Each year we put on a series of monthly talks to further assist in the faith formation of adults within the parish. A stated aim of the programme is that the talks will help all those participating to nourish and protect their faith. Indeed this is something which the Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us is a requirement flowing out of the first commandment[1]. Whilst the development of the faith within young people, whether infants, children or adolescents is often accepted and expected, the importance for adults should not be forgotten. The late Pope, Blessed John Paul II referred to adult faith formation as "the principal form of catechesis, because it is addressed to persons who have the greatest responsibilities" and went on to state that the faith of adults too "should continually be enlightened, stimulated and renewed"[2]. In his Pastoral Plan for the Diocese of Portsmouth, Bishop Crispian Hollis encourages parishes "to continue to explore methods of formation in faith" reminding us that formation in faith is "for all of us, at every stage in our lives, whether we are lay, religious or ordained"[3].

A full programme has been scheduled for 2012 with a winter and summer break in January and August respectively. Each talk is scheduled for one hour, with an additional 30 minutes maximum being allowed for questions. The provisional dates of talks for this year are February 9, March 22, April 17, May 17, June 14, July 5, September 13, October 11, November 15, and December 6. All talks commence at 7:30pm and will be held at Catholic Pastoral Services, next to St. Thomas church in Val Plaisant. Should there be any amendments there will be notification given in the weekly newsletter of the Catholic Church in Jersey and on the website (www.catholicchurch.org.je). Full details of forthcoming talks will be in the newsletter and published in the "About" section of the website (Up and Coming events) at least two weeks prior to the scheduled date. Should you require further details please contact Catholic Pastoral Services (T: 732583 or

E:cps@catholicchurch.org.je).