Child and Youth Formation

St. Matthew’s Child and Youth Ministries offer many opportunities for faith formation for children from age 3 through young adults preparing for confirmation.  We recognize that the parents are the first and most important teachers of their children, so all of our formation areas are included in our intergenerational sessions known as GIFT – Generations Growing in Faith Together.

Preschool ages 3, 4 and 5
Classes meet during the 9:30 mass, so that parents may attend Mass while knowing that their children are also learning about Jesus on an age-appropriate level.  Our catechists use stories, song, movement and art experiences to share the love of God and teachings of Jesus with the children.

Grades 1-8 Monday Night Classes
Children in grades one though eight meet from 6:30-7:30 pm to learn more about their Catholic faith.  Our catechists in grades 1-5 use the Sadlier “We Believe” series to develop their lessons.  Grades 6-8 follow a curriculum that includes the Bible, Pfalum Visions magazine, and Faith Works for Junior High.                    

Grades 6-8 Sunday Morning Classes
This is an alternative to our Monday night classes for our middle school children who might have extracurricular events on Monday night.  These classes meet on Sunday mornings from 10:30-noon twice a month.

Families of Faith Program
This is an alternative to our Monday night classes.  This program is designed for the entire family to attend.  We meet twice a month from 9:00am until noon.  We begin our session reading and discussing the Sunday readings and then attend Mass.  After Mass, we break into age groups and the children learn about a specific topic on their age level while the adults meet to do the same.  We then gather as a whole group for a short closing.

Grades 9 and 10
Class times for this age group will vary due to speakers or projects we are involved in.  Most sessions take place on Sunday mornings from 10:30am-noon.

Confirmation
Confirmation sessions generally take place on the 3rd Sunday of each month.  There are service activities and special events for sponsors and students, as well as an overnight retreat and a day of reflection.  A few of the sessions will involve the sponsor as well as the student.  

Preparing for the sacraments of First Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation

The Archdiocese guidelines state that one year of religious education is needed before preparing for these sacraments.  Children generally prepare for the sacraments of reconciliation and First Eucharist during second grade, provided that the child has been attending religious education the previous year.  Confirmation is generally celebrated in the junior year of high school, provided the student has attended religious education the previous year.  

Children interested in becoming Catholic
Children age 7 or above, who are interested in being baptized, are invited to explore the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) process.  This process follows the format of the adults wishing to be baptized, but is adapted to fit the child’s age level.  This process generally lasts 2 years and does require the participation of either the child’s parent(s) or another adult with whom the child has a close relationship with.  This process is designed to meet the needs of the family.  Please contact the Director of Child and Family Ministry to learn more.  

Older Children Celebrating First Reconciliation and Eucharist
Although many children celebrate these sacraments around age 7, children older than 7 are also invited to this as well.  Please contact the Director of Child and Family Ministry to discuss your individual situation.