“At the heart of catechesis we find, in essence, a Person, the Person of Jesus of Nazareth, the only Son from the Father…who suffered and died for us and who now, after rising, is living with us forever.” To catechize is “to reveal in the Person of Christ the whole of God’s eternal design reaching fulfillment in that Person. It is to seek to understand the meaning of Christ’s actions and words and of the signs worked by him.” Catechesis aims at putting “people…in communion…with Jesus Christ: only he can lead us to the love of the Father in the Spirit and make us share in the life of the Holy Trinity. Catechism of the Catholic Church #426
SSJ Retreats
SSJ retreats meet parishioners where they are in their faith journey by providing multiple opportunities to grow in faith each year. Experienced Retreat Leaders share different dimensions of Catholic spirituality through talks, the Sacraments, small groups, and/or individual activities. Retreats are held off site at popular Retreat Centers allowing parishioners to enjoy social time (or alone time), meals, and a change of pace and scenery in fellowship with their parish family. Information on upcoming retreats will be posted here and the bulletin. For questions please contact ssj@ssj.org using the subject line “SSJ Retreats.”.
Formed
This online platform provides, at no cost to parishioners, Catholic programming for all ages, helping families and individuals to explore their faith anywhere and anytime. The site supports thousands of movies, programs, ebooks, audio books, parish programs and studies. Programs are accessed direct to browsers as well as mobile or connected devices. You may access the site (formed.org). Sign up by selecting the “Sign Up” button, then selecting “Sign up as a Parishioner” , then type in “Saints Simon & Jude Church, Huntington Beach” and finally your email address.
Faith Sharing / Scripture Discussion Groups
Faith Sharing and Scripture Discussion Groups help participants share personal insights and experiences so that they can apply the Gospel in their own lives. Various groups meet regularly to discuss scripture passages for upcoming weekend liturgies or to engage in bible study. These groups also provide opportunities to connect with others on a deeper level. Some groups meet throughout the year. Other groups meet only during Advent and/or Lent. Each group decides where and when gatherings are held. Individuals may either start their own group or join with an existing group. Please contact the parish office for more information.
Resource:
Bringing Home the Word from Franciscan Media. This monthly publication relates to the Sunday Gospel in our lives today. Click on the link below to download.
Centering Prayer
Saints Simon & Jude Church offers Centering Prayer as a means to find God in our lives to help bring our journey in close relationship with God. It helps us deepen our awareness of God, even in the midst of our active lives.
For more Centering Prayer information, please email ssj@ssj.org
Returning Catholics
This program is available for Catholics who are returning to the faith or seeking more information about the Catholic Church. Sessions are typically offered in Spring and Fall. Material is based upon Landings and themes include exploring God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, sacraments, liturgy, Catholic Life and prayer. Please contact the parish office for more information.
For information or questions about any of these programs, please contact the parish at ssj@ssj.org or (714) 962-3333.
