Welcome to Faith Formation at St. Mary's of the Lake!
Faith Formation is a lifelong process which is centered around the Mass and Sacraments. At Baptism, each of us began our journey of faith—a journey that lasts a lifetime. We are called to ongoing formation, prayer and growth in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Thank you for allowing us to accompany you in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with your family and helping your children in the practice of the Catholic Faith!
Our Mission
Our mission is to inspire children and teens to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ through creative, relevant, and engaging programs. Recognizing that faith is rooted in relationships and begins at Baptism, we are committed to supporting each child on their lifelong journey of faith. We strive to provide age-appropriate, fun, and meaningful experiences, walking alongside families as they continue to deepen their connection to Christ.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word: Liturgical-based gospel messages are given to the youngest members of our church family. at the 10:15 AM Sunday Masses offered from September through May for ages 4-7. Children are able to hear and understand the scripture at their level. A collection of on-demand videos can be Found Here
Following Programs have Separate Registration that is required:
2025-2026 Pre-K through 7th Grade Formation Options
In Person Option: In Person Sessions are offered 2x a month on the 1st and 3rd Sunday morning of each month from 9:00-10:00am at St. Mary’s Of The Lake. (Note: No School on Monday = No Formation the Sunday before).
Family Based Option: This focuses on building up the family as the primary teacher of the faith. The program includes weekly at-home activities, along with monthly larger church occasions to pray, talk, and share faith experiences. Families gather once a month, on the last Sunday of the Month from 5:30-7:00pm (including a potluck meal).
- Registration Information Packet HERE
- Register for Faith Formation online HERE
- Download a Paper Registration Form HERE
- Pay Online: Click Here.
- Calendar of all Formation Dates HERE
- Walk & Carpool Permission Form: HERE
*Please Note: Programs run from September through June.
Vacation Bible School (VBS): VBS is a one-week program that takes place in the summer each year. Your kids will have a blast while every activity, Bible lesson, and song points them to Jesus. We welcome campers from Pre-K through 8th grade to join us. We also always welcome adult and high school volunteers to come, grow, and celebrate with us. Find out more HERE
Sacramental Preparation: Our Sacramental Preparation program is designed as a faith journey for kids, and their parents to take together. Preparation is waven into programs, Catholic school students should plan on attending.
First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion: Preparation usually begins in the Second Grade; however, we are happy to individualize a plan to meet the needs of an older child. First Reconciliation is scheduled in December and/or Janaury and First Communion is typically celebrated in late April and/or early May. Preparation for each Sacrament includes student sessions, parent meetings, family sessions, and at-home activities. If your child does not meet this expectation, or if your child is older than 2nd grade and has not received these sacraments, please email us at stmarysff@syrdio.org. We can help!
Confirmation: Confirmation preparation is a two-year program specified by our Diocese. Candidates entering 8th grade or higher in the Fall should plan on attending. Confirmation 1 (8th grade) takes place on Sunday mornings along side our Pre-K through 7th Grade program. Confirmation 2 (9th grade) is immediate preparation and will take place on the 1st Sunday evening of the month from 6:00-7:30 pm (including a potluck meal). Please note that each year includes a Yearly Retreat that will take place on November.
For more information about receiving the sacrament of Confirmation, CLICK HERE for more information
Volunteers: In order to provide Faith Formation for the children of our parish, we need teens, parents or young adults to volunteer each year who are willing to serve as catechists, substitute catechists, and hall monitors. The curriculum we use is easy to follow and provides lesson plans for every class. We will train and provide support to volunteers. For additional info or to volunteer, email us at stmarysff@syrdio.org.