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I heard a very good definition of faith today during a Bible Convention which I attended together with the other members of the Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) in our area.  Faith is said to be the human response to the God that speaks to us.  It is also said to be the human response of love to a God that loved us first.

How do Children Learn about Faith?

Faith is a product of upbringing.  New-born children do not get to choose their religion.  It is a matter usually decided upon by default as dictated by the parents' belief.  

Faith is then reinforced primarily in the home and school environment during childhood. Their religious actions are usually dictated upon by a figure of authority such as a parent, a teacher, or a religious.  As people grow older, there will be external factors that will either reinforce or weaken their faith. 

How do Adults Learn about Faith?

Adults build on their existing faith primarily by studying and understanding the word of God.  There are questions that usually arise that may encourage them to search for answers beyond their existing belief.   Many tend to hold on to the faith they have known all their lives while some will choose to change.  It would depend on how deeply-rooted a person's faith is and how such faith has been made to be part of a person's daily life.

Those who actively seek a deeper understanding of their faith join groups and organizations that can lead them to the path they seek.  Others become actively involved in church activities.  Some will choose the less-traveled path of evangelizing which is never an easy thing to do.  

My Say

The Pope who is the leader of the Catholic faith has called upon the laity to join in its call for new evangelization.  This is most significant since we are on the Year of Faith. This is a call to participate in spreading God's word as found in the Bible.  This is a call to help bring the word of God into the lives of people by preaching and listening.

That said, evangelization is not to be construed as a means to fight with other beliefs as there is nothing to be achieved from such an action.  It is my personal belief that religions who call God by different names are actually calling on one especially if their goals are intended for the good of their God, others, and themselves.  If it is for the common good, then there is absolutely nothing to disagree about.

In my faith, I find my peace and my rest.  It is my hope that everyone does.  Faith begins from listening.