Domestic Seminary

Part IV — Post-Year 12: Adulthood in the Faith

This section addresses the transition to adulthood and the ongoing formation that continues throughout life. It focuses on supporting young adults as they leave home, discern vocations, and live out their Catholic faith in the world.

Chapters in This Part

• Chapter 17: When They Leave Home - Trust, Pray, Accompany
• Chapter 18: Supporting Vocations - Religious Life, Marriage, and Mission
• Chapter 19: The Faith Grows With You - Living Catholic Adulthood
• Chapter 20: A Catechism for Your Grandchildren

Overview

The transition to adulthood represents both an end and a beginning. While formal catechetical instruction may conclude, the journey of faith continues and deepens. This section addresses:

• Letting go: Supporting children as they become independent adults
• Vocational discernment: Helping young people discover their unique call
• Adult formation: Continuing to grow in faith throughout life
• Intergenerational transmission: Passing faith to future generations

Key Principles

1. Trust in God’s providence: Recognizing that formation continues beyond our direct influence
2. Accompaniment: Walking alongside young adults without controlling their journey
3. Lifelong learning: Understanding that faith formation never truly ends
4. Generational continuity: Ensuring the faith is passed to future generations

Transition Challenges

• Independence: Balancing guidance with respect for adult autonomy
• Secular environments: Supporting faith in college, work, and social settings
• Vocational uncertainty: Helping young people discern their path
• Cultural pressures: Navigating modern challenges to faith and values

Parental Role Evolution

• From teacher to mentor: Shifting from direct instruction to guidance
• From authority to companion: Walking alongside rather than leading
• From protector to supporter: Allowing risk-taking while providing safety
• From formator to witness: Living as an example of adult faith

Ongoing Formation

• Personal prayer: Deepening individual relationship with God
• Community involvement: Active participation in parish and Catholic organizations
• Intellectual growth: Continuing to study and learn about the faith
• Service and mission: Living out the call to evangelization and charity

Legacy Planning

• Documentation: Recording family faith traditions and practices
• Resource sharing: Creating materials for future generations
• Storytelling: Preserving family faith stories and testimonies
• Prayer networks: Establishing ongoing prayer support for family members