Parish Religious Education - Children's Ministries

Classes of religious formation are held on Sunday from 10:15—11:00 AM to provide the support, education and faith development for our children in public schools from Pre-K through eighth grade. Sacramental preparation years are in Grades One and Two (for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist) and Grades 8 & 9 (for Confirmation). Catechists and aides are needed, training is provided.

Children's Liturgy of the Word

The Office of Religious Education coordinates this effort for our young people between the ages of four through the 4th Grade. The children are led by adult catechists from the 9:00 Sunday assembly to another location (Parish Meeting Room) to break open the Word from the Sunday's scripture readings more at the children's level of understanding.

Vacation Bible School

This is a one week children's Bible School held in July that focuses on fun-filled, faith-filled experiences. This is for children ages four to ten years old, to help them grow in awareness of the Word of God. Parishioners are always needed in a variety of roles.

Hospitality Committee

The purpose of this committee is to offer hospitality for our catechists and parents for meetings and events. You would be asked to set up coffee and provide baked items.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

Baptism Preparation

Baptism incorporates us into Christ and forms us into God's people. It is the first sacrament of initiation. The Catholic Church baptizes people of all ages - from infants to adults. To help prepare individuals and families for this sacrament, the Church offers various forms of formation.

At. St. Anthony's families choosing to baptize their infant are invited to attend a preparation class which offers insight and guidance concerning the Sacrament of Baptism. Classes are held quarterly and Baptisms are celebrated once a month during the Sunday mass, except during Advent and Lent.

Baptismal Preparation Classes help parents prepare for the gift and responsibility of raising children in the Catholic Christian faith. Presented by a team of enthusiastic parents, sessions take place on Sunday's ***** and are required before Baptism. Volunteers of the parish make baptismal bibs that are given to the baptized children. If you like to share your faith and tell stories about your children, serve refreshments, or lead small group discussions, please join us.

Confirmation

Confirmation represents the fullness of Christian Initiation, and our candidates begin their two-year preparation in the eighth grade as part of our ongoing religious education program.

Confirmation is also a sacrament of initiation as it helps to strengthen the faith begun at Baptism. This sacrament is another step in the life-long process of journeying with one another toward God. Through an anointing with special oil (chrism) and a laying on of hands, the life of the Holy Spirit within us is strengthened. At St. Anthony's preparation for Confirmation begins for those in the eighth grade and older. Classes include study, service, retreat and worship. Registration takes place in the fall.

Confirmation Preparation Committee

This parent committee helps in the preparation process for the sacrament of Confirmation, by assisting with service projects, retreats, parent gatherings and receptions.

First Eucharist

Eucharist is the sacrament that completes the initiation process by welcoming the baptized to the Table of the Lord to receive Christ's Body and Blood. In this sacrament we remember the action of Jesus at the Last Supper when he blessed and broke the bread and shared it with his disciples. The Eucharist is an act of thanksgiving which is celebrated in communion with one another, most often at the weekend liturgy.

At St. Anthony's, the celebration of First Eucharist is a special time in the faith life of children, age seven and older, and their families. Families prepare for this sacrament with ongoing support from the parish that includes reflection, rituals, retreat and home study.

First Reconciliation

Reconciliation is the sacrament that celebrates the forgiving love of God. It is called the sacrament of reconciliation because through it we acknowledge and confess our sins and are reconciled to both God and one another.

Preparation for First Reconciliation involves children in grades two and above along with their families. The parish provides ongoing support that includes reflection, rituals, retreat and home study. Registration takes place in the fall.

First Eucharist and First Reconciliation Preparation Committee

This new parent committee assists with the arrangements for a Family Day as well as other activities for the children involved with First Reconciliation and Eucharist preparation. Creativity and participation by all is most welcome!

Marriage Ministry

The purpose of the Marriage Ministry is to prepare engaged couples for a strong Catholic Christian marriage. The team's goal is to also provide support to all marriages through periodic enrichment opportunities.