St. Anthony's Youth Faith Formation offers Catechesis to prepare baptized children and youth for sacraments as well as provide workshops and retreats given to parents and youth to enrich and unfold what is being learned in the class.
Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance)
Children begin preparing for this sacrament in second grade (beginning at age 7). The first sacrament we prepare our children for, after baptism, is Reconciliation. At the end of the first year, the youth are ready to have their first confession. They are taught the Commandments and how they can relate them to their daily life experiences. They are shown how to forgive and also ask for forgiveness all while experiencing the love and mercy of God.
Sessions
Sessions will start in late August/Early September and end in early June. Sessions for the preparation of this sacrament are currently taught on Wednesday afternoon from 4:30pm-6pm, Wednesday evening from 6:20pm-7:50pm, and Thursday from 4:30pm-6pm. Children are placed in a class with other children that are of the same age and preparing for the same sacrament.
Sacrament of Eucharist (Communion)
Children begin preparing for this sacrament in third grade (beginning at age 8). The children are prepared to participate more fully during the mass by the reception of the precious body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. They are taught the different parts of the mass, the vessels used, the vestments used by the presider, etc. Weekly mass attendance is vital in order for the children to better internalize and understand what is being taught in class.
Sessions
Sessions will start in late August/Early September and end in early June. Sessions for the preparation of this sacrament are currently taught on Wednesday afternoon from 4:30pm-6pm, Wednesday evening from 6:20pm-7:50pm, and Thursday from 4:30pm-6pm. Children are placed in a class with other children that are of the same age and preparing for the same sacrament.
Sacrament of Confirmation (First Year)
Youth begin preparing for this sacrament in 6th grade or older. The preparation for Confirmation is a two-year process. Candidates are taught a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith, not only through study but through action. The gospel values and actions of Jesus and the early apostles are brought to light as they reflect and are challenged to live those values in today’s culture.
Sessions
Sessions will start in late August/Early September and end in early June. Sessions for the preparation of this sacrament are currently taught on Wednesday afternoon from 4:30pm-6pm, Wednesday evening from 6:20pm-7:50pm, and Thursday from 4:30pm-6pm. Children are placed in a class with other children that are of the same age and preparing for the same sacrament.
Sacrament of Confirmation (Second Year)
Candidates will meet to discuss, reflect, share, and grow in their relationship with Christ and our community. They complete their servant leadership and prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation in the next Faith Formation year.
Sessions
Sessions will begin in late August/early September and end in early June. Sessions for the preparation of second year of Confirmation are currently taught on Tuesday's from 5:30pm-7:00pm.
Rite of Confirmation
After the completion of the 2nd Year of Confirmation, we will have 2-3 meetings which will include the Confirmation practice to review the Confirmation rite and practice. Depending on the Bishop’s calendar, the Confirmation mass could occur from early summer to the fall.