Religious Education

Adult Education - Lifelong Faith Formation

Our goal is to create an integrated multi-faceted program from preschool through adult to include family social time, mini-courses pertinent to ongoing learning and community building. The goal should truly incorporate LIFELONG – meaning all life stages – preschool through the elderly. Our desired outcome is for families to view church as an integral part of their lives, of their weekly activities and of families connected to other Catholic families. Contact: Ron and Pam Levonius - ronlevi@centurytel.net or call the Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

Adult Confirmation

If you are an adult who has not received the incredible graces and gifts of the Holy Spirit that are a part of the Sacrament of Confirmation, our monthly classes start every October with Confirmation by our Bishop the following April or May.The Sacrament of Confirmation completes the initiation process into the Catholic Church. Contact the Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

Baptismal Preparation Team

Baptism is the sacrament of mystical union with Christ, which creates a new society, the “glorious Church.” Holy Baptism holds the first place among the sacraments, because it is the door of the spiritual life. It is the sacrament of regeneration by water in the word by which we receive a new and spiritual life, the dignity of adoption as sons of God and heirs of God’s kingdom.

Baptismal Classes

Pope John Paul ll and IHM Church Baptismal classes are offered quarterly in January, April, July and October. When: The first Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Place: Lewis Street Catholic Education Center. Classes will be available English or Spanish Teams that will be working together are: English Chris and Darlene Gallegos  970-264-2611 Beth Rivas and Kathy Kulyk  Beth 970-749-6361 Spanish Acxel and Karina Monterroso  970-731-1216 Brenda Auli and Matilde Villalobos Brenda  1-210-788-0748  Matilde  970-233-8800 If you have any other questions please call the Parish Office at 970-731-5744.

Religious Education

Teaching Sessions with systematic curriculum specifically designed for children in grades 1-5. Sessions are held every Sunday 9:45-10:45 a.m. in the Parish Center. Volunteers are needed as teacher’s assistants, substitute teaching and preparation for breakfast snack. Contact: Carol Schneider - 970- 731-238-0207 for more information.

Legion of Mary

The Legion of Mary is a world-wide organization of Catholics, men and women, who offer their services to their pastor to aid him in performing spiritual works in the parish. This is done by placing themselves under the banner of Mary so that with her help they may develop greater holiness in their own lives as well as spread a deeper devotion to others. Its objectives are: (1) The personal sanctification of its members, who taking Mary as their model, endeavor to imitate her virtues, especially her faith, charity and humility. (2) To spread devotion to Mary, primarily by encouraging the recitation of the Rosary. (3) The performance of apostolic work under the direction of the Spritual Director, Father Malin of the parish unit of the Legion. Contact: Darlene Cassio - darcassio@cassiogroup.com or call the Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

Marriage Preparation Team

The Marriage Prep team believes strongly in the sacrament of matrimony. Strong marriages affect the entire church community. The team has a stake in the union of newly weds in the church. They have experienced the joys and struggles of married life and are willing to share their experiences and to let the engaged couples know that they are concerned about them. As marriage prep teams, we encourage couples to trust in each other in talking about topics that they may not bring up on their own. We share with them the importance of our Catholic faith community and encourage them to incorporate this in their own lives. Contact: Stuart and Marcella Sarnow - sgsarnow@gmail.com Contact: Chris and Darlene Gallegos  - darlenemgallegos@yahoo.com or call the Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

Men’s Fellowship and Bible Study

“Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ” according to St. Jerome. The Men’s Fellowship group at John Paul II seeks to learn more about Christ and our Catholic Faith by studying the Bible and our Catechism. Please join us at John Paul II Church on Monday nights for food and fellowship at 5:30 p.m. and videos and discussions at 6:00 p.m. Contact: Deacon Pat McKenzie - Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

The RCIA Catechists share faith experiences; reflect on Sunday scripture; facilitate sessions using Foundations in Faith (Catechist manuals, texts and workbooks provided). Preparation time 2-3 hours once every two months (December thru May) We need people of faith, warm, friendly, nonjudgmental; aware of the many ways that God works in and through people; a good listener; willing to grow in their own understanding and knowledge of Catholic teachings. Contact:  Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

RCIA Hospitality

RCIA Hospitality ministry hosts receptions for Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming (with cake and coffee after 8:00 a.m. mass); For Rite of Sending (with cake and coffee after 8:00 a.m. Mass); For Easter Vigil and buffet spread with cake and punch. The time commitment is two hours for rite and cake, four hours for Easter Vigil. We need people who have the ability to organize and host events (suggest a team effort). Contact: Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

RCIA Photography

Photography ministry involves taking photographs at each rite and of individuals for posting on Parish bulletin board. The time commitment is two hours for the first two rites and four hours for the Easter Vigil. The person should have the ability to take photos at all the rites. (Parish will pay for all film and developing).

RCIA Sponsors

RCIA Sponsors are Fellow Journeyers and have time and a commitment to be with the candidate from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon each Sunday; to be with him/her at all of the rites and to meet with him/her informally during the whole process. They need the ability to share faith; listen and guide the candidate throughout the process. Note: knowledge of theology not required. For All RCIA Programs contact: Parish Office (970) 731-5744.

Women’s Fellowship and Bible Study

Women’s Fellowship and Bible Study meets every Monday morning (October to May) from 9:00-11:00 a.m. in the JP II Narthex to study and reflect on the word of God. Contact: Susan Hampton - mrshampton49@gmail.com or call the Parish Office (970) 731-5744.