What is Catechetical Ministry?

Catechesis is an education in the faith of children, young people and adults which includes the teaching of Christian doctrine with a view to initiating the hearers into the fullness of Christian life.”

For all inquiries, contact the Director of Catechetical Ministry at: (408) 739-1669.

Click here for the Registration form to register for any catechetical formation.


Adult Faith Formation

Currently, sessions for adults interested in becoming Catholic or completing the sacraments of Eucharist or Confirmation will continue meeting each Tuesday at 7:00 PM in the Bridal Room in the vestibule of the church.

Becoming Catholic (RCIA)
This process for adults is comprised of several distinct steps with specific preparatory rites before being received into the Catholic Church. They begin with an inquiry period of sessions, which include Catholic doctrine, prayer and reflection. They enter into a more intense period of preparation during Lent and at the Easter Vigil, they receive the Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Candidates baptized in another Christian tradition and baptized Catholics wishing to complete the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist also participate in this process and are initiated at the Easter Vigil. Classes currently meet on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. in the Bridal Room (Mtg. Rm. 2) in the vestibule of the church.

Unbaptized Children of School Age
Children 6 yrs. or older who would like to be baptized enter a process adapted from the RCIA (see above). These children begin by attending religious education classes and attend special meetings with the Director of Religious Education/RCIA throughout the year. The children participate with the adult candidates in some of the rites of the RCIA. They are baptized on Easter Sunday.

Welcome Back Catholics
This is a journey for those who have left the church or questioning their faith. They have an opportunity to learn more about the church today, the sacraments, liturgy and morality.

Adult Confirmation
Classes for adults who wish to prepare for Confirmation.


Youth Faith Formation

This is a process where Youth (8 grader and higher) students explore deeper into their faith. We also encourage the students to participate in St. Cyprian's Youth Ministry (Junior High and High School). The Youth Ministry enhances their learning and experience of God's presence.


Elementary Faith Formation

Religious Education Program
Religious education classes for public school children and youth (6 yrs. and older) are held at St. Cyprian School on Thursday afternoons from 4:00-5:15 p.m. Classes begin September and run through May. (See the 2010-11 calendar of classes for dates of sessions.) The cost is $65/child, $80/2 children and $95/3+ children. No child is refused because of lack of funds. Any sacramental preparation begins with registration and participation in the Religious Education Program. If you have any questions, please call the Catechetical Office, 408 739-1669.

First Reconciliation/First Communion Program
Children preparing for First Reconciliation and First Communion must be in Grade 2 or older and must have completed at least one year of religious education prior to this year. Other requirements:

• Children attend religious education classes
  
• Parents and children attend Mass regularly
  
• Parents and children attend the special liturgies scheduled for the year (see First Reconciliation/First Communion Program calendar)
  
• Attend the parent and or sponsor-candidate interview
  
• Children attend the First Reconciliation and the First Communion retreats
  
• Parents attend the scheduled parent meetings (see First Reconciliation/First Communion Program calendar)

• Candidates attend religious education
  
• Attend Mass regularly
  
• Attend the special liturgies and meetings scheduled for the year (see the Confirmation Program calendar)
  
• Attend the sponsor-candidate interview
  
• Parents and candidates work at the Spaghetti Dinner (held in February the First week)
  
• Candidates attend the Confirmation retreat