Faith Formation

Guardian Angels strives to be a welcoming, accessible and accommodating parish community. If you have questions about programming or accessibility and accommodations for students with disabilities, please contact the staff person responsible for the program area of interest.

2024-25 Program Descriptions

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What are the GIFT Programs?

Early Childhood for ages 3, 4, and 5 on Sundays from 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Children grow in self-awareness and experience God’s love for them.

Family Faith Formation for Grades K to 5, 1st and 3rd Sundays, from 9:35-10:45 a.m.

We provide formation for all members of the family. During sessions, children gather with a teacher by grade while parents receive catechesis based on the monthly theme and guidance for at-home lessons. Some sessions will involve the whole family learning together. We use the Family Formation program, developed here in the Twin Cities. Parishes throughout the country have seen abundant fruit for both parents and children in this program. This program is centered on empowering parents to respond to their call to be the primary educators of the faith to their children.

Family Ministry on Sundays from 9:40-10:50 a.m.

Family Ministry is a complimentary program to our Family Faith Formation program that meets on non-faith formation Sundays. Families continue to grow together and support each other as the domestic church. Activities range from crafts about saints, acting out biblical stories, throwing a Pentecost party, etc. Snacks are provided. This program is free to join.

Junior High for Grades 6 to 8, Wednesdays, 6:15-7:45 p.m.

Middle school is a time of transition for everyone. Middle school students are searching for answers to the big questions of life. Who am I? What is my purpose? In short, they are looking for Truth. Our middle school program seeks to assist youth in their search. The reality is Truth has a name: Jesus Christ. Our goal is to help introduce them to Jesus. JOLT nights include games, small groups, engaging presentations, discussion, and time for prayer. We use the Life Teen material as our base and tailor to the needs and interests of your youth.

First Reconciliation and First Eucharist for Grades 2 and older

Children experience sacramental preparation with prayer, discussion, activities and full participation in the reception of the sacraments guided by parents. Preparation will be incorporated in the Sunday Family Faith Formation schedule. Parents are the primary formers of the faith and the large group sessions support the take-home materials taught by parents. Reconciliation preparation starts in October with reception of the sacrament in December and First Eucharist preparation is offered starting in January with candidates receiving the sacrament in April. Click here for more information and schedule.

Confirmation for Grade 9 and older - Registration Date TBD, Program expected to start in January 2025

Our Confirmation program is currently going through a revision process, as we hire a new High School Youth Minister. Those in the program last year will continue with the previous structure. For those looking to enter our program, the confirmation class of 2025 begins in January of 2025.

Youth Council Grades 9 to 12 - Meeting times TBD

Youth Council members are empowered to grow in leadership by planning our youth ministry programs.

When will GIFT programs begin?

Programs are scheduled to start in October and run through mid May. Registration opens in August.

How can I volunteer in GIFT?

We need a variety of adult and high school youth to help with our Faith Formation Programs. You do not need to be an expert in the Catholic Faith to help. We will support you, resource you, and help you grow in faith while serving our community! Please contact Lukas Steffensmeier for more information.

Sacraments

First Reconciliation - Grade 2
Lukas Steffensmeier | 651-789-3162

Click here for more information and schedule.

First Eucharist - Grade 2
Lukas Steffensmeier | 651-789-3162