Pre-K to Grade 5 Formation Classes

St Ambrose Parish offers faith formation for grades Pre-K and up. Classes are available for grades Pre-K up through 8th grade. Starting in 6th grade, teens are also welcome to the Middle School ministry. And starting in 9th grade, teens are welcome to High School ministry.

Our formation programs are:

• Family-Oriented - The goal of our programs are to help the whole family grow in their relationship to Jesus Christ and His Church through dynamic family sessions, community building, and engagement at home.
• Catechetical - We seek to offer a clear presentation of the teachings of the Church at an age-appropriate level, in a manner that helps kids to encounter Christ through those teachings.
• Community Based - Our program is taught by parish volunteers, and we hope to take what we learn and apply it in our lives and in our communities. 

We offer a way for your children to receive formation throughout their whole life. Please consider taking advantage of every opportunity has for you and your family! 

Ready to register? Click on the image below. 

When is faith formation held?

Sunday mornings between 9:50—10:50, giving families the opportunity to attend either the 9:00 or 11:00 Mass
 

What is the cost of the faith formation program?

Fees are $60 for one child, $100 for 2 children, $150 for 3 or more. 

There's also a $5 per child fee to cover Safe Environment Background Check Costs.

If your child is making First Communion this year, there's a $15 per child fee that covers the materials for First Communion banners (down to $5 with the assistance of a volunteer) and a photographer for the First Communion Mass (who makes all of the photos from the day available to everyone)

If there's any worry on costs, rest assured that no child will ever be left out of faith formation if costs can't be covered right now. Just let us know what you need, and we work with every family no matter their circumstances.

Does my child need to be baptized to begin faith formation?

No. They can enter at any time. We do require a baptismal certificate be attached to the registration form, however we are happy to work with you to facilitate having your child receive the Sacrament of Baptism.
 

I have a child who has not received their First Communion. Do they need to be in the second grade class or is there another way they can receive?

Your child will be placed in the appropriate grade level, and supplemental meetings/materials will be provided to ensure he/she can receive the sacrament.
 

My child is in middle school, what is available for faith formation at that level?

We have a wonderful program designed just for those in grades 6—8 . Please visit our Middle School page for more information.
 

I would like to volunteer in my child’s classroom, how do I sign up?

We will have sign up sheets available at our annual book pick-up or you can email us anytime.
 

I am thinking of becoming a catechist, what do I do?

We are always looking for catechists willing to share their faith with our students. The steps to becoming a catechist involve setting up a meeting with Tom Acemoglu to learn more about the commitment and support involved, and complete paperwork. Additionally, you will need to attend the diocese-required VIRTUS safe environment training.
 

I’ve been hearing a lot about “safe environment”, what does that mean?

We at St. Ambrose are committed to preserving- at all times and in all places- a sacred trust with children and youth in our ministries which are rooted in our faith in Jesus Christ. The US Bishops Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People directs all dioceses to create and implement programs and processes to teach children and youth about sexual abuse and its prevention. All adults who work with youth are required to meet certain requirements, including attending VIRTUS training. All students are required to be trained in age-appropriate ways. Parents have the ability to opt their children out of the training, however, we encourage parents to allow their children to participate in the training. Parents are always welcome to view the training materials in advance, and are encouraged to call the office at 785-1351 with any concerns.