Elementary Christian Formation
Grades 1-6
We are excited to grow in partnership with you to help your child in Grades 1-6 grow in Catholic faith and knowledge. Our Elementary Program includes teachings on the Tradition, Scriptures, Prayer and Social Teachings of the Catholic Church. Student Evaluations are sent at the completion of each semester and will include class attendance status, Prayer Experience, Mass Reflections (grades 2-6), Reconciliation Prayer Service (grade 2), Youth Holy Hour (grades 3-6) and one Family Faith in Action/Enrichment event attendance (grades 4-6).
First Reconciliation & Holy Communion
First Holy Communion is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. First Communion is the first time that a person receives the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, which is the eating of consecrated bread and sometimes drinking of consecrated wine. Most Catholic children receive their First Holy Communion when they are 7 or 8 years old, as this is considered the age of reason. Catholics believe in the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist. While receiving the Eucharist is a sacrament each time it is received, Catholics celebrate the first time this is done as a part of a special ceremony and a memorable, important part of our lives! Catholics should be in a state of grace when receiving Communion, which is why the Sacrament of Reconciliation is given to us first. In addition to class enrollment for two years and meeting other preparation requirements, full, conscious and active participation at Sunday Mass is the most powerful and most significant means parents have for preparing their child to receive Holy Communion for the first time.
Sacraments at a Later Age (SALA) is a program for children and youth, grades 4-10, who have been delayed in the reception of the sacraments of Baptism and/or First Communion and/or Penance. SALA is a two-year process. During the first year, participants attend the parish's Religious Education classes only. During this year, children and youth become familiar with religion classes, vocabulary, prayer, and ritual. The second year of the process includes sessions from November to Easter in addition to regular elementary or youth ministry religion classes. For specifics, contact the Christian Formation Office.
