St. Mary’s of the Lake & St. Benedict’s Faith Formation

“Always be ready to give a reason for your hope” (1 Peter 3:15)

We come to church seeking hope. Our parents bring their children for faith formation wanting them to have hope. Our faith formation programs teach us about our faith so that we might know why faith gives us hope. Thus, regardless of our age, learning about our faith is something that is good for all of us.

Grades K-6

Recognizing that we all need to grow in knowledge and understanding of our faith, our faith formation for children is not one where parents drop their children off and leave. At the same time our teachers are meeting with the children, parents meet with Fr. Jeff or the Faith Formation Coordinator. Then, the parents are sent home for the next month with short weekly lessons to teach their children. Parents can ask questions of Fr. Jeff. Our family sessions begin with a kickoff celebration on Sunday, September 21st at 11:30 am. Regular sessions will be held on the first Sunday of each month. Please register your family in advance.

First Reconciliation and First Eucharist

Children who have been baptized in the Catholic Church and are entering the second grade (or higher) may be ready to start preparation to make their First Reconciliation followed by First Eucharist in the spring. These children must be participating in our family program for grades K-6 and several preparation classes meeting on the third Sunday of the month prior to celebrating each Sacrament.

 

Confirmation for Youth

Confirmation preparation in our diocese is currently a two-year process. Youth who have been baptized, received their First Communion, and are in at least the 8th grade, may enroll in year one of the program. We will be starting a new group in September. If you have a teen who is ready to start the two-year preparation process, please contact Fr. Jeff.

All children and youth preparing to receive Sacraments should be regularly attending Mass.

Please contact Fr. Jeff at
Or call 607-535-2786 ext. 104 to register your family.