Welcome

The Archdiocese of Santa Fe reminds us that the Sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation are not only sacred steps for the candidates—they are a faith journey for parents, guardians, and sponsors as well! Parents, guardians, and sponsors are required to attend parish programs or classes and are encouraged to join candidates in special sessions. 

Here at Santa Maria de la Paz, we make this easy and enriching through our Adult Religious Education program—an opportunity to grow in faith together as we guide our young people toward the fullness of the Spirit. Participation in one of these ARE program units is a requirement for all parents, guardians, and sponsors. 

UNIT ONE—Theology of the Body begins on Tuesday, September 23rd.  All sessions are held at the Msgr. Jerome Parish Hall at 6:00PM.

Attend a “Crash Course” in Saint Pope John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body” Tuesday nights from Sept. 23 through Oct. 28. In this age of pornography, transgenderism, abortion, promiscuity and plastic surgery, let’s refer to Pope St. John Paul II’s profound teaching, delivered between 1979 and 1984, in a series of weekly audiences that eventually became known as the Theology of the Body.  Find answers to the questions: What does it mean to be human? Why does my body matter? What was I made for?

The Theology of the Body speaks to all ages, and all vocations, single and married Catholics.  

The six-week course includes: 

Video lectures by Fr. Mike Schmitz, best known for his Bible in a Year podcast

Study guides and group discussions

Recorded lectures by “The Theology of the Body for Beginners” author Christopher West

UNIT TWO: The Eucharist & the Holy Mass

Join us as we continue our Adult Religious Education series with a focus on the source and summit of our faith—the Eucharist. Each session will deepen our understanding of Christ’s Real Presence and the meaning of the Holy Mass.

Nov. 4 – Bread of Life Discourse 

Explore Jesus’ powerful teachings where He reveals Himself as the Bread of Life, inviting us to believe in His Real Presence in the Eucharist.

Nov. 18 – Last Supper & the Cross 

See how the Last Supper is inseparably linked to Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary, showing us the Eucharist as both meal and sacrifice.

Dec. 2 – The Mass: Emmaus & the Mystery of the Eucharist 

Discover how the story of the Road to Emmaus illuminates the structure of the Mass and the mystery of Christ made known to us in the breaking of the bread.

Dec. 9 – Teaching Mass

Experience the Mass in a new way as we walk step by step through its prayers, symbols, and rituals, uncovering their biblical roots and spiritual significance.

Our October/November food donation drive is currently underway. Your generosity helps ensure that families who are struggling will have nourishing meals and know that they are not alone during this season of gratitude and giving. Paper sacks with a list of suggested food items are available in the Gathering Space. Thank you for your continued support!

continues, providing warm coats to children in need as the cold weather approaches. This act of charity brings both comfort and hope to families in our community.

Please consider donating a new coat in any size—especially in larger youth and adult sizes, which are often needed for older children and teens. Last year, we received an abundance of small coats but were short on larger ones, and many teens wear adult sizes.

Donations may be placed in the collection box located in the Gathering Space. Prefer to make a monetary contribution instead? You may drop off a donation—marked K of C Coats for Kids—at the Parish Office. Your generosity helps ensure every child stays warm this winter!