Faith Formation for Children
PreK through 5th Grade
We are committed to providing an enriching and comprehensive faith formation program for children in grades 1st through 5th. Our program incorporates four key elements: Prayer, Faith Education, Service, and Community. Through these elements, we aim to foster a strong foundation of faith and build fellowship among our young learners.
Every week, children are warmly welcomed to our faith formation sessions, held on Sundays from 9:30am to 10:25am. These sessions serve as a valuable opportunity for children to come together as a community, pray, learn about the teachings of the faith, and participate in service or ministry projects assigned to their respective grades or groups.
Prayer: Prayer serves as the cornerstone of our faith formation program. Children are encouraged to engage in various forms of prayer, both communal and personal. Through guided prayer experiences, they are taught the importance of communication with God and develop a deeper understanding of the power of prayer in their lives.
Faith Education: The Education component of our program is tailored to the specific age groups of each grade. Qualified catechists and volunteers lead engaging and interactive lessons that incorporate age-appropriate activities, stories, and discussions. These lessons cover a wide range of topics, including Scripture, sacraments, liturgical seasons, and moral teachings. By immersing children in the richness of the Catholic faith, we seek to enhance their knowledge and understanding of our beliefs and give them practical tools to live their faith in all aspects of their lives.
Service: Service is a crucial aspect of living out our faith. Children in our program are actively involved in service projects assigned to their grade or group. These projects allow them to put their faith into action, demonstrating compassion and empathy by serving those in need within our parish and wider community. By engaging in service activities, children learn the value of selflessness and the importance of dedicating their time and talents to others.
Community: Building a strong sense of community is at the heart of our faith formation program. Our sessions provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where children can connect with their peers and form lasting friendships. Through teamwork and collaboration, they learn the significance of being part of a faith community, supporting one another, and growing together in their journey of faith.
We invite all parents to enroll their children in our program, knowing that they will receive a well-rounded education that will empower them to live out their faith in the world. We look forward to embarking on this faith-filled journey with your family!
Blessings,
The Faith Formation Team
Calendar
September 2024
Sept 8 - Faith Formation Information Day @ 11:30AM - Renggli Room
Sept 22 - First Session Begins
Sept 29 - Session
October 2024
Oct 6 - Session
Oct 13 - Session
Oct 20 - Session
Oct 26 - Trunk or Treat @ 6:15 PM - STMP Parking Lot
Oct 27 - Session
November 2024
Nov 3 - Session
Nov 10 - No Sessions (Veterans Day)
Nov 17 - Session
Nov 24 - Session
December 2024
Dec 1 - Session - 1st Sunday of Advent - Thanksgiving Break
Dec 8 - Session - 2nd Sunday of Advent
Dec 15 - Session - 3rd Sunday of Advent
Dec 22 - No Session (Christmas Break)
Dec 24 - Children’s Christmas Eve Mass @ 5PM
Dec 29 - No Session (Christmas Break)
January 2025
Jan 5 - Session
Jan 12 - Session
Jan 19 - No Session (Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday)
Jan 26 - No Session (Catholic Schools Week)
February 2025
Feb 2 - Session - 1st Reconciliation Parent Meeting @ 9:30AM
Feb 9 - Session
Feb 16 - No Session (Presidents Day)
Feb 23 - Session
March 2025
Mar 2 - Session
Mar 5 - Ash Wednesday, Lent Begins…
Mar 9 - Session
Mar 16 - Session - 1st Eucharistic Parent Meeting @ 9:30AM
Mar 23 - Session
Mar 30 - Session
April 2025
April 6 - Session
April 13 - Session - Palm Sunday
April 20 - No Session (Easter Sunday)
April 27 - FF Mass @ 10:30AM & End of the Year Potluck @ 11:30AM
May 2025
May 10 - Sacrament of 1st Holy Communion Celebration @ 10AM
May 11 - 1st Communicants Lead the Procession @ 10:30AM Mass
Children’s Faith Formation FAQs
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Yes! Our programs are designed to support and enhance what children receive during religion class. It also gives them the opportunity to share the gift of their faith with their peers and friends outside of a class setting.
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Yes, there is a $50 per child registration fee that covers the cost of student workbooks and teaching materials/supplies for the year. A discounted rate is provided for families registering more than two children and scholarships are available for families in need. Please contact Sharon Guerrero for more information or to request a discount code or scholarship.
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All children’s faith formation programs in the archdiocese of Seattle are designed to help children and their families live out their faith by engaging in the sacramental and community life of the parish. We are happy to welcome families whose parish may not be able to offer faith formation for their child/children’s age group at this time or who are unable to attend their parish’s faith formation programs due to schedule conflicts. Non-parish families who are seeking sacramental preparation for Baptism, First Communion, or Confirmation for their children are required to provide a letter of support from their pastor or director of faith formation. Letters can be addressed to Fr. Matthew O’Leary and must be provided to Sharon Guerrero before registering.
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Thank you for sharing your time and talents with our children! Please click here for more information and to sign up.
Join Our Catechist Team!
Are you passionate about sharing the Catholic faith with children and nurturing their spiritual growth? Do you have a heart for teaching and guiding young minds? If so, we invite you to join our team as a catechist or facilitator for children in grades 1-5!
At our parish family, we believe that catechists play a vital role in forming the faith of our younger parishioners. As a catechist or facilitator, you will have the opportunity to truly make a difference in the lives of children, helping them develop a strong foundation in our rich Catholic traditions and teachings.
What Does a Catechist Do?
As a catechist or facilitator, you will be responsible for leading catechetical sessions and helping children explore the beauty of our faith through engaging and age-appropriate activities. You will have the chance to share stories from the Bible, guide discussions, and facilitate hands-on experiences that deepen the children's understanding of the sacraments, prayers, and important beliefs of the Catholic Church.
Qualifications:
A deep love for the Catholic faith and a desire to share it with children
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Patience and flexibility in working with children of different ages and learning abilities
A willingness to collaborate with other catechists and support the overall faith formation program
Completion of the catechist training offered by the parish (if not already completed)
How to Get Involved:
If you are interested in joining our team as a catechist or facilitator for children grades 1st through 5th, please reach out to our Faith Formation office. You can call our main office or send us an email expressing your interest. We will provide you with more information about the application process, training opportunities, and the time commitment involved. We welcome both experienced catechists and individuals who are new to this rewarding role. Whether you have years of experience or are just beginning your journey as a faith educator, your love for God and your willingness to share that love with children are the most important attributes we seek.
Make a Difference Today!
Becoming a catechist or facilitator for children in grades 1st through 5th is an incredible opportunity to impact young lives and help shape their faith journey. The rewards are immeasurable as you witness their spiritual growth and see the light of understanding ignite in their eyes.
If you feel called to share your faith and guide children in their relationship with God, we wholeheartedly encourage you to get involved. Together, let us inspire the next generation of Catholics and nurture their love for Christ!
Please contact our Faith Formation office for more information on how to become a catechist or facilitator for children grades 1st through 5th. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!