The Children’s Faith Formation is designed to give our children, from 4 year-olds to Eighth Grade, a better understanding and appreciation of the Catholic Faith. During the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, special attention is placed on the youth in music and message. After Communion, the children are called to the altar for a blessing.
Activities are used to further help the children appreciate the meaning and significance of the Gospel in their daily lives.
Parents are encouraged to accompany the child on their journey of faith through attending Mass with them and discussing their time in Faith Formation.
All teachers have had Safe Environment Training and have passed a background check.
For more information, please contact Annette at 352-726-1670.
First Holy Communion Preparation Program
The Parish offers a two year preparation program for the reception of First Holy Communion. Typically, our second grade students receive their First Communion in the month of May. Our First Holy Communion Preparation Program consists of regular catechetical classes and several special events that lead up to the First Holy Communion Mass.
For Children Enrolled at the St. John Paul II Catholic School
- Second graders at the St. John Paul II Catholic School will be prepared for their First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion as part of their daily religion classes.
- Parents are asked to complete the First Holy Communion Registration form and provide a copy of the child’s baptismal certificate.
For Children Not Currently Enrolled at the St. John Paul II Catholic School
- All second graders who are not students of St. John Paul II Catholic School are to enroll in our Children’s Faith Formation program. This will prepare them for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.
- Once enrolled, parents are asked to complete the First Holy Communion Registration form and provide a copy of the child’s baptismal certificate.
How can I as a parent best support my child’s preparation for First Holy Communion?
While our teachers do a wonderful job of explaining the sacraments and showing our young people how to receive them, it is truly their parent’s example that will have the greatest impact on their spiritual life. If you are not already doing so, we invite you to make these things a priority:
- Attending Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.
- Making your own faith a priority by seeking the opportunities for adult faith formation in the parish.
- Supporting a parish ministry with the gift of your time and talents.
- Having regular family prayer time and discussing the Eucharist with your child.
- Returning to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, especially if it’s been a while.