At the Catholic Church of St. Mark, preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion is a sacred and meaningful time in a child’s faith journey. In keeping with diocesan guidelines and our parish mission, we recognize that readiness for the sacraments involves both learning and spiritual maturity. That’s why we partner closely with parents—the primary catechists of their children—to help discern and support their child’s readiness. Our sacramental preparation is a two-year process, beginning with a required year of foundational faith formation prior to the sacrament year. During this pre-sacramental year, children build a deeper understanding of God’s love, prayer, the Mass, and what it means to be part of the Church community. In the second year, children and their families participate in a focused preparation program that includes parent sessions, at-home activities, retreats, and special gatherings. Through these experiences, children grow in their relationship with Jesus and gain a clearer understanding of the sacraments they are preparing to receive. Parents can check the Readiness Guide below to help them reflect on their child’s understanding of forgiveness, grace, and the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. This guide supports open conversations at home and helps families grow together in faith. Receiving the sacraments is not just a milestone—it’s a step into deeper communion with Christ and His Church. We are honored to walk alongside your family during this important time.

 

 

Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIA: Adapted for Children and Teens) Welcoming Children and Youth into the Catholic Faith The 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.    

 

 

 

 

 

This ministry is for children ages 4 up to 1st Grade.   We meet during a portion of the 8:30am and 10:30am Mass on most Sundays during the year. The children go to Mass with their families, but before the First Reading they are called up to leave along with a teacher and parent helpers.  They go to the small chapel to have a lesson on the readings and Gospel, then return near the end of the homily.              

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.