Faith Formation
Programs for Children |
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Sacraments |
• Preschool & Kindergarten
We recognize that children from ages 3 to 6 are at a special
time to learn about God. We offer many opportunities for children
to explore their innate sense of the sacred and the joy of
a Catholic community excited about loving God and each other.
We use the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program, a Montessori-based
program that uses hands-on learning materials and focuses
on the individual child.
Preschool/Kindergarten classes are offered Wednesday evenings from 6:00 - 7:15 at St. Thomas and Wednesday mornings at Blessed Sacrament.
• Elementary
Using the “Call to Faith” series of textbooks, children
in grades 1 to 6 learn the basic beliefs of their Catholic faith,
grow to know and love God through prayer and worship, and explore
how to live Christian lives. Classes are at the St. Thomas campus
on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 - 7:15.
• Junior High
Junior high students need not only to learn about God and their
faith, but also to relate it directly to their lives through
discussion and service. Children in Grades 7 and 8 explore their
faith on Wednesday evenings from 7:15 to 8:30 at the St. Thomas
the Apostle campus.
• Senior High/Confirmation
Students in grades 9 and 10 spend two years preparing for the
sacrament of Confirmation by delving in to the “Nuts and
Bolts” of Catholicism. Our catechist team tackles the
questions teens have about the church, Mass, prayer, moral and
social issues, while making class time enriching and fun! Sr.
High students also participate in a variety of service projects,
retreats, Youth Mass and parish functions arranged by the team.
Classes take place from 7:15 to 8:30 on the St. Thomas the Apostle
campus.
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Baptism
Parents requesting baptism for their child are required to
attend a baptism preparation session prior to baptism, which
is celebrated once a month at weekend masses. For more information,
please contact Marla at 651-735-3707.
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First Reconciliation
The First Reconciliation Program is designed for children
in 2nd grade and above. A parent meeting is held in late
October to explain the process of preparing children to
receive the sacrament individually, ending in a First
Reconciliation Service in January.
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First Eucharist
The First Eucharist program recognizes the important role
of parents in preparing their child for this grace-filled
sacrament. Parents of children grades 2 and above are invited
to begin this process by attending a parent meeting in January,
leading to the celebration of First Eucharist in early May.
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Confirmation
Confirmation preparation begins in grade 9, culminating in
Confirmation in grade 10. Outreach, personal faith growth
and initiation into parish life are emphasized. Candidates
participate in Parish Rites, community and Parish Ministries,
a retreat, weekly monthly sessions, parent and sponsor meetings.
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RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation
for Children)
This process is used for Christian initiation of children
(ages 6 and up) who were not baptized as infants. Please call
Joy Hoffman for more information at 651-735-3707.
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Children’s Programs During Sunday 10:30 Mass
On Sundays at 10:30 Mass, we offer childcare in the Nursery (children
ages 1—5 years) and Children’s Liturgy of the Word
(children aged 4—Grade 4).
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Holiday Fun and Special Events
Check back soon for a list of upcoming events! |
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 Summer
Programs
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Vacation Bible School
All children ages 3 years old through fifth grade are invited
to a week of encountering Jesus through games, crafts, music,
and skits. Youth in sixth grade and up are welcome to participate
as leaders and helpers.
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Summer Stretch
Summer Stretch is a program for our current 5th – 9th
graders, with opportunities for service in the morning and
recreational activities in the afternoon. It will takes place
in June and July, and ends with an entire day at Valleyfair
for the group.
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Catholic Youth Camp
Catholic Youth Camp is a great option for kids ages 7 –
17. Located on Big Sandy Lake in northern Minnesota, CYC gives
kids the chance to canoe, swim, learn archery, do crafts,
dance and sing, all in an atmosphere that helps them deepen
their relationship with God. Our church helps to pay fees
for St. Thomas kids with proceeds from wreath sales &
can recycling.
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