St. Ignatius of Antioch offers Faith Formation opportunities for children and adults.
See program summaries on this page.
For more information, please contact the parish office at 925.778.0768.
GRADES 1 THROUGH 8
Children meet weekly with their catechists and once a month, parents join with the children and catechists. The weekly liturgical readings serve as the basis for instruction with additional resources that augment the readings. In addition, we utilize the Family of Faith model published by Sophia Institute Press that builds on the four pillars of the Catholic Church which include Creed, Sacraments, Life in Christ (how we live), and Prayer. There is a year devoted to each of these themes. We have a core group of volunteer catechists who model the teachings of Jesus through prayer, worship, and service to others. Sessions for grades 1st through 8th grade are scheduled on weeknights varying each year.
CHILDREN'S LITURGY OF THE WORD
Liturgy of the Word for Children is offered at the 10:00 am Sunday Liturgy during the faith formation school year. The children gather with their parents for Mass and experience the Procession, Welcome the Gloria. After the Opening Prayer, they are invited to the altar for dismissal. The catechists break open the Word according to the readings specified for that Sunday. This child-friendly process encourages the children to share what they think and how they feel about the mission of Jesus Christ.
SPECIAL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (SPRED)
The goal of SPRED is to enable persons with developmental disabilities to experience an ongoing education in faith and positive integration into the liturgical and community life of the Church. SPRED nurtures the faith life of persons with developmental disabilities and nurtures the faith of the volunteer catechist. Through preparation (focus on Montessori activates), Symbolic Catechesis (sharing personal life experience, praying, and singing), and Agape (social interaction over food and beverage), catechists and friends grow in love and dignity.
HIGH SCHOOL & CONFIRMATION
Confirmation preparation begins during the freshman year of High School. Older students may attend if they have had a lapse in their formation. The Diocese has a requirement that confirmation candidates complete a combination of 72 study and volunteer hours in preparation for the Sacrament. Session times and days may vary each year.
ADULT CONFIRMATION
These sessions are held at the beginning of the year, usually in January, and are four consecutive Tuesdays in the Parish Office beginning at 7:30 pm, and covers everything needed to become fully initiated. The Adult Confirmation takes place at the cathedral in February.
ADULT FORMATION
Throughout the year, the Parish offers several formation activities. A parish mission and retreat facilitated by guest speakers are offered based on interest. Other classes are offered at various times throughout the year. Both morning and evening sessions are scheduled. Programs and classes are announced in the weekly bulletin and the parish newsletter.