Faith Formation Programs & Grades

Our program helps families grow together in faith through learning, prayer, and active participation in parish life.

Faith formation is a shared effort between the parish, catechists, and families.
Parents are the first teachers of faith in the home, the “domestic church," and we partner with you to build on that foundation.

Faith formation begins at home and continues through the life of the parish.
No matter which Religious Education program your child is enrolled in, families are asked to take an active role in nurturing faith throughout the year.

We ask families to:

• Attend weekly Mass together.

• Participate in family faith events, such as Family Masses and seasonal activities (Advent, Lent, and Easter).

• Support learning at home by reviewing lessons and praying together.

• Volunteer at least once during the year to support the program in some way.

These shared experiences help children see that faith is not just learned, it’s lived, as a natural and joyful part of daily life.

Our school-year program runs from September through May and follows a weekly class schedule.
Classes are held in the school building at Our Lady of Sorrows on:

• Sunday: 9:30 - 10:45 AM

• Wednesday: 6:00 - 7:15 PM
  (Not all grades meet at every time; see below for the grades overview and the schedule on the Registration page.)

Each week, students learn about Scripture, prayer, and the sacraments while exploring what it means to live as followers of Jesus in daily life. Lessons include discussion, activities, and opportunities for service and reflection.

Our Summer Intensive Program provides the same curriculum as the school-year program, condensed into a two-week session. This intensive format allows students to focus on their faith in a dedicated setting, while freeing up the rest of the year for family and parish life.

After completing the summer session, students stay connected by:

• Attending weekly Mass

• Participating in three seasonal sessions (Advent, Lent, and Easter)

• Continuing faith at home through family prayer and discussion

Open to Grades 1 - 8.

For more information visit the Summer Intensive Page or Registration Page

We’re excited to share that Vacation Bible Camp will be returning to Our Lady of Sorrows - St. Anthony Parish in Summer 2026!

Bible Camp is a joyful week for younger children to discover God’s love through Bible stories, crafts, games, and music. It’s a time filled with laughter, learning, and friendship as children grow in faith together.

More details and registration information will be available as we get closer to Summer 2026.
Visit the Bible Camp page for updates.

Each grade in our Religious Education Program builds upon the last, helping children grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith and their relationship with God. Our curriculum guides students from learning about God’s love to living their faith actively in everyday life.

Grade Placement

Children are generally enrolled in Religious Education based on their school grade.
If your child has not yet received a sacrament (such as First Communion or Confirmation) and is older than the typical preparation year, please contact the Religious Education Office before registering.

We’ll work with your family to place your child in the appropriate class or sacramental preparation program.

Grades 1 & 2: Foundations of Faith
Students learn about God’s love, prayer, kindness, and what it means to belong to the family of God.
Second grade is a special year focused on preparing for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.
➡️ Learn more about First Reconciliation & Communion

Grades 3 - 6: Growing in Faith
These years help children strengthen their faith through Scripture, the sacraments, and the teachings of the Church. Students learn how to live their faith in daily life; at home, in school, and in their community.

Grade 7: Confirmation Preparation - Year 1
Students begin preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation by learning about the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, exploring the lives of the saints, and completing service projects that reflect Christ’s love.
➡️ Learn more about Confirmation Year 1

Grade 8: Confirmation Preparation - Year 2
This year completes preparation for Confirmation.
Students deepen their understanding of the Holy Spirit, moral decision-making, and what it means to live as active members of the Catholic Church.
➡️ Learn more about Confirmation Year 2