New participants and volunteers are always welcome. For details on the following programs, special events, and other ministries to children, teens, and families, contact Frances Rojek, Director of Faith Formation at (510) 848-7812 ext. 215 or NewmanHolySpirit@aol.com.
K-6 Sunday Sessions
Children in kindergarten through grade six meet with their catechists to break open the Sunday’s gospel and learn about our faith tradition. We kick off the school year with a Family Mass, catechist commissioning, and reception. Sessions are held Sundays, 9:15 a.m. during the school year.
Junior High Group and Senior High Group
Young people in grades 7-8 and 9-12 meet for supper, socializing, service projects, and spiritual and religious learning. Junior high and senior high students meet separately for weekly lessons and gather together several times a year for excursions and prayer services. Sundays, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., during the school year.
Children’s Catechumenate
A fun and gentle program for children in grades three and up who wish to receive the sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist. Families meet weekly to experience and share the stories, rituals, and symbols of the Catholic Faith. This program is patterned after the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults and is adapted for the needs of children and their families. Sessions meet during the school year.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word
Children grades K-6 gather in the chapel for 9:30 a.m. Mass and are dismissed to break open the Word. Sunday readings are adapted with time for discussion. This group meets during the Christmas and summer break.
Playgroup and Infant Care
Playgroup offers preschool children a grounding in the basic values and tools of a life of faith. Parents plan, present and assist with sessions, under the direction of the Playgroup coordinator. These sessions take place on Sundays during the 9:30 am liturgy.
Infant Care is a warm, caring haven for children up to age 2 during the 9:30 a.m. liturgy. It is limited to 10 healthy children each week.