Welcome to Children's Faith Formation!
2025 Classes are offered Sundays from 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Sept through May.
Contact [email protected] for more information
Contact [email protected] for more information
Guiding Principles
We believe that each child is a unique and created being, inherently connected to a divine relationship with God. As adults, our role involves not only observing and respecting this inherent bond, but also actively nurturing it through prayer and guidance. Both families and the larger church community play pivotal roles in upholding their commitment to the spiritual growth of children. A thriving community requires the unwavering support, proper training, and dedication of volunteers who generously invest in the children's spiritual journey. Importantly, the intertwining of generations—children, youth, and adults—engaging in purposeful, Kingdom-driven work together, fosters a holistic environment that strengthens both the faith and the bonds within the community.
Core Values
- Relationship with God – We nurture each child’s personal and growing relationship with God through scripture, prayer, and wonder.
- Belonging – Every child is seen, known, and valued as part of a loving community of faith.
- Contemplation and Wonder – We honor the child’s natural sense of awe and curiosity as a way to encounter the mystery of God.
- Creativity and Expression – We encourage imagination and artistic expression through hands-on, meaningful work.
- Respect for the Child – We follow the child’s lead, offering freedom within a prepared and purposeful environment.
- Joyful Participation in Liturgy – We help children understand and love the liturgical life of the Church through concrete materials and shared celebrations.
- Service and Stewardship – We invite children to live out their faith through care for others and the world around them.
- Silence and Solitude – We provide time and space for reflection, stillness, and listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit.
- Support for Families – We walk alongside families and caregivers, recognizing their vital role in nurturing faith.
- Cherishing Childhood – We treasure this sacred time of becoming and meet children with gentleness, joy, and reverence.
**Please note: The Calvary Nursery is a nut-free, sesame seed free environment. Do not bring snacks or items containing sesame seeds peanuts or tree nuts.**
Class Offerings
Calvary's faith formation program is inspired by the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, an educational approach to religious formation for children, inspired by the teachings of Maria Montessori and informed by her concept of the "planes of development." This approach recognizes that children go through distinct stages of development, each with its own unique characteristics and needs. These stages are divided into three planes: the first plane (ages 0-6), the second plane (ages 6-12), and the third plane (ages 12-18). More about the Planes of Development here.
Level I
The Good Shepherd
Ages 3-6 or Pre-K through Kindergarten.
The theme for this level is the Good Shepherd who loves his sheep and gives everything for them. The child is introduced to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and discovers who the sheep are. The enjoyment of the gift of God’s own self to the child is the foundation of further religious insight and moral development. This Level could be characterized as a “time of joy and wonder” in the lives of the children.
The Good Shepherd
Ages 3-6 or Pre-K through Kindergarten.
The theme for this level is the Good Shepherd who loves his sheep and gives everything for them. The child is introduced to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and discovers who the sheep are. The enjoyment of the gift of God’s own self to the child is the foundation of further religious insight and moral development. This Level could be characterized as a “time of joy and wonder” in the lives of the children.
Level II
The True Vine
Ages 6-9 or 1st through 3rd grade.
The overall theme for these years is the image of Christ as the True Vine, focusing on both relationship and responsibility. The History of the Kingdom of God is an important framework for introducing and illustrating God’s work and planning on behalf of humanity. As the children begin to discover the vast cosmic history of God’s plan of salvation, they begin to realize that they have something to contribute to it. Moral sensitivity/awareness begins here and grows as the work is presented.
The True Vine
Ages 6-9 or 1st through 3rd grade.
The overall theme for these years is the image of Christ as the True Vine, focusing on both relationship and responsibility. The History of the Kingdom of God is an important framework for introducing and illustrating God’s work and planning on behalf of humanity. As the children begin to discover the vast cosmic history of God’s plan of salvation, they begin to realize that they have something to contribute to it. Moral sensitivity/awareness begins here and grows as the work is presented.
Level III
Joyful Journey
Ages 10-12 or 4th-7th grade
Joyful Journey incorporates creative, developmentally appropriate lessons organized in the categories of Self, Society, and Spirituality. Prayer, service projects, activities, reflection, and discussion are part of the weekly lessons.
Joyful Journey
Ages 10-12 or 4th-7th grade
Joyful Journey incorporates creative, developmentally appropriate lessons organized in the categories of Self, Society, and Spirituality. Prayer, service projects, activities, reflection, and discussion are part of the weekly lessons.
Level IV
Faith Foundations
Ages 12+ or 7th - 9th grade
Faith Foundations provides an introduction to the Old and New Testament, a brief history of Christianity and an overview of Episcopal beliefs and practices for those who want to know more about the essentials of the faith. Students will engage in thought-provoking discussions, prayer, and bible study.
Faith Foundations
Ages 12+ or 7th - 9th grade
Faith Foundations provides an introduction to the Old and New Testament, a brief history of Christianity and an overview of Episcopal beliefs and practices for those who want to know more about the essentials of the faith. Students will engage in thought-provoking discussions, prayer, and bible study.
Youth Confirmation Prep (offered every other year)
AGES 13+ or 8th - 12th grade
Offered every two years, Youth Confirmation Preparation provides an introduction to Episcopal beliefs and practices for those preparing for confirmation in the Episcopal Church and for all those who want to know more about the essentials of the faith. Students will engage in thought-provoking discussions, prayer, and bible study. See more here.
AGES 13+ or 8th - 12th grade
Offered every two years, Youth Confirmation Preparation provides an introduction to Episcopal beliefs and practices for those preparing for confirmation in the Episcopal Church and for all those who want to know more about the essentials of the faith. Students will engage in thought-provoking discussions, prayer, and bible study. See more here.
"Come sow the seeds of faith." ~Matthew 13