St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Faith Formation Programs for Children
Director of Evangelization and Faith Formation
Jane Ann Becicka
Contact Jane Ann Becicka by email, jbecicka@stsdsm.com or call 515-279-4654 ext. 304.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
We are excited to announce that Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is coming to St. Theresa! Through a generous grant from The Catholic Foundation of Southwest Iowa our parish is able to offer this faith formation program for our young learners aged 3-6 years old beginning this fall. This Montessori approach assists children to cultivate a living relationship with Jesus, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and to God the Father. In a calm, nurturing environment, children encounter Jesus in scripture, song and prayer. The class environment, called an atrium, is designed to draw children into the mystery of the Incarnation, Jesus’ role in Salvation, and the connection among themselves, The Good Shepherd, Holy Mass and the Eucharist.
WFF – Wednesday Faith Formation
WFF is offered to children in grades 2-5. O.C.I.A for children is offered as needed.
CLW- Children’s Liturgy of the Word
Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLW) answers the call to share Scripture with children on their level of understanding. September 7 – April 26, at the Sunday 10:30 a.m. Mass children ages 4-8 are invited to participate in CLW. Children are called forward for a blessing before going with catechists to the parish hall west meeting room to hear, discuss and plan how they can live the gospel message. Children return to their pews during the offertory. Parents or an older sibling are invited to attend with their child. No registration is required.
FIRST RECONCILIATION
Preparation for First Reconciliation takes place in the fall of the second-grade year. Preparation focuses on family, peers and community involvement and liturgical catechesis where children and adults learn about sin, conversion, and God’s mercy and forgiveness through symbol and ritual. Parents are required to attend a one-hour meeting held in the Fall. Parents and children attend learning stations prior to the celebration of First Reconciliation which takes place in November. Children must receive this sacrament before receiving the Eucharist for the first time.
FIRST EUCHARIST
Preparation for First Eucharist takes place in second grade after the celebration of First Reconciliation. As with First Reconciliation, family, peers and community are involved. The focus centers on Eucharist as a sacrament of initiation, the prayers, signs and symbols of Mass, and the call to service. parents are required to attend a meeting, which is sometime after Christmas break. Parents and children attend learning stations prior to the celebration of First Eucharist, which usually takes place in May.