Faith Formation English & Spanish

First through Eighth Grade

As a people of Holy Cross Church, we are called to continue the mission of Jesus: to spread the Good News of God’s love. We do this by teaching God’s Word, worshiping and celebrating sacraments, and serving the people in the community. The role of religious education is to teach, encourage and support the faith formation of all the faithful.

At Holy Cross Church, we offer a comprehensive religious education process that will help foster faith, morals, family, and friendship. We will do this in a safe, caring and hospitable environment while supporting parents and guardians as the first and primary educators of the child’s Catholic faith.

Class Time and Schedule for Fall 2024

Classes in English are held on Wednesday afternoon. Classes in Spanish are held on Wednesday evening.
The current 2024-25 registration will close on July 1, 2024.

• Classes in English for 1st - Confirmation will be held on Wednesday 2:30 - 3:45 P.M. 
• Classes in Spanish for 1st - 5th Grade will be held on Wednesday 6:15 - 7:30 P.M.

Quinceanera's are scheduled on Saturday afternoon. To begin preparation for this celebration please see the following guidelines by clicking the link below and contact the parish office at 209-887-3341.
Quinceanera Guidelines

High School Youth Group is currently inactive. Contact Andreina at or Elizabeth at holycrosscatholicchurch@comcast.net for more Youth Group information.

First Reconciliation & Communion
The Eucharist is considered the heart of the Church's life and worship. Based on the word for "thanksgiving" and established by Jesus at the Last Supper. Children preparing for their first Reconciliation and Eucharist must be baptized Catholic. Sacramental preparation begins in the First Grade and is coordinated through the Religious Education Office. A minimum of two years of faith formation is required to participate in the preparation for the sacraments.
 
Confirmation
Confirmation is a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit like that of Pentecost. Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism by confirming or "sealing" the baptized person's union with Christ empowering active participation in the life of the Church. Youth preparing for Confirmation must be baptized Catholic. Sacramental preparation begins in the First Grade as part of a life-long faith formation process and is coordinated through the Religious Education Office. A minimum of two years of faith formation is required to participate in the preparation for the sacraments. Specific preparation for Confirmation is two years of consecutive enrollment in 6^th grade and above.      
Older youth and Adults are prepared for the Sacraments through the Rite of Christian Initiation Process. Please contact the Parish Office for more information 209-887-3341

More about the Sacraments

Are you being called to volunteer in our parish as a Catechist? Passing on the gifts of faith and knowledge to our young community is a fun and important ministry. If you've not been a catechist before it can be a little intimidating but, if you are being called trust that God will give you what you need. There are opportunities to team teach with an experienced catechist. Short - term teaching opportunities as well as training and resources available through our Faith Formation Office. 

Catechist Assistants are needed to assist with Faith Formation Classes and in the Faith Formation Office helping to organize and prepare for class lessons, preparing for class gatherings, general office help such as making copies, taking attendance and other tasks. Assistant roles are available for youth 8th grade and older as well as adults. For more information contact Susanne or Nina in the Faith Formation office at 209-887-4063

Catechist Training

The United States Catholic Conference of Bishops is committed to keeping our Children and Youth Safe and providing a healthy enviornment for our children to learn. The  Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,  re-affirmed our deep commitment to creating a safe environment within the Church for children and youth. Training and Shield the Vulnerable registration is required for our volunteers prior to working with our children. This training is coordinated through the parish office at 209-887-3341.