The Church recognizes that parents are the first and best teachers of the faith for their children. The programs offered in the parish are meant to give support and structure to the formation that is happening in the home. Our focus is not only on information but also on transformation of heart so that the children become one in Jesus Christ. We strive to integrate the meaning and message of the Word of God, the development of a community of faith, the celebration of Liturgy and worship, and Christianity lived out in service and discipleship. Our goal is to help the children and families connect their faith with their lived experience, their personal stories reflected on in the light of scripture and the living tradition of the community.

Classroom based Faith Formation groups average sixteen children with two adults per room. Both The Franciscan School and the parish Faith Formation children learn doctrine through the use of a textbook. In addition there is a strong focus on Scripture, particularly the Sunday readings, prayer, Catholic Social Teaching and stewardship of time, talent and treasure.

For more information, visit our Frequently Asked Questions or contact the following staff members:

Maureen Leahy, Director of Children's Faith Formation
Phone: 919-847-8205 ext. 239 
E-mail: Maureen Leahy

Laura Keltie, Administrative Specialist   
Phone: 919-847-8205 ext 237 
E-mail: Laura Keltie


SACRAMENTS OVERVIEW

Sacramental Preparation
Preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist takes place on many levels. In the home the children are first nurtured, educated and introduced to the traditions of the family and the faith community. The family must be active participants in the sacramental preparation of their child. Not only are the children prepared but the parents participate in several formation sessions and a retreat.

The children may be prepared for sacraments through weekly parish Faith Formation sessions, The Franciscan School or through Family Intergenerational Religious Education (F.I.R.E.).

First Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated when the children reach the age of reason, which traditionally is seven years old. Preparation is a two year process beginning in the first grade. The focus of learning is on belonging (community), making choices, the Commandments, forgiveness… both being forgiven and offering forgiveness. The sacrament is celebrated in late Fall at a communal Reconciliation service with families present.

First Eucharist
Eucharist is the second sacrament of initiation with Baptism being the first. It is the job and the joy of the whole parish to prepare and initiate its children into the Eucharistic life of the Church through our weekly celebration of the Mass. For this reason it is vital that the children participate in the Mass on a weekly basis. The sacrament of First Eucharist is celebrated in late Spring at all the regular Masses on a given weekend. Families may select the Mass at which they would like to celebrate.

The learning for First Eucharist focuses on the themes of gathering, celebrating, listening to God’s Word, remembering, sharing and serving.

CLASSES SCHEDULE & OVERVIEW

Faith Formation Classes Schedule
Faith Formation classes for elementary grades are held on Sundays from 8:00 to 9:15 AM; 12:45 to 2:00 PM and 4:00 to 5:15 PM. On Mondays children meet from 4:45 to 6:00 PM.

All elementary sessions are held in The Franciscan School, the parish education center. 

Family-centered Intergenerational Religious Education (FIRE)
FIRE is based on the belief that we learn from each other and that we are all searching and hungering for God. FIRE teaches within small intergenerational communities of four to six households, in which people of all ages come together to learn about God. Each of the five years of the program covers a different theme: Revelation, Sacrament, Old Testament, Creed, and Morality. Families meet in homes or at the parish (space permitting) sixteen times a year at a time agreed upon by the group. Families share the responsibility for facilitating the lesson and hospitality. Orientation, materials and support are provided by the Faith Formation staff. You may form your own group or request to join with other families.

Home Schooling
Parents may choose to share faith and form their children at home. Working with the text book that is used both in the parish and school programs, parents can download lesson plans from the publisher’s web site. Registration is required so that the faith Formation office may provide materials and support to the family. 

Vacation Bible School 
Vacation Bible School is a week long morning program for children in grades pre-K to five. The week is filled with great fun and includes Bible stories, music, crafts, outdoor games, storytelling and great snacks. VBS is usually held in mid to late June; check the Faith Formation calendar for the exact date. Registration is held in the early spring. Middle and High School youth are encouraged to become teen helpers. Preparation begins in January and lots of hands are needed.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I register my child/youth for Faith Formation?
Registration is held in the spring for the following fall. Forms are available on line at the parish web site and may also be found in the Stewardship Center at the church or in the Faith Formation Offices located in Thea Hall at The Franciscan School.

How do I enroll my child/youth for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist?
Your child is automatically enrolled upon registration for Faith Formation in first grade. Preparation is a two year process with the sacraments celebrated in grade two. If your child is beyond first or second grade and needs to prepare for sacraments, contact the Faith Formation office at x 239.

Where is Faith Formation held?

All Elementary children and Middle School youth (MSYM) meet in the Franciscan School. High School youth (TYM) meet in Clare and Anthony Halls.

How do I know if Faith Formation is cancelled due to weather?

For cancellations due to weather call the parish @ 847-8205 for weather update message. For the elementary children in addition to this message, you may call the Director at extension 239

Do I need to fill out a separate form for each child/youth?

You may register your family on one form for all three programs:
Elementary (CFF) – K to 5th Grade
Middle School (MSYM) – 6th to 8th Grade
High School (TYM) 9th to 12th Grade

Registration forms are located up on the left side of this Web page.