Answer: Your children’s formation in our faith begins at birth and continues throughout their lives. It is your responsibility as a parent to raise your children to be faithful Catholics, which you promised at their baptism.
But what about our parish Children’s Faith Formation program? “Formally,” we being with First Grade, about age 6, and continue until Eighth Grade. We help prepare children for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
But how many years are “required” for these sacraments? “Required” is a word packed with meaning and, sometimes, with negative connotations. In order to excel in playing an instrument or a sport, a certain amount of instruction and coaching is necessary. If you skimp on this, or not practice, then you may not become the musician or athlete you are hoping to become or achieve the level you were meant to reach.
In order to prepare for Reconciliation and Eucharist, the Diocese of Metuchen says at least two years of instruction is necessary. This is usually first and second grade. To prepare for Confirmation, when your child will become a full member of the Catholic Church, the Diocese says more coaching is necessary. This is accomplished in Grades 3-8, with Confirmation celebrated at the end of eighth grade. If your child is not enrolled in our program, or if other accommodations are not made (e.g. attendance in a Catholic School or similar program), then they will have to take another path to receive these sacraments, and may not receive them at the “usual” ages with their peers.
So, what can a parent do to make sure their children and family benefit from all our formation program have to offer? IF YOUR CHILD IS ENTERING FIRST GRADE THIS FALL, PLEASE REGISTER THEM NOW FOR RELIGIOUS FORMATION IN SEPTEMBER 2021. There is info on our website, www.blessedsacramentnj.org, or you can email [email protected].
IF YOUR CHILDREN HAVE CELEBRATED FIRST RECONCILIATION AND FIRST COMMUNION, PLEASE MAKE SURE THEY ARE RE-REGISTERED FOR NEXT YEAR. Again, check our website for more info. IF YOUR CHILD IS ENTERING GRADE 2 OR HIGHER THIS FALL IN SCHOOL AND HAS NOT YET CELEBRATED RECONCILIATION OR EUCHARIST, PLEASE CONTACT US NOW TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THEM TO RECEIVE THESE SACRAMENTS.
We are here to walk beside you and your family as your children grow in faith. We will do whatever is needed for your family to make this work. If you have a special family situation, a child with special needs, or other circumstances that may present a challenge, please let us know asap.
May God bless us all in our efforts to bring His little ones to Him!
Mary Foy, MPS, Director, Children’s Faith Formation