Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion:
Children in 2nd grade or older, in addition to their grade-level faith formation as explained above, are invited to prepare to celebrate the Sacraments of Reconciliation (or Confession) and First Holy Communion. Preparation will consist of a parent meeting in late fall (an online parent meeting will also be available); a retreat in January; and 6 sets of online resources for each sacrament (a mix of videos and Zoom gatherings with additional handouts). Preparation for First Reconciliation will happen mainly during Lent with celebration of the Sacrament at the end of Lent. Preparation for First Holy Communion will happen during the Easter Season with Celebration of First Holy Communion in May.
Preparation for Confirmation
Preparation for Confirmation is a two year process that usually happens in 8th and 9th grade, and is composed of 37 topics over the two years. A parent information meeting will be held in early fall (an online parent meeting will also be available). The content for Confirmation this year will be covered through four Zoom gatherings (a make up video and activity will be provided for those that cannot attend the zoom class), four videos to be watched and discussed with their sponsor, and eight videos with reflection questions to be watched on their own.
In addition to this there will be:
· A retreat in the spring
· A personal prayer journal (meant to offer the opportunity to go beyond the mind to the heart. This are confidential and will not be turned in).
· Service opportunities
· Second year students will take part in two additional immediate preparation gatherings in person or online at the end of the year, as the circumstances at the time allow.
What if I want to become Catholic?
If you would like to become Catholic you are most welcome and invited to join G.I.F.T. which will be part of our R.C.I.A. program. The R.C.I.A., or Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, is a very ancient method through which the Catholic Church has been welcoming new members and training them in the faith since the 5th Century, at least. In addition to G.I.F.T., the R.C.I.A. will meet additional times for teaching and conversation, for prayer experiences, and service opportunities. At the end of the process you will be welcomed into the Church and receive the Sacraments at the Great Easter Vigil of the Resurrection of the Lord on Easter. If you are interested in becoming Catholic please indicate you want to go through R.C.I.A. on the registration form.