Faith Formation (Grades 1–8)

At St. Margaret Mary, we strive to provide opportunities for learning and growing in the Catholic faith as we partner with parents who are the most important witnesses of the faith for their children. Education in faith ALWAYS begins in the home. As such, the focus of our dedicated volunteer Catechists is to work alongside and support families as we bring the Light of Christ to each and every child.

We offer age-appropriate faith formation to help enrich the spiritual lives of the children as they open themselves to a deeper understanding of God's presence in their lives. Classes are scripturally-based with emphasis on preparing for sacraments.

Our classes will include Grades 1-8 on Mondays at the following time in the 2025-26 school year:

Grades 1 - 7 at 5:00 - 6:00 PM
Grade 8 at 5:00 - 6:15 PM
Class schedule (2026-2027) is available HERE.

Sacraments are received in the following grade years:

First Reconciliation: 2nd grade
First Holy Communion: 3rd grade, always the first Saturday in May at 10 AM
Confirmation: 8th grade

"Early Registration" packets are sent in the mail in the spring of each year to families with existing students. If you have not received one, download it from this page. Deadlines must be met to avoid a late fee. Download "Parent Agreement" packet as well and follow the directions. Forms will not be accepted without payment or a completed and signed financial assistance request.

Families new to the Parish or those registering children for the first time, please download the "New Family" packet (as well as the "Parent Agreement"). Baptismal Certificates must be provided for all children new to the program and proof of attendance at religious ed in another parish for children above 1st Grade must be submitted.

See the enrollment packets and Parent Agreement for info on tuition/fees and more details.

2026-27 Forms and Payment:

Registration Packet for all students (deadline for submission without late fee is April 27th)

ALL families, please also download the following, read the manual, sign the top sheet and forward to the office with your registration materials.
Parent Agreement with Policies and Procedures Manual

Click HERE for online payment. There is no late fee for NEW families.

Confirmation Files:

We need you help!

Please consider sharing your faith by volunteering as a Catechist in our Religious Education program. Catechists are practicing Catholics in good standing with the Church who help children and young people grow in their knowledge and love of Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church. The most important qualification is a love for God, a desire to share the faith, and a willingness to serve. Opportunities are available as a teacher, classroom aide, or substitute.

To support our volunteers, the Diocese of Bridgeport requires all new Catechists to complete the Institute for Catholic Formation online training within their first year of service. The training consists of short video modules and reflection questions designed to provide a strong foundation for catechetical ministry.

In addition, all volunteers who work with children must complete VIRTUS – Protecting God's Children awareness training before serving in the classroom. This diocesan safe environment program helps ensure a secure and nurturing environment for every child. This training must be completed before your presence in the classroom is permitted.

If you feel called to this rewarding ministry or would like more information about volunteering, please contact the Religious Education Office. We would be delighted to welcome you to our catechetical team. Tuition is waived for Catechists!

Coordinator:
Heather Moura
203-913-1013
faithformation@stmargaretmaryshelton.org