Sacrament Preparation
Preparation for Older Children
Special classes are held on Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. The reconciliation preparation for grades 4-10 is held fromOctober and November. The Communion preparation for grades 4-10 is held in January to May. Third graders are integrated into a second grade class during the preparation period for second grades which occurs in the winter.
Christian Initiation of Children
A process of preparation for unbaptized children of catechetical age (approximately age 7) to become full members of the Church. This family-centered process, modeled after the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, includes children's classes focused on the beginnings of Christian life and particular rites (celebrations) that mark the child's progression into the community of faith. Children receive the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil. Families who desire baptism for their school age child(ren) are encouraged to call the Religious Education Office and discuss this initiation process fully.
Eucharist
(Please note: Children must be enrolled for 1 year prior to the year preparation for first communion.) Children are normally prepared for first Holy Communion during the second grade. The program is designed to offer children the experience of the Eucharist as the center and heart of the Catholic faith. Through nine Eucharistic themes, the children study all the major rites, actions and prayers of the Eucharistic celebration. The preparation for Eucharist also includes a parent education program, retreat day, and family celebrations and activities.
Reconciliation
Children prepare for the sacrament of Reconciliation during the second grade. Teaching is designed to foster and strengthen the child's relationship with God and welcome children into the sacramental life of the community. The age appropriate curriculum stresses the sacrament of Reconciliation as a celebration of God's mercy and forgiveness. A parent program presents an update on the theology of reconciliation, focusing on an understanding of sin, conversion, and living a life of reconciliation. Families and children take part in a special prayer service as part of the preparation. The whole process culminates in a Communal Reconcilation Prayer Service with individual confessions follwed by a simple celebration in the Memorial Center.
Confirmation
The Confirmation preparation process is designed for use with ninth, tenth and eleventh grade students. This two-year model is grounded in contemporary initiation theology, rooted in the life of a community of believers and focused on initiating young people into ongoing faith development within our Church. Family involvement, community service, liturgical rites and a special retreat are interspersed throughout the year.
