K-12
As a Franciscan Community that commits to providing a safe and nurturing environment, we strive to affirm each person as made in the Image of God, and as a loved member of the Body of Christ. All of our faith formation programs reflect our parish mission statement:
Inspired by our patron Francis of Assisi, we seek to proclaim the reign of God by growing in Holiness through our experience of Christ in word, sacrament and one another, offering Hope to those who hunger for human dignity, and extending Hospitality to all.
Our programs flow from participation in the Sunday liturgy and use a small group based model to allow your children and youth to interact and discuss their faith. We work to accompany all parishioners on a lifelong journey to meet, know, love and serve Jesus.
Please review the programs below.
Cross Step is a vibrant and engaging part of St. Francis of Assisi’s Cross faith formation series, designed specifically for our youngest parishioners. This program welcomes children ages 1 (who are walking) through 5 years old who are not currently enrolled in kindergarten.
Cross Step provides a warm, nurturing environment where little ones can begin to explore their faith through age-appropriate activities, music, and play, helping them take their first steps in a lifelong journey with Christ.
To register for the 2025-2026 school year click here.
For more information, go here: https://www.stfrancisraleigh.org/1-5-years-pre-k/
Cross Walk meets immediately after the 9:00 AM Mass on Sunday mornings by breaking open the treasures of the Mass. Children hear a “proclaim” in the Church challenging them to put their faith into action by living The Word heard at Mass and then break out into small groups for prayer, discussion and engaging tactile/sensorial activities. We live the Gospel and bring the Gospel to life. If you are interested in joining, please contact Marisa Ferrara.
Cross Train is our middle school faith formation program. Our goal is to connect the youth to each other, to our parish and church at large, and to God and Jesus Christ. We do this by creating a fun, engaging, meaningful, and faith filled environment. Our youth ministry model follows Jesus’ ministry on earth; gather, proclaim, break, and send. Join us as we meet two to three Sunday’s a month from 6:45-8:15. Learn, grow, and serve in our five social nights, five service projects, and prayer evenings included in our regular youth night program. If you are interested in joining, please contact Jessica Montrella.
Cross Road is our vibrant high school youth ministry designed to help teens grow in faith, friendship, and service. While 9th grade is typically the second year of Confirmation preparation and students not enrolled in a Catholic high school are expected to participate, all high school students are welcome, regardless of grade or Confirmation status.
Cross Road meets two to three Sunday evenings per month following the 5:30 PM Mass. Each session follows an engaging “youth night” format built around four key movements:
- GATHER: We kick things off with snacks, games, and time to connect.
- PROCLAIM: A dynamic message is shared by an adult or teen leader, grounded in faith and relevant to high school life.
- BREAK: Participants dive into small group discussions led by trained adult and peer leaders, where they can reflect more deeply and build meaningful friendships.
- SEND: We end the night in prayer, encouraging one another to live out our faith in the week ahead.
Beyond our Sunday gatherings, Cross Road offers retreats, social events, and service opportunities throughout the year, helping teens experience their faith in action and build a strong community.
If you are interested in joining, please contact Tim Hetzel.