Children in Grades 1 to 6 use the RCL / Benziger Faith First Legacy Edition text series.  The Faith First curriculum is based on the four pillars examined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, namely:

• The Profession of Faith--Creed
• Celebration of the Christian Mystery--Liturgy and Sacraments
• Life in Christ--Morality
• Christian Prayer

With exercises appropriate to their age level, students are taught parts of each of the four pillars every year.

GRADES 7 to 12, and ADULTS

These parishioners use various materials on a rotating, bi-annual basis.  Every other year, one of the four RCL / Benziger texts in the Understanding the Catechism series is studied.  In opposite years, the Sunday Scriptures are explored and applied to one’s life, using either the Seasons of Faith series or an equivalent published program.

CONFIRMATION PREPARATION (GRADES 8-12)

Confirmation preparation is offered every other year for Grade 8-12 students , who have not yet celebrated this Sacrament of Initiation.  The text used is Confirmed in the Spirit by Loyola Press, which is based on a complete understanding of adolescents and their needs, and reflects a commitment to a learning process that has proven to be effective with young people.

Confirmation preparation is modeled on the four-part R. C. I. A. process:

• INVITATION:  A letter is sent to the youngsters, inviting them to enroll for the Confirmation preparation sessions.  This letter is followed by phone calls from the Director of Faith Formation.

• FORMATION:  Preparation learning sessions follow the same meeting schedule as Family Faith Formation.
• REFLECTION:  Candidates meet once a month (October through April) with the adult, whom they have chosen to be their Sponsor.  Each of these Sponsor-Candidate sessions has a particular discussion and reflection assignment, which is to be completed. The Retreat Day is the final step in the reflection process.
• MISSION:  Service to others is an important part of preparing to become fully initiated into the Body of Christ.  The youngsters are requested to assist with the Christmas Party that the parish provides for the adult residents of Lafayette Park, an adult care facility.  In addition, they are encouraged to commit to a regular, on-going type of service to others.