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Explorers Adult Faith Formation Ministry
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The Explorers Ministry was created through the vision of Fr. Albert to provide a welcoming place for those who are curious about the Catholic faith. He recognized that many people come to St. Mark with questions about faith—whether they have never been baptized, have been away from the Church for many years, or were raised Catholic but never had the opportunity to truly explore and understand their faith as adults.
In many ways, Explorers serves as an extension to the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults). While OCIA offers the formal structure for those who have discerned a desire to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church or complete their Sacraments of Initiation, Explorers provides also a space for searching, learning, and asking questions.
The ministry welcomes people at every stage of the faith journey. Some participants may be encountering the Church for the first time. Others may be returning after years away, coming from another Christian tradition, seeking Confirmation, or simply desiring a deeper understanding of their Catholic faith. We have also seen some of them sponsoring candidates for the sacraments of initiation. Together, this diverse community learns, grows, and discerns the next step God may be calling each person to take.
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Mission and Purpose
The mission of the Explorers Ministry is to introduce people to Jesus Christ and help them develop a deeper, personal relationship with Him and His Church.
Through authentic Catholic teaching, prayer, fellowship, and open conversation, participants are invited to discover the beauty, wisdom, and truth of the Catholic faith.
Together, we explore:- Sacred Scripture
- Sacred Tradition
- Liturgy
- The teaching authority of the Magisterium
- The spiritual and intellectual treasures of the Catholic Church
Through this journey, participants gain a deeper understanding of God’s plan for humanity through the Catholic Church, the dignity and purpose of every person, and what it means to live as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
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Meetings & Activities
Explorers meets generally on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.
Each gathering provides a welcoming environment where participants can deepen their faith through:- Prayer and reflection
- Authentic Catholic teaching
- Open discussion and meaningful conversations
- Fellowship and community building
Throughout the year, Explorers also participates in parish events and offers special opportunities for formation, including guest speakers, seasonal studies, and other activities designed to enrich participants’ understanding of the Catholic faith and strengthen their connection to the St. Mark community.
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Who We Serve
Explorers is open to all parishioners ages 18 and older, regardless of where they are on their faith journey.
The ministry welcomes:- Those who are curious about the Catholic faith
- Those returning to the Church after time away
- Lifelong Catholics seeking a deeper understanding of their faith
- Individuals preparing to receive Sacraments.
As an adult faith formation ministry, Explorers serves those who are 18 and older. Parishioners under the age of 18 are invited to participate in St. Mark’s Youth Confirmation Program and other youth formation ministries.
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How to Join
Because every person’s faith journey is unique, new participants begin with a personal introduction with the ministry leaders to help ensure Explorers is the right fit for their current stage of spiritual growth.
If you are interested in learning more about Explorers, we invite you to fill out this Inquiryor reach out:- Father Albert at [email protected]
- Jessica Echeverry at [email protected]
We would love to meet you, answer your questions, and help you discover if Explorers is the right next step in your faith journey.
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