregation comes to feel its responsibility for community and total ministry within the life of the Church.

The office of the Canon for Formation can assist you with Christian Formation questions and program planning.

Formation Re-Gathering Guidelines

Many of us are desiring opportunities to connect with members of our congregations and worshipping communities and are wondering how we can engage in Christian Formation events safely. Here is information drafted by the Christian Formation Sub-Committee of the Diocesan Re-Gathering Panel on this topic. I would like to express my gratitude to Canon Lynn Farlin, Diocesan Canon for Formation, Vicky Koch of St. Paul's in Norfolk, and Jacqueline Beardsley of Christ & St. Luke's in Norfolk for their work in drafting these guidelines. Should you have any questions please contact Canon Farlin at the Diocesan Office. With every blessing, Bishop Susan

Resources for virtual formation and worship at home

Click here for numerous resources for formation leaders and families for worship and Christian formation at home, including seasonal resources for Advent, Christmas, Pentecost and more.

Colleague Groups

Would you be interested in forming a colleague group in your area of the Diocese? The Norfolk Formation Colleague Group has been a much-needed thing during this time. We are a group who supports one another 100% and shares our challenges and love of ministry. If you would be interested in forming a group, contact CE-Net Co-Chairs, Vicky Koch, vkoch@stpaulsnorfolk.org or Gizelle Moran, gizelle@trinity-portsmouth.org and we’ll help you get started.

CE-Net: Christian Educators Network

We are educators, laity and clergy, volunteer and professional, who work with Christian Formation in parishes around our diocese. CE-Net is committed to life-long, transformational Christian Education through leading, serving, pastoring and developing partnerships in the name of Christ. CE-Net meets five or six times a year for support and sharing. Upcoming gatherings are listed here. 

For more information on CE-Net contact:
Vicky Koch, vkoch@stpaulsnorfolk.org, 757-627-4353, ext. 23
Gizelle Moran, gizelle@trinity-portsmouth.org, 757-393-0431

Advent Resources - A list of resources for Formation leaders and families from Pastor Traci Smith's presentation to CE-Net in October 2020.