Elementary Faith Formation

Goals of Holy Spirit Catholic Church Religious Education Program

• To expose students to basic Catholic Doctrine, Prayer, and Scripture.
• To assist in spiritual growth.
• To encourage students to live their faith.
• To promote the Sacred Tradition, Scripture, and Doctrines of the Catholic Faith.
• To teach students the Sacraments.
• To prepare and encourage students to receive frequent Reconciliation (Confession) and Communion.
• To live a life dedicated in service of God, the Parish, and the Community.
• To help students to discern their vocation in life.  (Priesthood, Religious Life, Marriage, Single Life)

Why is Religious Education Important for my Child?

Religious Education improves our quality of life. Catholic beliefs help us find meaning and purpose. Moral principles give direction. Prayer and liturgy bring us closer to God.

2023-2024 Religious Education Formation Schedule

The following ministries for children Pre-K-5th, Jr. High 6th-8th, and High School Sacrament Prep are coordinated by the Director of Religious Education.

Catechetical Formation

Age appropriate weekly formation sessions are available for children grades 1 through 5. Holy Spirit is using a new curriculum this year called Spirit of Truth, which is designed to help students come to know the person of Jesus Christ, internalize the Faith and apply it to their own lives.

Second and third grade catechism classes are part of Sacrament Preparation for First Reconciliation, Communion and Confirmation.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, also known as Atrium, is a worldwide religious formation program for children 3 to 12 years old. Holy Spirit Church has had Level 1 for children ages 3 to 6 years old* since September 2022. Atrium's goal, using the Montessori based education principles, is to fulfill the religious potential of the baptized child.

The Christ-centered catechesis in the Atrium allows children at Level 1 to come closer to God through Christ. Religious formation is founded in the sound teaching of the Church's tradition. Included in the sessions are the Parables, Sacred Scripture, and the Liturgy — all of which are used to reveal the Good News to young children. All materials used in the Atrium are hand made by the catechists.

Preschool (ages 3-4) and Kindergarten (age 5) atrium classes are offered at Holy Spirit.
Children must be potty trained to attend classes.

Sacramental Programs

Sacrament preparation is offered to children and teens who have been involved in Catechetical Formation for at least one year. Families are included in the child’/teen’s journey toward Baptism, First Confession, Confirmation and First Eucharist.

Elementary Sacrament Preparation Standard/Typical Track:

Each student needs to enroll in AND attend a foundational year before a Sacrament can be considered. (Example: Must attend Grade 1 in order to receive Reconciliation in Grade 2)

In Diocese of Phoenix: First Reconciliation: typically made in Grade 2, Confirmation/First Eucharist: typically made in Grade 3

You will notice that the sacrament of Confirmation which completes a person’s initiation into the Roman Catholic Church is placed in Grade 3 in this diocese.

In 2005 Bishop Olmsted asked the parishes to institute what is known as “Restored Order” of the Sacraments of Initiation. Our Bishop then published a document to the Faithful explaining what this means and how it positively impacts our young people. A copy of this document is available in the Religious Education Office to view.  

Non-Standard Sacrament Preparation Track:

For students entering formation classes in any other order other than the one outlined above: A foundational year of formation is required as well. (Example: if entering in Grade 2, then Sacraments can occur in Grade 3. If entering in Grade 3, then Sacraments can occur in Grade 4 etc.).

There are other situations where someone may need Confirmation only. Perhaps a teen who has moved here from another diocese with a different format. Please make an appointment with the RE coordinator to be interviewed and your student will be placed in the correct program that is appropriate for them.

Rite of Christian Initiation for Children/Teens. This is another track where a student may be placed based on their needs. Again, an appointment needs to be made with the RE Coordinator for an interview and a placement.

Please contact the Religious Formation Office with any questions or to make an appointment. 480-838-3479.

Junior High Youth Group (Grades 6-8)

Holy Spirit is offering a new discipleship program for middle schoolers this year called YDisciple. The group consists of weekly small group format meetings focusing on a series of topics including: Discipleship, The Holy Spirit, Experiencing God in Prayer & The Moral Life.

Homeschool Cohort