Elementary Faith Formation

Sunday Mass

The celebration of the Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life,” and therefore, all families enrolled in Faith Formation are encouraged to attend Mass every Sunday (or Saturday evening). Every mass is family-friendly, however, the 10:00 a.m. Sunday mass will include the Children’s Liturgy of the Word every 1st and 3rd Sunday beginning Sunday, October 6, and a Family Ministry Gathering will follow afterward every 3rd Sunday of the month.

Monthly Family Ministry Gatherings

Family Ministry gathers on the 3rd Sunday of every month following the 10:00 a.m. Mass. Plan on enjoying kid-friendly snacks and activities, engaging conversation with other parents, and witnessing how God is working in the lives of all families, including your own. Our first monthly Family Ministry gathering will be on Sunday, September 15.

Faith Formation Sessions

We offer in-person sessions on Mondays from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.  Also previously known as “CCD” or “Religious Education”, we provide experienced catechists to teach children our Catholic faith in their respective grade levels:

• Grade 1 - Faith Formation and Sacramental Preparation Year 1 (see below)
• Grade 2 - Faith Formation and Sacramental Preparation Year 2 (see below)
• Grades 3 through 5 - Faith Formation (and Sacramental Preparation, if needed)

Preparing for First Communion is a two-year process typically starting in first grade (but could be anytime your family is ready). Preparation sessions are on Mondays from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. The Sacramental Preparation Process includes special events such as Teaching Masses, Prayer Services, and Retreats, to make the most of this wondrous time of formation. 

It is with great joy and reverence that I introduce myself as the teacher of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW). My name is Brenda R. Rios, and I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to share in the spiritual growth and education of our youngest members. As a public-school educator for Alhambra Unified School District, one subject I have longed to teach is religion and teaching the CLOW class has provided me that opportunity to nurture young souls. I am committed to creating a welcoming and engaging environment where our children can encounter Christ and grow in their relationship with him. I look forward to this continued journey in faith, love, and community.

My name is Jeanne Peterson and my belonging at St. Rita Catholic Parish began when I married my husband 60 years ago. During this time, I was actively volunteering at the Parish school with my two student sons. I am currently a member of the St. Rita Guild, the St. Rita choir and Emmaus ministries. Beginning my 22nd year as 2nd grade teacher for Faith Formation, it is my joy to pass on the Catholic faith to God’s children preparing to receive the Sacraments of First Confession and Holy Communion. With the help, love and trust in our Lord Jesus, the joy will continue. I can be reached at [email protected].

My name is Patty Sullivan and I am happily beginning my 16th year as a 4th/5th grade St. Rita Faith Formation teacher. I have been a parishioner since I was 6 years old when my family moved to Sierra Madre. I attended St. Rita School and so did my 3 children; hopefully, my two-year-old grandson will also be enrolled here in a few years. My focus each year is in reinforcing the students’ understanding of the Ten Commandments, introducing the Seven Sacraments, teaching them how to say the rosary and leading a discussion of the weekly Gospels. I look forward to sharing my love of the Catholic faith and our St. Rita parish community with another group of students this year. I can be reached at [email protected].

• 2024-2025 Faith Formation Calendar

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