"The single, most powerful casual influence on the religious lives of American teenagers and young adults is the religious lives of their parents. Not their peers, not the media, not their youth group leaders or clergy, not their religious school teachers. The influence of parents in religiousness trumps every other influence."
~Dr. Christian Smith
Monthly Gatherings
Families gather at the parish once a month during the school year for 90 minutes (Wednesdays from 5p-6:30p OR 7p-8:30p). During the monthly gatherings, families will have the opportunity for praise & worship, prayer, grade specific & parent breakout time, and parent connection time. Parents are also provided resources and information about the at-home materials for the month.
Youth grade specific breakout sessions will be available for those in Preschool - High School. (We are looking at the option of having childcare available for youth younger than preschool aged.)
Parents who are volunteering within a child's small group breakout time have the option to attend the other time session to hear the parent monthly message OR a recording of the parent talk will be made and provided to volunteers as well.
At-Home Formation (PreSchool - 8th Grade)
Families will be provided the "Gospel Weeklies" from Pflaum Publishing and additional resources to further the formation at home. The "Gospel Weeklies" are based on the upcoming Sunday Gospel reading, allowing for parents with multiple children to focus on a similar theme each week but still are provided age specific resources for each child. These resources will help families engage in conversation and enhance their Sunday Mass experience.
Confirmation Preparation (High School)
See our Confirmation Preparation page for more information about this 2-year program utilizing the "Chosen" materials from Ascension Press. Teens can begin the 2-year program as early as 9th Grade.
Post Confirmation / High School Teens
Post Confirmation / High School Teens are encouraged to volunteer within the Family Formation program, continue to attend Youth Ministry events, and engage in their faith with their families. Post-Confirmation teens looking to engage in a small group of other post-confirmation teens should contact the parish office to inquire about options.
First Reconciliation & First Eucharist Preparation
See our First Sacraments page for more information about this preparation program. Youth can enroll in preparing for First Sacraments as early as 2nd Grade.
Questions?
Contact the Parish Office at 651-423-4402 or email us at faithformation@stjosephcommunity.org