Children must be three years old and potty trained by September 1 in order to begin the program. Children are placed by age/grade level so that when they begin elementary Faith Formation, they are in the correct class.
The program is designed to gently introduce children to the Catholic faith while teaching basic bible stories, Saints, and prayers that they will use for a lifetime. The program also introduces children to giving and helping those less fortunate.
Each class is one hour and fifteen minutes on Saturday or on Monday. Incorporated into each class is a bible lesson, coloring/activity sheets, music, crafts and sometimes games and special activities or events.
Some of the special events/activities are:
- Baby Jesus party where the children donate new/used gifts for needy families in our Parish to celebrate the birth of Christ.
- participating in a mock "Last Supper"
- spring planting to emphasize the beauty and wonder of God's creations
- graduation and end of year program to show what they have learned during the year
- special celebrations for Saint Days such as St. Nicholas, St. Valentine, St. Frances
- holiday celebrations that help the children understand how the particular holiday fits into our Faith
The four-year-olds review the very same stories/parables in more depth. They learn more detail about the holidays and Saints. They also continue learning "The Lord's Prayer" and move on to the "Hail Mary".
Kindergarteners go over most of the same information, but also begin to understand the Catechism of the Catholic Church as it applies in different areas. They learn much more details about the Saints and learn to become comfortable with prayer and the different ways to pray. They also begin learning the Rosary and various other prayers.
For more information about Pre-School Faith Formation, contact GLoria Gove at (972) 279-6581.