Faith Formation at St. Mary's

The seeds of our faith in Jesus Christ are sown in baptism and are first nurtured in the domestic church, the home. 

Our parish operates a Catholic School.  At St. Mary's School, children from age 3 through Grade 8 learn about their faith in religion classes, through prayer and the sacraments, and by daily life in a Catholic community.

Second Grade, Ninth Grade, and Tenth Grade are special years for parish children and youth.  During those years, we prepare them for receiving sacraments.

We believe that the desire to know God and to grow in faith, hope, and love continues throughout life.  Adults are especially encouraged to participate in Faith Formation at St. Mary's.

Please read on for information about Faith Formation for adults, children, and youth at St. Mary's.

Generations of Faith

• Season Tickets are on sale now for Generations of Faith! 

• Children/Youth from Preschool - Grade 7 must register in advance (see below).

Generations of Faith is for all members of the parish, from Preschool (age 4) through Adult.  The six parish events this year will be about the first part of the Bible, the Old Testament.  We will not only learn the great stories of our faith, but how God continues to speak to us today through Sacred Scripture.

Schedule for "People of the Book: The Story of God and Us"

• September 15, 2010: In the Beginning

• October 13, 2010: The Gift of the Law

• November 10, 2010: A People are Formed

• January 12, 2011: A Royal People

• February 9, 2011: Wisdom and Psalms

• March 2, 2011: The Prophets

Events are on Wednesdays in St. Mary's Gym.  The program begins at 6:00 p.m. and ends at 8:00 p.m.  Part of the evening children/youth from Preschool (age 4) through Grade 7 are in separate learning sessions.  We will be taking attendance in these sessions this year.  Please register by September 1.

Children/youth age 13 and under must be accompanied by a parent to Generations of Faith.

Admission is $6 per household at the door, or just $5 if you purchase a Season Ticket in advance.  Admission covers the cost of supplies, learning materials, and speakers.  It does not include supper.

A delicious supper is served from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.  There is a suggested donation of $7.50 for Adults and $4 for Children.  It is a freewill offering.  Pay what you can afford.

  Click here to download a registration form.

Children's Liturgy of the Word

Ages 3 to 6

Children hear and learn about the Gospel in a way that is understandable for them.  Children come forward for a blessing before the Gospel is read and return after the homily.  At weekend Masses during the school year.

[Registration is not required.]

 

 

 

First Reconciliation and First Eucharist

Second Grade

Children and parents attend sessions together.  The children celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Advent, followed by First Eucharist during the Easter season.

There are three sessions to prepare for First Reconciliation in the fall.  There are four sessions to prepare for First Eucharist in the spring.  The sessions are from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday's.

Register by July 1, 2010:

 

Confirmation

Ninth Grade: Beginning in 2010-11, youth will begin preparing for Confirmation in Ninth Grade.  Youth and parents attend six sessions together (after Christmas), and an Evening of Reflection.

Tenth Grade: Confirmation is celebrated in the spring of Tenth Grade.  Youth choose an adult sponsor for this phase of their preparation.  Youth and sponsors attend six sessions during the year, and an Evening of Reflection.  There is also a 24-hour retreat for youth in the fall.

Register for Confirmation (Ninth and Tenth Grades) by July 1, 2010:

 

Preparing for the Sacraments

Parish Office: 507-725-3804

• Marriage and Baptism: Contact Fr. Gregory Leif
• First Reconciliation, First Eucharist, and Confirmation:  Contact Audrey Quanrud
• Becoming a member of the Catholic Church (Adults): Contact Sr. Michaeline Healy

St. Mary's School: 507-725-3355

• Preschool through Grade 8: Contact Tom Reichenbacher, Principal

PARISH MISSION

This year we will be welcoming back Fr. Jim Marchionda and John Angotti for a Parish Mission!  The dates of the Mission are January 30 and 31, and February 1, 2011.