Benedict XVI, Pope Emeritus has announced a special Year of Faith to help Catholics appreciate the gift of faith, deepen their relationship with God and strengthen their commitment to sharing faith with others. This important year begins Oct. 11, 2012 – the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council as well as the 20th anniversary of the Catechism of the Catholic Church – and concludes Nov. 24, 2013 – the feast of Christ the King.

During this Year of Faith, it is his hope that Catholics turn back to Jesus and enter into a deeper relationship with Him through opening the “door of faith” (see Acts 14:27). The “door of faith” is opened at Baptism, but during this significant year Catholics are called to open it again and rediscover and renew their relationship with Christ and His Church.

"…They called the church together and reported what God had done with them

and how he had opened the door of faith..."(Acts 14:27).

On the Saturday, October 6, 2012, Dr. Denis McNamara spoke at the Cathedral about its architect, Edward Schulte; this was a part of the Cathedral's 150th anniversary year. Dr. McNamera describes several facets in detail of the style and purpose of Edward Schulte and the magnificent Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman. Dr. McNamera holds a PhD in Architectural History, frequently works with architects and pastors in church renovations and new designs, and wrote a book titled Catholic Church Architecture and the Spirit of the Liturgy.

One element of the Year of Faith is to recall the 50th Anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. The Council's teachings, which are called by Blessed Pope John Paul II a "sure compass by which to take our bearings in the century now beginning", must become more familiar to Catholics. This session, "Vatican Council II—A Sure Compass," looks at the years preceding the Council, reviews what the Council actually said, and examines how the Council had been interpreted over the last 50 years.

Another element of the Year of Faith is to understand evangelization and what is now known as "The New Evangelization." This session, using examples of theologians, saints and blesseds, explains both terms and their relevance for the Year of Faith.

for the Year of Faith

The aim of these small-group resources on the Creed is to help Catholics at all levels of faith formation to discover more fully the profound beauty and personal relevance of the Catechism.
Flyer including samples from books and bulletin inserts

In summary, the seven great qualities are:

1. In love with Jesus Christ

2. Ardour

3. Got to know the story of Israel

4. Know the culture

5. Love the Great Tradition

6. Missionary Heart

7. Knows and loves the new media can