Sacraments are vital expressions of who we are as Catholic Christians. Each time we receive a sacrament, we respond in a deeper way to Jesus' call to discipleship. Since sacraments are so important to us, we take them very seriously and prepare to receive them thoughtfully and thoroughly. All sacraments are community events, and this is reflected in the preparation and celebration of the sacraments.
In this parish, we are committed to the idea that taking an active part in a child's spiritual formation is the right and dignity of Christian parents. Parents are the "first teachers" of their children in the vision and practice of the Christian way of life. It is in the home that children primarily experience and come to know about God. When children experience the loving care of their family members, when they are challenged to be the best people that they can be by their parents, and when they witness a family's unceasing striving for healing and reconciliation, then children really learn about who God is. Parents are, whether they realize it or not, the "sacrament" of God's presence to their children.
Linda Gibos is the Catechism/Sacramental Prep. Coordinator. You can reach her at 1-250-262-8757 .
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is offered for those children aged 3-5. It will take place at the same time as Children's Catechism. Children's catechism is for all children in Grades 1-6. Classes are Sunday mornings from 8:50-9:50 . We take breaks over Christmas, Spring Break and long weekends. There are a total of 21 classes.
Sacrament preparation is a 2 year program, one year of catechesis the year prior to receiving the Sacrament and more indepth preparation the year they receive the Sacrament. If you are new to the parish we will need a letter from your last parish proving catechism attendance there.
Catechism will start this year on Sunday, October 17th at 9:00 am. Unfortunately due to a lack of volunteers we will only be offering Year 1 & Year 2 of Sacrament preparation for First Reconciliation (Confession) & First Eucharist (Communion) and Confirmation preparation for children in Grade 6 or older.
At this time Confirmation classes have no start date as they likely won't be held on Sunday mornings. We will send more information to those who indicate they have children that will be preparing for Confirmation as soon as we have a schedule made.
Please complete the registration form drop it at the church office or send it with your child(ren) on the 17th. Cash or cheques can accompany the registration form or fees can be paid at a later date.
All children and catechists are required to wear masks during the classes (the same as at school).
You should register your child for the following classes based on their age and grade in school:
Children's Catechism Registration Form (pdf)
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