Teen Faith Formation (Grades 6-12)
Sunday Evenings: 6-8pm

Our Teen Faith Formation program at the Catholic Church of St. Mark is designed to help youth in grades 6–12 grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith and develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Guided by the teachings of the Church and the Diocese of Richmond, this program supports teens as they navigate the challenges of adolescence with faith, purpose, and community. Through engaging discussions, Scripture, prayer, service opportunities, and age-appropriate catechesis, teens are invited to explore what it means to live as disciples in today’s world. We focus on helping them form a strong moral foundation, deepen their understanding of the sacraments, and recognize their unique gifts as members of the Body of Christ. Teen faith formation also encourages authentic friendships and a sense of belonging within the Church. Our goal is to help each young person become more rooted in the Word, nourished by the sacraments, and guided by the Holy Spirit as they continue their journey of faith.

 

Online Registration for the 2025-2026 Formation Year is Now Closed

Click here to view the 2025-2026 Calendar

Sacramental Preparation: Confirmation At the Catholic Church of St. Mark, the Sacrament of Confirmation is a vital step in a young person’s journey of faith. Rooted in the grace of Baptism, Confirmation strengthens the gifts of the Holy Spirit and more fully unites the individual to the life and mission of the Church. Our Confirmation preparation follows a two-year process. The pre-Confirmation year is a foundational formation year, during which teens participate in our regular faith formation program to deepen their understanding of Scripture, prayer, Catholic teaching, and what it means to live as a disciple of Christ. The second year is dedicated to immediate sacramental preparation, including focused sessions on the meaning of Confirmation, the role of the Holy Spirit, choosing a sponsor, selecting a Confirmation saint, and living out one’s faith as a confirmed Catholic. Teens also participate in service experiences, a retreat, and parish-wide celebrations that mark their journey. Throughout the process, parents and sponsors are essential partners. Families are invited to support their teens through prayer, conversation, and active participation in key moments of the preparation. Confirmation is not just a “completion” of initiation—it is a commissioning. Through this sacrament, teens are empowered to live boldly as witnesses to Christ and to use their gifts to serve the Church and the world.

The 2025-2026 Confirmation session dates
            • Confirmation Orientation – September 25
            • Confirmation Preparation Session 1 – October 9
            • Confirmation Preparation Session 2 – November 13
            • Confirmation Preparation Session 3 – December 11
            • Rite of Recognition Mass – TBD
            • Confirmation Preparation Session 4 – January 8
            • Confirmation Retreat – January 31
            • Confirmation Preparation Session 5 – February 12
            • Reconciliation Session 6 – TBD
            • Confirmation – TBD
            • Mystagogy Session – TBD

Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIA: Adapted for Children and Teens) Welcoming Children and Youth into the Catholic FaithThe Order of Christian Initiation for Adults – Adapted for Children and Teens (OCIA: Adapted) is a formation process for children and youth, age 7 and older, who are:

  • Unbaptized and seeking to enter the Catholic Church,
  • Baptized in another Christian tradition and seeking full communion, or
  • Baptized Catholic but have not received formal catechesis or the sacraments appropriate for their age.

OCIA: Adapted for Children and Teen sessions designed to prepare them for the sacraments of initiation—Baptism (if needed), Confirmation, and First Eucharist. Session structure and scheduling are based on the number and ages of children and youth participating. This journey is one of prayer, learning, and community, and it involves the support and active participation of parents or guardians, who walk alongside their children in faith.

 

 

About MARKed Generation

MARKed Generation is the youth group of St. Mark, created for teens to grow in faith, build meaningful friendships, and make a real impact through service. Rooted in Joshua 1:9, we encourage young people to live boldly and courageously for Christ. We meet once a month for fun, faith-filled gatherings that include prayer, discussion, and service opportunities. Confirmed teens are invited to take on leadership roles and help guide the group as Youth Leaders.

 

Whether you’re new or returning, there’s a place for you here — come join the movement! The MARKed Generation meets the 4th Saturday of every month after the 530p Mass          

 

 

 

Volunteer Catechists: A Vital Part of Our Faith Formation

At the Catholic Church of St. Mark, we believe that sharing the faith is one of the most important callings of our community. Volunteer catechists play a critical role in guiding the next generation of Catholics, helping children, youth, and adults deepen their relationship with Christ, understand the teachings of the Church, and grow in their spiritual lives. Catechists are more than teachers—they are spiritual leaders, mentors, and role models who live out the faith through their words and actions. By volunteering as a catechist, you help create a welcoming, engaging environment where our young people can come to know God’s love and grace. Your work is not only about imparting knowledge but about fostering a love for God, nurturing a sense of belonging, and inspiring others to live out their faith in daily life. We also encourage teens in our parish to become Junior Catechists or Teen Catechist Assistants. This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to live out their baptismal call to serve, grow in leadership, and share their faith with younger children. Teen catechists serve alongside adult leaders, offering support during lessons, helping with activities, and becoming positive role models for the next generation of disciples. Whether you are an adult or a teen, no prior experience is needed—just a willing heart, a love for the faith, and a commitment to walking with others on their journey. Training, support, and resources are provided for all volunteers. If you feel called to serve as a catechist CLICK HERE to fill out the Volunteer form for adults. CLICK HERE to fill out our 18 and under Volunteer Form.

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