1st Holy Communion
Confirmation
Saint Mary Parish Religious Education (RE) for Children
Sacramental Preparation
Preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation is a process of ongoing faith formation that helps children and families grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith. At St. Mary Parish, sacramental preparation is a two-year process*. Children are expected to participate in Faith Formation for at least two consecutive years prior to celebrating a sacrament. The first year focuses on building a strong foundation in the faith through regular catechesis, while the second year includes both continued formation and immediate preparation for the sacrament.
*As St. Mary Parish implements the Catholic Church's norm of a two-year sacramental preparation process, families with children entering 2nd Grade or 5th Grade during the 2026-2027 Faith Formation year may request a transitional exception. Requests will be considered on an individual basis, taking into account the child's previous faith formation and readiness. This exception is intended to assist families during the transition to the new program requirements and will be available only for the 2026-2027 formation year.
Family Participation
Parents are the primary educators of their children in the faith, and their involvement is essential to a child's spiritual growth and sacramental preparation. At St. Mary Parish, Faith Formation is designed to support and strengthen the faith life of the entire family, recognizing that the home is the first place where children learn to know, love, and follow Jesus Christ.
Throughout the year, families will be invited to participate in a variety of formation opportunities, including parent meetings, family faith formation nights, sacramental workshops, service experiences, and parish events. These gatherings provide opportunities for parents and children to learn, pray, and grow together while building connections within our parish community. By partnering with families, we seek to create a vibrant culture of faith that extends beyond the classroom and helps form lifelong missionary disciples of Jesus Christ.
REGISTRATION:
RE Registration for students NOT in Catholic School - Click HERE
Inscripción a Educación Religiosa para estudiantes que NO asisten a una escuela católica - Haga clic AQUÍ
Sacrament Registration for students IN Catholic School - Click HERE
Students who attend St. Mary's Catholic School or another Catholic school will receive their religious education during the school day as part of the regular curriculum. However, these students must register with the religious education office to receive First Communion and Confirmation during their sacramental years. If you have any questions, please contact Yissel Carroll, Director of Religious Education, at (865) 482-2875.
Additional RE Information & Resources
RE Family Handbook (English) - Coming Soon
Manual para Familias de Catequesis (Español) - Próximamente
RE Class Calendar - Coming Soon
Yissel Carroll
Questions? We're Here to Help
Director of Religious Education
(865) 482-2875