Religious Education Programs
Liturgy of the Word for Children: During Liturgy of the Word for Children young children leave the sanctuary during the Liturgy of the Word to hear the scripture readings proclaimed and explained at an age-appropriate level. We engage in activities to support the children’s understanding of the gospel message.
Sacramental preparation for Eucharist and Reconciliation: Children in first grade or older can begin this process to prepare to receive First Eucharist. In our hybrid model 2-year program, parents are required to attend four sessions each year. Our weekly session, meet on either Wednesday afternoon or Sunday mornings, where the children learn with their Catechist. Students in their 2nd year prepare for the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation as part of their regular faith formation sessions.
Christian Initiation for Children (Ages 7+)
This year-long process prepares unbaptized children aged 7 and older to enter the Church through Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Children receive age-appropriate faith formation, while families participate in Friday evening sessions to grow together spiritually. Regular attendance at the 5:30 p.m. Mass is encouraged to immerse children in the Catholic liturgy. Families are also encouraged to read the Bible and share faith at home, integrating Catholic teachings into daily life. Through this preparation, children and their families gain a deeper understanding of Catholic traditions and beliefs, leading them to receive the sacraments of initiation.
Young Disciples: Continuing Faith Formation for Grades 3-5
Children in grades 3-5 who have received their First Eucharist are invited to take an active role in our community. Our young disciples meet either on Wednesday afternoons or Sunday mornings with their Catechist to deepen their understanding of the faith. While sacraments like the Eucharist are essential to our spiritual life, they mark the beginning, not the end, of our journey with Christ.
Parents are encouraged to enroll their children in this ongoing formation program. The curriculum focuses on God, the Church, and the teachings of Jesus Christ through Sacred Scripture and the rich tradition of the Catholic faith. Through these sessions, children continue to grow in faith and understanding, fostering a lifelong relationship with Christ and the Church.
Crosswalk Middle School Program (Grades 6-8)
Our middle school program provides a unique opportunity for students in grades 6-8 to engage in fellowship and learning. These sessions, tailored to their developmental stage, focus on activities, discussions, and topics that are most relevant to them and their families.
Our Teen Confirmation Program is designed to engage and prepare students in grades 9-12 to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation in a meaningful way. The goal is to equip young people to live a life rooted in Christ and to express their faith through both word and action. Over the 2-year preparation process, we aim for teens to develop a strong sense of belonging at Holy Family and within the wider Catholic Church, recognize the Holy Spirit as their guide and advocate, and actively participate in:
- Regular Sunday worship and liturgical ministry,
- Service to the broader community, and
- Faith Formation sessions and Community Life events with their families.
Youth Ministry – J.U.I.C.E. Team
Our Youth Ministry is grounded in God’s unconditional love for us, which forms the foundation of our Church and our purpose in life. The J.U.I.C.E. Team (Join Us In Christ Eternally) consists of recently confirmed teens and young adults who mentor their peers in leadership and help facilitate the Confirmation and Youth Ministry programs.