Children’s Programs and Faith Formation Ministries

Director of Faith Formation - Peggy Sklar - 202-336-7219

FAITH FORMATION, Peggy Sklar - 202-336-7219

Growth in the faith occurs throughout life. Catechesis, prayer, Bible study, and justice and service opportunities are all part of our parish-wide faith formation program. As a Jesuit parish, particular emphasis is given to “finding god in all things.” Specific programs include Sunday morning classes for children and teens; Family faith Formation Sundays (parents and children gather for prayer, snack, story-telling and seasonal craft or project), closing Mass and Catechiast appreciation dinner for Cathechists, parents and students.

CHILDREN'S LITURGY OF THE WORD, Peggy Sklar - 202-336-7219

Celebrates the Liturgy of the Word at the 9:30 Mass with children (age 7 and older). Children reflect on and discuss the

readings at their age level and engage in an activity related to the Gospel using mediums such as drama, music, and

story- telling. Following the Creed, the Prayer of the Faithful, and the collection, the children rejoin the assembly for

the Presentation of Gifts. One child presents the children's collection with the gifts of the assembly.

HANDS ON THE WORD,
Lynn Welch – 703-978-4113; Lynnly Tydings -301-891-1140; Monica Harmon – 703-503-0572

Celebrates the Liturgy of the Word with children age 3-6 with a Scripture reading and an age-appropriate activity.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

FIRST RECONCILIATION AND FIRST COMMUNION, Peggy Sklar - 202-336-7219

Celebrated in the Second Grade. The two-year program includes Sunday morning children’s classes, parent sessions (to familiarize parents with the theology, history, and biblical foundations of these sacraments as well as the catechetical and celebratory aspects), and an annual parent/child retreat.

CONFIRMATION, Peggy Sklar - 202-336-7219

Reflects full initiation into the Catholic Church, for students in grades 8 and higher. Preparation classes are offered on a periodic basis when there are a sufficient number of candidates. Two-year program (starting in 7th grade or higher) with parent/candidate/sponsor retreats, service projects and field trips.

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF CHILDREN (RCIC) and TEENS (RCIT), Peggy Sklar - 202-336-7219

Preparation for Baptism and/or First Communion and Confirmation for children aged 7 (2nd grade) and older. These young people are received into the church at the Easter Vigil.

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (RCIA), Peggy Sklar - 202-336-7219

For adults to learn about the Catholic faith, prepare for Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, and/or to join the Catholic church. Confirmed Catholics are needed to sponsor candidates and assist in their preparation. This is a good way for Catholics to learn more about their faith.

YOUTH MINISTRIES

ALTAR SERVERS, Deacon Willis Daniels - 202-986-2460

Assist the priest in the celebration of the Mass, by leading processions and helping to prepare the gifts. Only for young

people who have received First Communion.

YOUTH LECTORS, Marita Hopmann – 301-984-9539; Joseph Tortorici- 202-399-8469

Proclaim the Word of God at liturgies. Requires preparation and practice. Only for young people who have

received First Communion.

YOUTH USHERS, Sylvester Judd – 202-628-6717; Lillian Mickens – 202-544-1670

Fulfill all the duties and role of an usher. An important way for children (age 7 and older) to learn about providing welcome and get involved in service in the Church.

TEEN CLUB, Deacon Willis Daniels - 202-986-2460; Celeste Locke – 202-388-0678

Seeks to develop teens both socially and spiritually, striving to follow the example of Jesus Christ as young Catholics. Provides a wide range of activities. The Teen Club welcomes the participation of caring adults.