Children's Catechumenate

For registration materials, schedules and handbooks, please visit our Schedules & Forms page.

This program is for children who have missed the traditional age for receiving the Sacraments, typically in 3rd-8th grade. There are a variety of reasons for missing the Sacraments: life has been too hectic, families have stopped attending Church for a while or have been attending in another denomination, or families have been unable to find a church where religious education classes were held at a time that would mesh with the family schedule. Whatever the reason, we are always glad to welcome these children and their families at St. Francis de Sales parish.

The Children’s Catechumenate is a special group that meets twice a month on Sunday mornings in addition to attending regular religious education classes during the week. Children enrolled in the program learn the basics of our Catholic faith and prepare for the Sacraments. During the course of the year, they also celebrate a few special Rites, or religious ceremonies. There are a few events occurring at times other than Sunday mornings, but families will be made aware of these dates ahead of time so that they may adjust their schedules accordingly. Children receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation in January or February. The Sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist take place in May.

Children are required to register for, and complete, the regular weekly or 2x a month Religious Education class lessons (depending on what program they are a part of) along with the Catechumenate Classes on Sundays.

If you have any questions or would like to sign up, please call Mimi McGlauchlin, Religious Education Director, at (847) 726-4850 or contact her via e-mail at mmcglauchlin@stfrancislz.org.