Adult Education

Join Deacon Steve on a study crafted to teach about those who led the Church’s rebirth from the ashes of confusion caused by the Protestant Reformation. Over six weeks, you will learn about the true benefactors of the human race, the saints. The Saints of the Reformation show us just how powerful, and beautiful, is the human hearts free response to God’s generous grace. There are two options to meet: Mondays at 10 a.m. (October 10 – November 14) or Thursdays at 4 p.m. (October 13 – November 17). If you would like to join either one of these sessions, sign up using the link below or call the office at 815-248-2490. You can call the office or talk to Deacon Steve with any questions you may have.

Scripture says, “Be sober and alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, solid in your faith.” In other words, the Christian life involves spiritual combat. But a lot of Catholics aren’t really familiar with this idea. We will watch three Chris Stefanick interviews with Fr. Chad Ripperger, an exorcist priest and have a discussion after each one. Obviously, Fr. Ripperger’s on the front lines of some intense spiritual warfare, but it’s taught him a lot that everyday Catholics like you and me can use to fight in our own struggles. I know exorcism is a serious topic, but don’t worry. This is not a scary episode. You’ll be amazed by Fr. Ripperger’s stories of God’s power and providence, and how not even the demons can thwart God’s plan for us. You’ll learn about the five levels of spiritual combat and a powerful prayer to combat temptations in the name of Jesus, along with how staying positive and focusing on the good helps our everyday spiritual lives. The meetings will be held on Wednesday, October 12, 26 and November 9 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at St. Mary. If you would like to join the discussion, you may sign up using the link below or call the office at 815-248-2490, by Monday, October 3^rd.

Plan to attend the popular Advent scripture series with John McGrath. The theme of this year’s presentation is “The Gospel of Matthew: Wisdom for the Church in Uncertain Times.”

All sessions are held on the first three Sundays of Advent: November 27, December 4 & 11. All sessions run from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and are held in Fellowship Hall at St. Peter’s Cathedral, 1243 N. Church Street, Rockford. The cost is $10 for all three sessions or $5 for one session. For more information, please call Deacon Bob Mitchison at 815/633-0213.

We're pleased to announce the availability of FORMED, an online service for accessing thousands of Catholic videos, audios and ebooks On Demand anytime, anywhere! As a member, you will have access to entertaining movies, inspiring audio talks, informative bible studies, and much more. We are providing this resource free of charge to help our members learn and grow in their faith. You will also be able to easily access any featured content the we are promoting within our community from time to time. So please join us. Your participation is crucial not only as a member of the parish but as a leader of the parish!

Also once you have signed up, don’t forget to download the free iOS or Android app to put FORMED at your fingertips.

We hope you will enjoy this incredible gift and please spread the word to others.

To sign in for FREE, visit https://stmarystpatrick.formed.org. Search for "St. Mary Durand".