Children
For questions or inquiries about the Tri-Community Children’s Faith Formation program, please contact Sr. Patricia King, FMA at (719) 633-8711 ext. 104 or e-mail pking@tricommunity.org.
Children's classes are held on Wednesdays during the school year, 4:30-5:45 p.m.
Each child who comes into this world is a unique gift from God. Working as a team, parents and representatives of the Faith Formation group together have the responsibility to guide and direct our children as they are being formed to become good Christians and honest citizens. Our ministry reflects that of the Church. We are committed to providing an environment in which the faith becomes an integral part of life; a community where all have a role to play in a journey of holiness, marked by joy, sharing and dedication, nourished by the Eucharist and trust in Mary. The gift given by God is a responsibility accepted by all who love these children and want the best for them.
Through our Faith Formation Program we seek to:
- Assist parents in their primary faith responsibilities for their children;
- Provide a joyful and loving environment where children can learn that holiness consists in doing the right thing, at the right time, for the love of God;
- Lead students to develop a deeper and more personal relationship with Jesus, and to participate actively in the parish faith community and its sacramental life;
- Help students form a moral conscience rooted in Gospel discipleship;
- Foster student and parent awareness and create opportunities for Gospel Service to those in need.
Faith Formation Classes
Faith Formation classes for children (Pre-K-Grade 5) are held weekly, September through May, on Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m.–5:45 p.m. There are also special family sessions during the year. Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)—Adapted for Children
Children (ages 7-11) who are interested in joining the Catholic Church are invited to participate in the RCIA adapted for children. The goal is to provide a means of conversion suited to the children’s age and understanding, and to prepare them for the reception of the Sacraments of Christian Initiation (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation). Parents and sponsors share a loving journey with the children, attending classes with them and assisting them as they learn about Jesus and the Church, and ensuring that they experience a Catholic environment at home. To participate more fully in this journey, all join in parish ritual celebrations, including the Easter Vigil.Classes begin in September and are held on Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m.-5:45 pm. Parent sessions are scheduled by appointment
Sacramental Preparation
Sacramental Preparation in the Tri-Community is a combined effort of teachers, catechists, priests, parents and students. To provide for the best possible preparation, it is a two-year program.A child must attend first and second grade to receive First Communion in Grade 2. Preparation includes classroom instruction (or parent-led instruction for children in the Home Study Program), parent sessions, meetings between parents and a parish staff member, and a family retreat. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated in a communal service at the beginning of Advent. First Eucharist is celebrated during the Easter season. Approaching these sacraments through both the home and the parish family forms a bond in the minds and hearts of the children.
Older children who have not received the sacraments are invited to contact Sr. Patricia for information.
Home Study Program
Parents who wish to personally provide instruction for their child may choose home-based catechesis—a cooperative effort between the child, parents, and parish leaders to provide catechetical instruction in the environment of a Catholic home. The parish provides approved catechetical materials, instruction at Parent Meetings, and includes Home Study families in parish catechetical program activities. Families meet with the Coordinator of Children’s Faith Formation four times a year to share experiences and to review the material covered. Evaluation to discern the child’s readiness is a joint effort.Catechists and Volunteers
In providing the Faith Formation program for children, dedicated catechists and volunteers are credible witnesses of a welcoming and friendly Christian community. Prospective catechists attend the diocesan Catechist Formation program to receive certification. Requirements for catechists and volunteers include an interview with the Coordinator of Children’s Faith Formation, references, CBI background check, and Safe Environment Training.Please consider sharing in the faith formation of our children. If you would be interested in becoming a catechist, contact Sr. Patricia for additional information.