Faith Formation
Faith formation classes meet September through May from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. All class meet in the Boogaard Hall.
Our catechists are dedicated to helping parents hand-on the faith to our young people. In addition, we encourage catechists to complete the diocesan Pathways Certification Program which includes an introduction into the art of classroom teaching and guides them through their own personal spiritual growth.
In addition, we enforce the VIRTUS training and conduct background screenings on all our volunteers to ensure safety for all our children. We work hard to ensure each child is learning in a safe environment.
Registration Forms
English
Spanish
Sacramental Preparation
Baptism
Those wishing to have their children baptized should first make an appointment with Father Oscar Paraiso, pastor. Please contact Father Oscar at 757-778-5118 or [email protected].
Parents are to then call Lorraine Ryalls, Christian Formation Coordinator, at 804-843-3125 to schedule a preparation session.
Parents needing Spanish preparation, please contact Dan Gibbs at 757-342-1517 or [email protected] to schedule an appointment.
For information regarding the Godparent Attestation Form please use this link https://richmonddiocese.org/office/christian-formation/?tab=16 to the Diocesan website. Information and forms are printed in both English and Spanish.
Baptism Preparation for Children of Catechetical Age
The Church defines the age of reason to be seven years old. Children of this age or older are to be prepared for baptism following an age-appropriate RCIA model. The preparation process is to help the child understand the need for a relationship with Christ, being part of the Body of Christ and to follow Jesus’ command to love others through service.
This preparation is to be separate from regular religious education class time and time for prayer and reflection is incorporated. Effort should be made so that these children are fully initiated into the Catholic faith at the Easter Vigil as the process is designed the same as adults – reception of the three sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation).
First Penance and First Eucharist
Children are candidates for First Penance and First Eucharist at age 7 and in second grade. Preparation is a combined classroom/home experience that is separate from their usual religious formation lass and starts in the fall. Contact Lorraine Ryalls 804-843-3125 or [email protected] for more information.
Confirmation
Confirmation in our Diocese is celebrated at age 16 and/or in tenth grade. Classes begin each fall. For more information, please contact Lorraine Ryalls at 804-843-3125 or [email protected].
For information regarding the Sponsor Attestation Form, please use this link https://richmonddiocese.org/office/christian-formation/?tab=16 to the Diocesan website. Information and forms are printed in both English and Spanish.
Marriage Preparation
Couples should contact the pastor six months prior to the wedding date. Longer consideration should be given in the case of previous marriages that may need to go through the annulment process. In addition to meeting with the pastor, the couple is encouraged to attend an Engaged Encounter Weekend. The pastor must give permission for the celebration of the sacrament to take place in another parish or to have another priest officiate at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament.
Youth Ministry
Our Youth Group is for middle and high schoolers. Meetings are generally held on the first and third Sundays of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Boogaard Hall unless otherwise specified.
Our youth programs focus on spiritual, service and social activities. At times, we seek activities off campus (i.e. bowling, mini-golf, activities with other parishes) which require written permission of parents/guardian.
In addition to parish activities, we also encourage attendance at retreats, the diocesan youth conference and middle school rallies.
Leaders are VIRTUS trained and background checked.
Whole Community Catechesis
At least once per year we conduct an activity to involve all ages of our parish. We come together for prayer, learning and fellowship.
Adult Formation Opportunities
A bible study group meets on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. and Sunday mornings at 10:15 a.m. in the Mercy Center.. The class generally utilizes video courses by Ascension Press Publications.
The Young Adult group meets once per month for bible study at 10:15 a.m. in the Boogaard Hall.
Other opportunities are offered throughout the year. Watch for bulletin announcements.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
For those who wish to enter into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, we utilize the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process. Inquiry sessions (informal time to share stories, ask questions and learn basic beliefs of the Catholic Church) are followed by the Catechumenate which is a period of more formalized instruction.
The unbaptized are received into the Church at the Easter Vigil by the reception of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
Those who are already baptized in the Christian tradition are prepared to receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist when they discern, with the assistance of the pastor, sponsor and catechist, their readiness.
Those wishing to join the Catholic faith should contact) Lorraine Ryalls at 804-843-3125 or [email protected] regarding the process.
For information regarding the Sponsor Attestation Form, please use this link https://richmonddiocese.org/office/christian-formation/?tab=16 to the Diocesan website. Information and forms are printed in both English and Spanish.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word
During the Saturday and Sunday Mass times, children ages 2 (two year olds must be accompanied by an adult) through 2nd Grade are invited to participate in Children’s Liturgy of the Word. Dismissal is prior to the readings to allow the children to hear the Word read and explained on their level and pray Prayers of the Faithful. They re-join the assembly during the offertory.
Volunteer leaders are background checked and VIRTUS certified.
Altar Servers
Children must have received the Sacrament of First Eucharist to be eligible to serve. Training sessions are held throughout the year. Dates and times for training sessions will be published in the weekly bulletin.
Vacation Bible School
Each summer, we host a week-longVacationBibleSchoolfor children 3 years old through 6th grade. Sessions are held each evening. Curriculum includes bible lessons, crafts, games and music. Children in the community are welcome to attend as well.
Christmas Pageant
Each December, children have the opportunity to participate in the annual Christmas pageant. The pageant is usually scheduled for a Sunday evening prior to Christmas. Practices are held after class time on Sundays. Prior to the pageant, the parish hosts a covered dish dinner and the Bell Choir performs Christmas carols.
