Faith Formation
Religious Education for Children
Overview of Children’s Faith Formation
and First Sacraments
St. Anthony Parish, 2011-2012
Children’s RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, Adapted for Children)
is a process for children and youth ages 7-16 who desire to celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist). Full initiation (all 3 sacraments) is celebrated at the Easter Vigil. This is a 1 to 2 year process. Inquiry sessions are offered twice yearly for children wishing to begin preparation. The emphasis is on active participation in parish life, including Mass each Sunday, followed by a learning session for children and parents (or sponsors). Also, those who were baptized in a different Christian Community (non-Catholic) prepare for First Reconciliation and Eucharist through the RCIA program. For registration information call Jane Wraith, 425-277-6201. Parents of children older than seven who have not been baptized should contact Jane Wraith about RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, Adapted for Children). Families with upper-elementary age children who have not received their First Communion may also talk with Jane about the best program for their family.
Infant Baptism
(birth through age 6) If your child is 6 or younger and hasn’t been baptized, please contact Mike Borte, 425-277-6205, for information about parent preparation.
How do we prepare for our child’s First Reconciliation and First Communion?
Preparation for sacraments begins at home with family prayer and regular Mass attendance. St. Anthony provides several excellent opportunities for Children’s Faith Formation. There are programs for your child beginning at age three. Registration forms are available now at the Parish ministry Center or after Masses beginning September 10. If you did not attend any program of Faith Formation in 2010-11 and are not registered for St. Anthony School, you will need to apply for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, or the We Believe program (Wednesday evenings), and apply NEXT YEAR for Sacramental Preparation.
• St. Anthony Catholic School (K-8)
has thirty classroom teachers and specialists, with a large staff of playground, extended-day and lunchroom supervisors, instructional aides, custodians and office staff. 500 students participate in a quality academic program, featuring a variety of prayer experiences, state-of-the-art technology, a well-developed arts and athletic program, and support/enrichment programs. For information about registration go to School's web site or call 425-255-0059.
• Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
is a Roman Catholic formation process for children ages 3 through 12 in which they experience and nurture an authentic faithful relationship with God, in a prepared space called the atrium. CGS is grounded in scriptural and liturgical study, using the Montessori Method. Children “hear” scripture through both the reading of text and the use of hands-on materials. In the same way, elements of Catholic liturgy are presented and understood through the prayers of the mass and use of sensorial materials. Other topics include prayer, biblical geography, and the sacraments. For registration information call Lynne Shioyama, 425-277-6200.
• We Believe
parent/child program for elementary school families (call Andrea King 425-277-6206) NOTE: This program was previously called “Finding God.” Any elementary student may sign up for the We Believe program, which is especially appropriate for children who go to public school. The primary focus is the two years of preparation for sacraments. Excellent grade-level books called We Believe are supplemented by a variety of family-friendly learning activities. Parents are required to attend each session with their child. Brothers and sisters are welcome! For registration information call Andrea King, 425-277-6206 or download the application form. See a preview and find many free activities at http://www.sadlierreligion.com/webelieve.
• Catecismo and RCIA in Spanish
for preschool through high school families (call Dulce Casanova 425-277-6217). NOTE: Bilingual children (English/Spanish) may prepare for their sacraments in either the English or the Spanish program.
• RICA (Rito de la Iniciación Cristiano de Adultos, Adaptado para Niños) en español Catecismo y RICA en español son programas para familias que prefieren preparar para los sacramentos usando materiales bilingües. Niños y jóvenes—Sábado o Domingo. Adultos—Sábado. Por más información llámale a Dulce Casanova 425-277-6217 o a Andrea King 425-277-6206.
• Sacramental Preparation
(for First Reconciliation and First Communion) begins after the child has had at least one year of Faith Formation. Please include documentation of your child’s first year of faith formation. During the second year, in addition to their chosen Faith Formation program, the family attends four preparatory sessions for First Reconciliation and four preparatory sessions for First Communion in May. For registration information call Andrea King 425-277-6206. Download application form.
• SONshine Days
(Vacation Bible School) The last week of June children from all programs (ages 4-11) gather for a week of learning and fun! Youth older than 11 are invited to help adult leaders.
For more information please call the Office of Faith Formation at 425-255-3132
St.Anthony Parish, 314 S 4th St. Renton, WA 98055; 425-255-3132