The celebration of Mass each weekend is an essential component of your child's formation. To help make Mass more meaningful for families, we offer the following (when not restricted by COVID-19):
The 9:30 Mass is intended to be particularly attractive to families with children. Children's Liturgy of the Word is provided weekly except during the monthly Family Mass. The Family Mass includes participation by the Children's Choir and a presentation by our CIA: Christ in Action Ministry, and draws on children and their parents as lectors and greeters. Some of our formation programs take place immediately after the 9:30 Mass.
Students in the first year of Youth Ministry attend the noon Mass as part of their formation, immediately after their twice-monthly morning class.
Students in the second year of Youth Ministry attend the 7pm Mass as part of their formation, immediately following their twice-monthly evening class.
Other Mass times are 5pm Saturday and 7:30am Sunday, so there's a time to fit every schedule.
Parents are the first, best and most important catechists for their children. Therefore our programs are based on a family model, with parents or guardians being the primary teacher, with guidance by catechist "coaches."
Families with children age 4 through 5th Grade participate in monthly "Whole Family Catechesis" sessions, and receive materials to use at home the others weeks.
Children who are preparing for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist attend weekly sessions with their parents or guardians.
Students in Junior High attend a traditional weekly class, with parent attendance required occasionally.
Confirmation preparation is available to students in 8th grade and high school, with classes and Mass twice a month on Sundays.
Visit the Children's Programs-Classes page for more information.
Classes are available to registered parishioners who actively support the parish (financial support through Faith Direct or using Sunday envelopes is the most obvious method). Not registered in the parish yet? Click here.
A "Parish Family Activity" is offered for all families monthly on Sunday morning, to provide opportunities for socializing while experiencing some seasonal aspect of our liturgical life. No registration required.
In SJND Quad or Notre Dame Hall, 10:45 to 11:45 am. Upcoming dates:
January 2
February 27
March 27
April 10
June 5
Link to events and seasonal resources at https://sjbalameda.org/family-activity