adult formation
BUILDING A CULTURE OF DISCIPLESHIP
Forming Catholics in the Diocese of Middlesbrough into confident, missionary disciples, grounded in sacramental life, growing in faith, and actively living the Gospel in their families, workplaces, and communities.
“The lay faithful are called to rediscover and to live the Gospel message in the ordinary circumstances of daily life. They are called by God so that they may contribute to the sanctification of the world, as from within like leaven, by fulfilling their own particular duties.” Christifideles Laici 23
Tomb to Mission
This Easter season we are invited to take a journey together.
Easter is not just one day. For fifty days the Church celebrates the victory of Christ and asks a deeper question: What does the Resurrection mean for our lives today?
Over the coming weeks we will walk through five stages of the Easter story — a journey every Christian is called to live.
Tomb
The journey begins at the empty tomb. The Resurrection is the foundation of our faith. Christ is alive, and hope is stronger than sin and death.
Encounter
Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we meet the risen Lord in Scripture, in the Eucharist, and in the people we walk with each day.
Discipleship
Hearing the voice of the Good Shepherd, we learn to follow Christ more closely — growing in prayer, trust, and love.
Mission
The risen Jesus sends his disciples into the world: “Go and make disciples.” Easter faith is never kept to ourselves; it becomes good news for others.
Empowered
At Pentecost the Holy Spirit fills the Church with courage and joy. The same Spirit empowers us today to live and share the Gospel.
Gospel Reflections
Tomb to Mission Sunday Gospel Reflections Easter
Tomb to Mission Sunday Gospel Reflections Divine Mercy
Tomb to Mission Sunday Gospel Reflections Week 3
Tomb to Mission Sunday Gospel Reflections Week 4
Tomb to Mission Sunday Gospel Reflections Week 5
Tomb to Mission Sunday Gospel Reflections Week 6
Tomb to Mission Sunday Gospel Reflections Week 7
Mission Challenge
Prayer Prompts
Adult Formation Podcast
All previous episodes can be found here.
Events
Articles
From Tomb to Mission
Easter is not the end of the story, it is the beginning. After the long days of Lent and the profound celebrations of Holy Week, it can be tempting to think that life has simply returned to normal. But this is not the case. The Church now invites us into fifty days of c…
The Rain That Brings New Life
Have you spotted any signs of spring yet?
I am waiting patiently for my bulbs to bloom. I’m not an avid gardener, though I hope to be one day, but even I find myself looking for those first hints of new life. As winter slowly fades and Lent draws near with its call to…
Growing as a Disciple in 2026
At the beginning of a new year, I always find myself in a reflective mood. I like to review the year that has gone, the highs and lows, and ask myself what I learnt about others, myself, and God. Just as the first disciples heard the call of Jesus during an ordinary…
Baptism Birthday Celebrations
As a parent, I’m always looking for ways to bring faith more deeply into our home — to make it something my children love and enjoy celebrating. Over the years, I’ve discovered that faith doesn’t have to stay confined to Sunday Mass; it can be woven into our everyday…
An Advent of Hope
I love Advent. The streets fill with twinkling lights, and festive music plays everywhere you go. It feels like the one liturgical season the whole nation celebrates—whether they realise it or not. Yet Advent also holds a gentle tension. While the Church begins a new…
Meet Our Adult Formation Team
Mrs. Nicola Sweetman
Adult Formation Co-ordinator
Canon John Lumley
Episcopal Vicar for Christian Discipleship
Mrs. Heidi Cummins
Adminstration Support
RCIA Process Overview
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is a transformative journey for those seeking to join the Catholic Church. It is a vital part of adult formation, guiding individuals through a deep spiritual and educational experience.
1
Inquiry Phase
This initial stage allows individuals to explore their faith questions and learn about the Catholic Church’s teachings and traditions.
2
Catechumenate
During this period, participants deepen their understanding of the faith through catechesis, prayer, and community involvement.
3
Purification and Enlightenment
This stage coincides with Lent, focusing on spiritual preparation and reflection as candidates prepare for the sacraments of initiation.
Get in Touch with Us
Phone
Reach us at (01642) 850505 ext 241
Address
Curial Offices, 50a The Avenue, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough. TS5 6QT
Adult Formation c/o Middlesbrough Diocesan Curial Offices
Curial Offices, 50a The Avenue, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough. TS5 6QT