Religious Education

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION • PRE-K4–12TH GRADE

Helping children know, love, and serve Jesus Christ

Faith formation begins in the family. St. Mary’s walks alongside parents so children and youth can encounter Christ, grow in His Church, and learn to share Him with others.

Formation rooted in Jesus Christ and the life of His Church

Ready to begin?

Register your child for formation and sacramental preparation.

K–5 Calendar

See session dates and important family formation milestones.

6th–12th Calendar

Find middle school, high school, and Confirmation dates.

OUR MISSION

Parents are the first teachers of faith

The mission of St. Mary Catholic Church Religious Education is to help children and youth know, love, and serve Jesus Christ and proclaim Him to others.

We support parents through an ongoing encounter with Christ and His Catholic Church within a caring parish community. Our goal is not simply to complete classes, but to help young people build a relationship with Jesus—especially in the Eucharist, Scripture, the teachings of the Church, and the life of our parish family.

NEED HELP?

Julie Rex, M.Ed.

Director of Faith Formation

FIND THE RIGHT PATH

Formation for every stage

Not sure which option fits your child? Start here, then contact us and we will help your family take the next step.

Family Catechesis

For elementary children continuing religious education or completing year one of sacramental preparation. Families grow in faith together through parish-supported formation at home.

Sacramental Preparation

For elementary children preparing to receive First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion after completing year one of preparation.

Middle & High School

Formation and community for youth in grades 6–12, including preparation for Confirmation and opportunities to encounter Christ with peers.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

Age and grade placement

Children from Pre-K4 through high school are eligible for Religious Education. In accordance with parish policy, age categories are determined by September 1:

  • Four years old to enter Pre-K4
  • Five years old to enter Kindergarten
  • Six years old to enter Grade 1
  • All other placements follow the child’s current school grade

If you are unsure where your child belongs, please contact the Faith Formation Office. We are glad to help.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

A note about sacramental preparation

Baptism and Reconciliation are prerequisites for receiving First Holy Communion.

If your child has not yet been baptized, please contact us as early as possible so we can help your family prepare to celebrate this sacrament.

Help a young person encounter Jesus

Please prayerfully consider serving as a catechist, small-group leader, classroom assistant, or hospitality volunteer. Your presence can make a lasting difference in a child’s life.

We would be honored to walk with your family

Whether your child is beginning religious education, preparing for a sacrament, or returning after time away, there is a place for your family in this story.

Listen to Fr. Will’s Homily from last week about the amazing things happening at St. Mary’s and learn how you can help.