christian formation
St. Mary Magdalene’s Christian Formation Program continues the mission of Jesus Christ through catechetical ministry. It embraces the young members of our parish by providing an inclusive program that responds to the spiritual, intellectual, social and psychological needs of our youth. The Christian Formation Program assists parents in forming their children to be Disciples of Christ.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that “education in the faith by parents should begin in the child’s earliest years. Family catechesis precedes, accompanies, and enriches other forms of instruction in the faith. Parents have the mission of teaching their children to pray and to discover their vocation as children of God.” (CCC 2226) We are here to partner with and support parents in this important role.
The theme for the 2023-2024 School Year
Mary, Mother of God
Weekly Class Program
Classes meet once a week. Children are placed in classes by their grade and age. Classes are offered for students in K5 through grade 10, High school Confirmation, and Introductory classes for grades 2 – 10. See the 2023-24 calendar below for our schedule.
FAMILY-BASED PROGRAM
Parents, you can be more involved in your child’s religious education! You can become their catechist, their teacher! Now, Don’t worry, we’re here for you. This is how it works…
We provide you with the needed materials (books, website access, etc.) and virtual assistance to cover the grade level material for your child(ren). We will come together three required times over the school year, parents and children, for faith-based activities.
FORMATION AND SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION PROGRAMS
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K5 - 6TH GRADE
TE: Tuesday Early, 4:30-5:45 p.m.
WE: Wednesday Early, 4:30 - 5:45 p.m.
WL: Wednesday Late, 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.
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7TH - 10TH GRADE
SUN: Sunday 9:15 - 10:45 a.m.
TL: Tuesday Late, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
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INTRO GRADE 2 - 10
SUN: Sunday 11:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
This session is ONLY for first-year students in need of the sacrament of Baptism and/or First Communion.
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First Communion and Reconciliation
Students in 2nd grade or higher who are enrolling in our program will be required to attend classes for two school years, with the reception of the sacrament at the end of the second year.
For additional information contact Formation@smmcc.org.
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Confirmation - a continuation of a lifelong journey with Christ
Only students who have completed two consecutive years of Christian Formation classes between 7th and 10th grade may enroll for Confirmation Preparation.
Once the above requirements are met, contact Formation@smmcc.org for more information.
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TUITION
Formation Classes:
$50 for one student, $90 for two and $125 for three or more. -
Little Margaret Program
Catechetical Program for Children with Special Needs
For more information, contact the Office of Christian Formation at formation@smmcc.org.
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Vacation Bible School
Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a one-week, super-charged Bible adventure program intentionally designed to connect children to God and provide them with actionable ways to share God’s love with others.
Visit our Vacation Bible School page to see what’s coming in June!
Volunteer
We rely on volunteer catechists to accompany our youth on their journey of faith and to nurture their personal relationship with Jesus. If you would like more information or would like to volunteer, please contact the Office of Christian Formation at cindyr@smmcc.org.
Registration
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Christian Formation Classes - K5 - 10th Grade and Intro Classes
The 2023-2024 Christian Formation Classes are now in session.
You must be a registered parishioner in order to register your child(ren) for Formation Classes.
Contact the Office of Christian Formation to register your child.
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Confirmation
Only students who have completed two consecutive years of Christian Formation classes between 7th and 10th grade may enroll for Confirmation Preparation.
Once the above requirements are met, contact us for more information.
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Vacation Bible School