It has been the philosophy of our parish that faith formation exists from “Womb to Tomb”, meaning that we must form our parishioners from Baptism until the celebration of Christian Burial. We offer a variety of programs to improve the faith formation for all ages and our formation should not end once we receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. The following is brief synopses of our programs, for additional information; please contact the Parish Office at 324-2420.
 

Children’s Liturgy of the Word - Children's Liturgy of the Word is a worship experience geared especially for preschool children through grade 2 (or until they have made their first communion).  It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. 

Liturgy of the Word with Children is not formal religious education, nor is it intended to substitute for attendance at religious education sessions.  Rather, it should be considered a partner to your child's continuing religious education program.

The word of God has a message that is as relevant and fitting for children as it is for adults; however, children often fail to hear the message simply because the adult vocabulary is beyond their comprehension.  Liturgy of the Word with Children offers an experience for children to hear Scripture in words they understand and to share their own understanding of God's word. 

Celebrating the Liturgy of the Word in this way is an empowering experience, giving children a foundation for understanding and appreciating Scripture.  Over time, children not only become comfortable with hearing and discussing God's word, but they gain an understanding of an appreciation for their liturgical heritage as Catholics.

Families who wish to participate in Liturgy of the Word with Children begin seated together in the church as usual for the Introductory Rites. After the Introductory Rites, the presider invites any children who have not yet received their first communion, and who wish to participate to join in procession behind the leader as they go to their worship space. They return after the General Intercessions to celebrate the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the entire community.

All leaders are volunteers from within the parish. There is great need for more trained volunteers. If you would like to volunteer as a leader, an assistant leader, or a monitor, please contact the church office at 324-2420.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word takes place at Holy Family Church during the 9:00am and 11:00am Masses. Because children are still in a worship environment and actively listening to the Word of God, please do not send your child with food, drink, or toys. It is highly desirable for your child to have had breakfast and gone to the bathroom before Mass begins, and for you to ensure that your child knows where to find you upon their return.

.

 Sacrament Preparation and Celebration:
Students prepare for their First Reconciliation (Confession) prior to receiving First Eucharist (Communion) and Confirmation in the second grade. Students are required to complete two years in religious education classes before they are prepared for these sacraments.  Parents attend a workshop for each sacrament to complete the process of preparation prior to celebrating. Reconciliation is celebrated in the winter and First Eucharist and Confirmation is celebrated in the spring. 

Christian Initiation for Children: 
The Christian Initiation for Children enables children in second grade who have never attended faith formation classes and children in grades 3 and up who have not completed any of the following Sacraments: Baptism, 1^st Reconciliation, Confirmation or 1^st Eucharist to enter into a relationship with the living God and share in the life of their identity as Christians. Our goal is a means of conversion consistent with the child’s age and understanding. Like the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, we strive to instruct the child in his/her own faith as a Catholic Christian. Different from the adult process, the conversion of children is a “belonging” process. Much of the catechesis for children greatly depends on forming and nurturing relationships with other believing children. The initiation team includes not only the teachers, but most importantly, the parents. The true success of the program depends on the parents. The parent must insure the child attends all classes, learns their prayers, and experiences a Catholic environment at home. At least one parent is needed to attend the family sessions. Sessions are held on Mondays from 4-5PM starting in September and ending after the Confirmation Mass in the spring. Sessions are located at the Faith Center in Springvale. Please contact the Parish Office if your child is in need of any of the aforementioned Sacraments.