What To Expect
St. James Children’s Formation prepares students in Elementary School (Kindergarten-5th grade) for a relationship with Christ. Each year builds upon the last as children learn to walk with Jesus.
The cost is $250 per disciple in the making. (early bird rate of $230 until 6/30, non-parishioner rate of $300) Catechists receive free tuition and Tuition Assistance is available for families in need. Please contact Bethany Larson [email protected]
Children’s Formation Options:
NEW for 2024-2025! SUMMER INTENSIVE:
As an alternative to our traditional weekly Religious Education program, the Summer Intensive is a two-week program taking place Monday-Friday, June 10 – 21, 2024 from 9:00am-2:00pm. It is open to students entering 3rd-5th grade in Fall 2024 who have already received the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. As part of Children’s Formation, children enrolled in the Summer Intensive are invited to our monthly Family Faith Nights and Encounter events throughout the year.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION:
Religious Education meets Tuesday afternoons at 4:30pm-5:45pm -or- 6:30pm-7:45pm with classes beginning in September and ending in April. The Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion are typically received in 2nd grade. These sacraments require a two-year preparation period. We welcome students in older grade levels to receive the Sacraments if they were unable to receive in 2nd grade. Older Sacrament Students will complete their grade level formation in-person in addition to at-home study for Reconciliation and Eucharist Preparation.
FAMILY FORMATION (homeschool):
We understand that the classroom model is not ideal for all families. We offer a homeschool option at the same cost for those who prefer at-home learning. Homeschool families are encouraged to attend our monthly Family Faith Nights and Encounter events throughout the year.
Program Highlights:
Family Faith Nights & Service Opportunities
Throughout the year we sponsor Family Faith Nights where the whole family is encouraged to join us for an evening of engaging formation during Advent and Lent. Additionally, our families are invited to our monthly Encounter events where we come together to build community over dinner, to grow in faith through talks and activities, and to take time in prayer with praise and worship.
Through Religious Education, we encourage our community to live their faith in service to others through student-led service projects. Past projects have included fundraising for Foundation for Children in Need, a food and clothing drive for PADS, Project Linus, and Feed My Starving Children.
Open Doors Ministry:
Open Doors provides faith formation for individuals and families with special needs. This includes adaptive programming and inclusion to prepare children in need of accommodations for the Sacraments.
We welcome all learners and seek to offer access to our Faith for everyone. You can register for Open Doors through the Religious Education Registration Form. If you have any questions, contact: Kathryn Coughlin [email protected]
Jr. Ambassadors
Jr. Ambassadors is a NEW! Club for all Children of St. James to practice their faith in service to others and as an example of our Catholic faith to everyone. With monthly meetings, Jr. ambassadors act as representatives and promoters of our faith while learning about the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy and Catholic Social Teaching.
Volunteer Opportunity:
Do you feel called to serve as a classroom catechist? To volunteer as a hall monitor or other support? To be an Open Doors Mentor? Do you want to help but are not sure how or in what capacity? Please contact Bethany Larson to learn more and get connected to our vibrant community of disciples in the making or fill out the form here. All catechists will receive free tuition, training, and ongoing support in the classroom. We welcome you to the team!
Any questions or concerns, please contact:
Bethany LarsonCoordinator of Children’s Formation224-345-7152[email protected]