Children and Youth | Cost of Formation | VBS | Adult Formation | OCIA | Formed | VIRTUS
At the Catholic Church of St. Mark, religious formation is more than education—it is a lifelong journey of faith, rooted in the Word, nourished by the sacraments, and guided by the Holy Spirit. Inspired by our parish mission, we are united in our desire to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and to live out our faith through service, learning, and community.
Formation at St. Mark begins in childhood and continues throughout life. We offer catechetical programs that help children encounter God and build a strong foundation in the Catholic faith. For youth and young adults, we provide opportunities to explore Scripture, the sacraments, and the call to live as Christ’s disciples in today’s world. Adult faith formation includes Bible studies, small groups, retreats, and other experiences that support ongoing spiritual growth and conversion.
As the Catechism teaches, “The whole Church is apostolic… all the faithful are called to live a life according to the gospel” (CCC 863). We believe that every person—regardless of age or stage of life—is called to deepen their relationship with Christ and to use their gifts to help build the Kingdom of God. Whether you are just beginning or seeking to grow further in your faith, our parish community is here to walk with you.
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). Join us as we grow together in faith, hope, and love.
Director of Religious Education: Mrs. Fe Guzman / email: [email protected]
Coordinator of Religious Education: Mrs. Nicole Brimer / email: [email protected]
Religious Formation for Children and Youth
Our formation curriculum provides children and youth, grades K thru 12, age appropriate content which is approved by our diocese. Formation classes span from September to May each year. Other programs and events are also held throughout the year.
Children’s Formation for Grades K through 5 are held on Sundays from 12:30pm until 1:30pm.
Teen Formation classes for those in Grades 6th through 12th are held from 6:00pm until 8:00pm on Sunday evenings.
MARKed Generation: A youth group built to empower young people to grow in faith, build authentic community, and serve others with boldness. We believe every student is marked by God to live with purpose, courage, and compassion.
Cost of Faith Formation
We are committed to providing meaningful and enriching Faith Formation experiences for all families in our parish community. To support the materials and resources needed throughout the year, we ask families to help cover the cost of the program.
Faith Formation Fee
$50 per child / $150 cap for families with more than 3 enrolled.
This fee helps cover books, classroom supplies, and other materials used throughout the year.
Sacramental Preparation Fee (Those preparing for First Reconciliation, First Communion, or Confirmation)
$100 per child.
Cover the cost of retreats, special materials, and additional resources specific to Sacramental Preparation.
These fees are essential to help us provide a high-quality, spiritually enriching program for your children. However, no child will ever be turned away due to financial hardship. If your family needs assistance with program costs, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
For financial assistance, please contact Nicole directly at [email protected].
We are here to walk with you on this journey of faith, and we want every child to have the opportunity to grow in their relationship with God.
Vacation Bible School (VBS) Team
Vacation Bible School at St. Mark is one of our most exciting and well-loved summer ministries—a vibrant, one-week faith experience for children from Pre-K through elementary grades. Held each July, VBS brings Scripture to life through music, crafts, games, storytelling, and joyful community.
Planning for this fun and faith-filled week begins earlier in the formation year. The VBS Team is responsible for organizing, preparing, and leading the program, with the help of enthusiastic youth and parent volunteers.
All adult volunteers (age 18 and older) working with children or youth must complete VIRTUS training, as required by the Diocese of Richmond.
Contact Nicole Brimer at 757-479-9897 for more information.
What is VIRTUS? See the section below for details on this important safe environment training.
Adult Formation
Growing Together in Faith and Community
Adult faith formation is a vital part of parish life at the Catholic Church of St. Mark. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to continual spiritual growth, deeper understanding of our faith, and active participation in the life of the Church.
One of the most meaningful ways adults in our parish grow in faith is through Small Groups. These gatherings offer a welcoming space to connect with others, explore Scripture, learn about the teachings and traditions of the Church, and grow in prayer. Whether you’re new to the faith or have been Catholic your whole life, small groups provide an opportunity to reflect, ask questions, and support one another on the journey of discipleship.
Our small group topics vary throughout the year and may include Scripture studies, seasonal series (like Advent or Lent), or Catholic theology and spirituality. Most importantly, these groups help build authentic community—rooted in the Word, nourished by the sacraments, and guided by the Holy Spirit.
Come discover how adult formation at St. Mark can help you grow in wisdom, faith, and fellowship.
Contact Fe Guzman at 757.479.9897 for more information.
Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)
The OCIA process is designed for adults (18 and older) who are seeking to explore or deepen their faith through the Catholic Church. This journey is open to those who:
- Have not been baptized and wish to inquire about the Catholic faith and way of life,
- Have been baptized in another Christian tradition and wish to become Catholic, or
- Have been baptized in the Catholic Church but have not received formal catechesis or sacraments.
The OCIA journey is a time of spiritual awakening, growth, and formation. It consists of four distinct periods, each marked by reflection, prayer, and learning. These stages culminate in the celebration of three major rites (or steps) that involve the entire St. Mark community, offering support and encouragement as individuals move toward full initiation into the Church.
For more information and to begin your journey, please visit our Becoming Catholic page.
OCIA Catechumenate Formation Schedule
FORMED
FORMED is “the Catholic faith, on demand” — a gift from St. Mark’s to you of unlimited access to Catholic e-books, talks, and videos. Use it to learn from the best sources of Catholic wisdom and to enrich your own faith.
- Goto https://formed.org/signup
- Type Virginia Beach in the search box and select Catholic Church of Saint Mark from the results
- Click NEXT and enter your information to Sign-Up!
VIRTUS: “Protecting God’s Children”
This is a one-time, 3-hour facilitated training session that educates participants on recognizing the signs of child abuse, identifying potential abusers, and understanding the appropriate steps to take if abuse is suspected. In addition, the program includes monthly online bulletins to keep participants informed and updated on this critical issue.
The training is provided at no cost. The Diocese of Richmond mandates that all diocesan employees, clergy, religious, teachers, staff, and volunteers working with children or youth complete this training.
To register for a session:
- Visit www.virtusonline.org
- Select “Registration” and choose “Diocese of Richmond” from the dropdown menu.
- Complete your information and submit the form.
- Then, select the session titled “Protecting God’s Children for ADULTS” and choose your preferred date and location.
Background Checks
The Diocese of Richmond requires all volunteers (ages 18 and older) who work with children and youth to complete a background check every year. This process ensures a safe environment for all. As part of this requirement, volunteers will also review the Safe Environment policies of both the Diocese of Richmond and St. Mark Catholic Church.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Religious Formation Office at 757-479-9897.