Growing in Faith, Growing Together: How the Oblate Academy is Shaping the Next Generation

In April 2020, during a time of unprecedented global uncertainty, a small but profound idea took root—a response to the challenges posed by a rapidly changing world. This idea, born from the desire to provide spiritual guidance and connection, blossomed into the Oblate Academy. What began as a modest initiative has evolved into a flourishing ministry that continues to inspire and nurture families across the nation. With unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith, the Academy has become a beacon of hope and spiritual enrichment, offering a sense of stability and community amidst the shifting tides of modern life.

The Oblate Academy was created with a clear and heartfelt mission: to help families maintain and deepen their connection to their Catholic faith. At a time when routines were disrupted and physical gatherings were limited, the Academy stepped in as a source of comfort and continuity. Its focus on young children, ranging from ages 3 to 10, reflects a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing faith from an early age. Through thoughtfully curated monthly collections, the Academy delivers spiritual lessons that are both engaging and accessible. Each collection is centered around a saint and a virtue, bringing these elements to life through colorful storytelling, interactive activities, heartfelt prayers, and practical ways for families to integrate faith into their daily lives.

The Academy’s approach emphasizes the joy and beauty of the Catholic faith. By presenting religious teachings in a way that resonates with young minds, the Academy fosters a genuine love for God and an eagerness to grow closer to Him. Parents, too, find value in the materials, as they provide a framework for guiding their children’s spiritual journey while strengthening their own roles as faith leaders within their households.

In its fifth year of operation, the Oblate Academy continues to expand its reach and offerings. Recognizing the importance of year-round spiritual growth, the Academy recently introduced a special summer edition. This new initiative ensures that children can remain connected to their faith even during the summer months, when school is out and routines often shift. The summer program has been met with enthusiasm by families seeking meaningful ways to keep Christ at the center of their children’s lives throughout the year. By encouraging consistent engagement with faith, the Academy helps families avoid spiritual stagnation during transitional times.

To better serve its ever-growing community, the Oblate Academy is undertaking another exciting development—a dedicated website designed to be a vibrant digital hub for families. This platform promises to enhance accessibility and engagement by offering a wide array of resources, including monthly lessons, faith-based activities, prayers, and educational content such as teachings about the Order of the Mass. Beyond its role as a resource library, the website will create opportunities for parents to connect, share experiences, and support one another in their vocation as the first teachers of faith. By fostering a sense of community among families, the Academy amplifies its impact and creates a supportive network for those committed to raising children in the Catholic tradition.

The growth of the Oblate Academy is a testament to its profound impact on the lives of children and families. Its outreach continues to expand, reaching more homes and more hearts with each passing year. The Academy’s programs gently guide children closer to God, planting seeds of faith that promise to flourish for generations. Every story read, every prayer whispered, and every activity completed serves as a step forward in a child’s spiritual journey. Parents, too, find joy and inspiration in witnessing their children embrace the faith with enthusiasm and sincerity.

The Missionary Oblates, who oversee and support the Academy, express deep gratitude for the opportunity to walk alongside families in this sacred endeavor. They recognize the significance of their role in shaping the spiritual lives of the next generation and remain dedicated to their mission of making faith accessible, joyful, and impactful. Through the Oblate Academy, the Oblates are not only nurturing individual growth but also strengthening the fabric of Catholic communities across the country. As the Oblate Academy looks to the future, its vision remains steadfast. It aspires to continue growing in scope and spirit, reaching more families and inspiring a deeper love for God in the hearts of children. With creativity, dedication, and faith, the Academy is shaping the next generation—helping children grow in faith, families grow together, and communities grow stronger.

Provided here are sample lesson plans from the Oblate Academy, designed to support and inspire effective teaching strategies. These plans offer a glimpse into the academy’s approach to education.