Children's Faith Formation
Saint Thomas Aquinas offers religious education classes for parish children from Kindergarten (5 years old) through 8th grade. Classes are conducted weekly from mid-September through early May on Sundays from 9:30-10:45 am. Volunteer catechists provide students with a thorough presentation of Catholic teaching, beliefs, and practices. Registration begins in mid-August and is possible all year long.
Please find registration information here
We desire to meet the needs of every student enrolled. For families with children who are older and who have not yet received formal religious instruction, classes can be organized according to the needs of the students each year, with instruction on the fundamentals of our faith and specific sacramental preparation. Generally, our curriculum is structured as follows:
Why should your child attend CCD?
CCD can be valuable in helping you fulfill the commitment that you made at your child’s baptism “of training them in the practice of the faith.” CCD is not a replacement of Mass for children of school age; rather, it is a supplement to the religious education received at home, especially in instances where children attend public school or are home schooled.
Why should your child attend Mass?
All children are expected to attend weekly Sunday Mass. As Catholics, Mass is the most important part of our week. Going to weekly Sunday Mass is more important than any sport, activity or CCD class itself. At Mass, we gather as a community to worship God, we are forgiven of minor sins, we hear God’s Word, and most importantly we receive Christ in the Eucharist. Each week, we attend Mass to receive the gift of God’s grace to be able to live a faith-filled Christian life throughout the week. Students learn of the importance of Mass and worshipping God throughout the year in CCD classes; Mass needs to be a part of their weekly lives in order for this instruction to make sense.
Care to be involved even more?
Nothing is more important than the example that you as a parent give to your children and the faith that you share with them. We would love to have you share your faith in a larger sense by volunteering as a catechist, aide, or hall monitor in our CCD program. No previous experience is necessary; we will provide you with all the materials and guidance you need to be successful. Please call the parish office for further information.