Coordinator of catechesis a familiar face at Saint Bridget University Parish

For Stephanie Grossman, her latest role as a catechist has brought her back to the same community that first cultivated her own faith.

Grossman now serves as coordinator of Whole Family Catechesis for Saint Bridget University Parish, Glassboro – where she attended the parish school from the first through eighth grades, and where she received her sacraments and was married.

After volunteering for religious education programs for most of her adult years, Grossman took on the role of coordinator of religious education at Mary, Mother of Mercy Parish, Glassboro, where she worked for 10 years.

Now, the Pitman resident is back at her childhood parish of Saint Bridget.

“All summer, I have been developing, organizing and planning the year,” she said.

Grossman, who has four sons with her husband of 29 years, said that the parish will be using the Whole Family Catechesis program.

“Parents are the first and most important teachers of faith for their children,” she said. “I’m here to have families connect with one another and have opportunities for these families to slow down, pause and pray.”

Grossman said their program will include meetings once each month, and families will be invited to attend class together. In addition to classes and homework, families will also be invited to attend at least a half dozen events throughout the year.

“I love meeting the kids and families, [and] class days are always my favorite days,” she said.

She shared her appreciation to step into her latest role as a parish catechist, and her excitement to work closely with parish pastor, Father John Rossi, and the parochial vicar, Father Thomas Piro.

“I know this will be a great year,” she said.

Grossman encourages other Catholics to consider getting involved in faith formation and catechesis in their own parish communities.

“It is so exciting to watch the students as they grow in their faith each year,” she said. “When they learn a prayer or receive a sacrament, and I see the look on their face, how happy they are, it makes me feel so proud.”