Christian Family Formation
Evening for the Engaged
A marriage preparation program led by married couples and designed to provide engaged couples with good communication skills and an appreciation for the Sacrament of Matrimony. Brian and Elise Miller, 602-938-3562.
Marriage Encounter
This is a weekend for any married couple that desires a richer, fuller life together, whether they have been married for only a short time or for many years. Priests and other religious are welcome to attend. The weekend is not a retreat, marriage clinic, group sensitivity, or a substitute for counseling. It’s a unique approach aimed at revitalizing good marriages. The weekend starts at 8:00 p.m. on Friday night and runs until about 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, and is held at an area hotel with meals provided. There are also Marriage Encounter Core Groups that offer volunteer opportunities to support marriage in our community. These groups meet regularly to encourage friends or family to attend a weekend, as well as pray for and support those going on a weekend. Margie and Gerald Kesler, 602-944-5132.
Marriage Preparation
“The two shall become one. They are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, let no man separate what God has joined” (Mark 10:7-9). In an effort to assure that our Catholic Christian marriages are built on the best commitment possible, we offer a comprehensive process during a six-month period of preparation. This includes: regular meetings with their priest, a premarital inventory, Evenings for the Engaged, an introduction to Natural Family Planning, and preparation for the wedding ceremony. Sr. Dympna Doran, ext. 121
Retrouvaille
Retrouvaille is a Christian program designed to provide help and support to married couples who are undergoing difficulties in their relationship. It can also be helpful to couples who are separated or divorced. There are no group discussions. Retrouvaille programs are offered in Phoenix and nationally. More information is available at www.retrouvaille.org. or call 602-254-6723.
Natural Family Planning
Family planning is a method of planning for a family that is in keeping with Catholic teaching concerning the gift of fertility, marriage and responsible parenthood. Peggy Frei, 602-225-0636
First Way
Our mission is to provide education and assistance to any teen or woman who is pregnant or thinks she may be with child. This is accomplished through free, loving and non-judgmental provision of information, counseling, and practical services. We depend on volunteers to assist our clients, who now number over 200 monthly. Free pregnancy tests, clothing for children up to two years old, maternity wear and ultrasounds are some of the services we offer. If you can spare even four hours weekly, we will welcome you and God will reward you. Our motto is “to serve.” Jane Schmidt, 602-249-1088
D.A.D.S
The Ss. Simon & Jude Dads’ Club is dedicated to building community among the school dads. The Dads’ Club support school functions and makes sure interested dads are aware of volunteer opportunities around the school. You’ll find Dads’ Club members barbequing during summer baseball, running the Parish Golf Tournament and lending a hand wherever someone neeeds help. We meet the second Tuesday of every month and always welcome new members. Jim Peterson- 602-944-3280.
SSJ Active Families
Are you interested in meeting new people? Do you want to be part of a group that provides Christian Fellowship, service opportunities, and fun activities for the whole family? Then SSJ Active Families is the group for you! This is our 7th year of great activities ranging from play groups, potlucks, camping trips, home Masses, Adopt-AFamily service projects, couples’ night out, hiking trips, and much more. Patsy Herman, 623-463-3319 Nancy Klein, 602-395-3996
Families ReMembering
This special program assists families who have been away from the Church and who would like to return. It catechizes the whole family and prepares members to receive the Sacraments and become active parish members. Meetings in English are on Wednesdays, 6:45 - 8:15 p.m., and in Spanish on Thursdays, 6:45 - 8:15 p.m. Sr. Loreto Downing, 602-433-7610