This formation process is designed for children and youth, age 7 and older, who have not been baptized in any Christian faith, or those coming to the Catholic faith from another Christian faith tradition, or those not formed in the Catholic faith.

     Most formation sessions normally meet on the 3rd Sunday of each month throughout the year from 9:45am to 11:30am.  These sessions are supplemented by having the children also participating in either the Regular Sunday or Family Model Religious Formation sessions.  This is a two year process where those who have not been baptized will ultimately receive the 3 Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil in their 2nd year if discerned to be ready by parents and the initiation team.

• Unbaptized – 1 year of Inquiry with RCIC; placed in age appropriate catechist led session or Family Model. 2nd year enter into the Rites with the adults – Rite of Acceptance – normally in September, Rite of Sending – last Sunday of Ordinary Time before start of Lent. Rite of Election – last Saturday of Ordinary Time just before the 1st Sunday of Lent; Scrutinies – 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays of Lent; attend the Triduum, Holy Saturday day of reflection at 10am, Easter Vigil. Period of Mystagogy – to be determined. Attend the Sacramental prep with our regular children preparing for First Communion.

• Baptized in another faith tradition – 1 year of Inquiry with RCIC; placed in age appropriate catechist led formation or Family Model. 2nd year enter into the Rites with adults – Rite of Welcoming – normally in September, Rite of Continuing Conversion – 2nd Sunday of Lent (profession of faith). Attend the Sacramental prep with our children preparing for First Communion and will receive First Reconciliation and First Communion following a "Profession of Faith".

• Baptized as a Catholic, but not formed in their faith – 1 year of Inquiry with RCIC; placed in age appropriate catechist led formation. 2nd year participate in Sacramental preparation with the children preparing for First Communion.

For more information or to schedule an interview contact Carlene Clark, Assistant to the Director, at carlene@stmark-parish.org or 479-9897.