Elementary (Grades 1 - 5)

Our Elementary program is a faith-based Catholic curriculum designed to foster the basic and sacramental needs of children in lower elementary grades. This year in grades 1-5, we are using the Word of Life curriculum by the Augustine Institute. Online registration can be found here.

Sacramental Preparation

In the Diocese of Phoenix, the guidelines for receiving sacraments are as follows:

• Reconciliation (Confession) - 2nd Grade
• First Holy Communion - 3rd Grade
• Confirmation - 3rd Grade

Students in 2nd grade prepare for the sacrament of Reconciliation during their weekly class. First Reconciliation will occur in early spring 2025.

Students in 3rd grade also prepare for First Communion and Confirmation in their weekly class. First Communion and Confirmation dates are tentatively scheduled for the end of April/beginning of May pending scheduling by the Diocese of Phoenix.

Students in 4th and 5th grade planning to receive a sacrament during the school year must enroll in both the weekly Tuesday class (Bridge 45) and Sunday Sacramental Prep class. 4th/5th Sacramental Prep classes will begin in the Fall and run through the Spring.

More information will be given later in the year. There are additional materials used in preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Eucharist, and Confirmation.

BRIDGE 45

BRIDGE 45 is our new format this year for 4th and 5th grade faith formation, building a "bridge" between the students' sacramental preparation and junior high youth ministry. Combining our 4th and 5th graders into the same faith formation session allows for our students to have a unique experience on their faith journey as we will explore themes of practical-lived faith, vocational awareness, service, and social in fun and exciting ways. Trained adult and high school-age core members will walk this journey with our 4th and 5th grade students, continuing to guide them toward making their Catholic faith their own.

Class Times

Classes for 1st - 5th Grade are offered at the following days and times:

1st - 3rd grade
Tuesday 4:15pm - 5:30pm
Tuesday 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Wednesday 2:45pm - 4:00pm

4th - 5th grade (must enroll in both if receiving a sacrament)
Tuesday (BRIDGE 45) 6:0pm - 7:15pm
Sunday (Sacramental Prep) 3:00pm - 4:30pm

For any questions, please contact the Faith Formation Office at 480-893-1160.