Welcome to Middle School Faith Formation

Grades 7 & 8 | Saint Mary’s Parish

Alive in Christ – Discovering the Life You Were Made For

A Deeper Calling for a Critical Time

One of the great treasures of our Catholic Faith is that through the Sacrament of Baptism, each of us becomes a living tabernacle—God Himself dwelling within us. He gives us His grace, calling us to a life of goodness, holiness, and joy. “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)

But many young people today are struggling. In a world marked by confusion, loneliness, and spiritual emptiness, our adolescents are too often pulled away from Christ—and from the Church. They long for truth. They hunger for purpose. And they need more than just “religious education.”

At this critical stage in their lives, our goal is to guide our students in a spiritual formation experience, rooted in the beauty, truth, and transformative joy of life in Jesus Christ. We want every young person to discover the magnificent life they were made for, and to grow into the disciples we are all called to be. 

About the Program

Weekly classes (75 minutes – one week off most months) meet on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s and include:

• Welcome, Prayer, and Community
• Teaching using Word of Life Series (Augustine Institute)
• Small group discussion and mentoring, grouped by gender
• Scripture, Devotional Prayer, Reflection, and Discipleship Challenges
• Integration of Sacred Art, Saints & Stories, and Scripture
• Focus on the rhythm and celebrations of the liturgical year.

Primacy of the Mass

Mass is the source and summit of our Catholic Faith; we strongly emphasize the importance of weekly Sunday Mass as a vital part of each student’s formation. Our Sunday morning schedule is designed to encourage families to participate together in the 11:00 a.m. Mass following class. Families are also welcome to attend any other weekend liturgy.

Parent Engagement

• Ongoing Parent Formation emails and meetings
• Family Formation Nights
• Optional Family Discipleship Track (info coming soon) for parents to lead formation at home

Special Experiences

Throughout the year, students may take part in:

• Sacred Art Visits and Creation Walks
• Service Projects and Outreach 
• Beauty & Devotion Nights 
• Middle School Fellowship Gatherings

Our Mission

To ignite and inspire the hearts and minds of our young people, and to help each one encounter Christ, be formed in His image, and grow into mature Catholic disciples—anchored in grace, alive in Faith, and ready to live their lives for Christ.

Registration is now open!

Visit the Religious Education page to learn more and register your child. Class calendar coming soon.