Sacramental Preparation
In striving to meet the apostolic needs of all our students, the Faith Formation Program at St. Bonaventure readies students to complete preparation for the Roman Catholic Sacraments of Initiation, regardless of their sacramental background. The following Faith Formation pathways detail the preparation process depending on each student’s spiritual background. Most involve a two-year process.
Standard Preparation for Baptized Catholics Enrolling in 1st or 2nd Grade
Our standard two-year sacramental preparation process prepares students to receive their First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion at the end of Grade 2. Parents partner with classroom teachers throughout this process to prepare their child to receive the sacraments.
Preparation for Baptized Catholics Enrolling After Grade 2
Baptized Catholics who begin attending St. Bonaventure after Grade 2 will participate in a two-year sacrament preparation class through St. Bonaventure Parish’s Faith Formation program, in addition to their regular religious study curriculum at St. Bonaventure School. Students will receive the Sacraments of First Reconciliation upon successful completion of their year one preparation and First Holy Communion at the end of year two.
Preparation for Students Baptized in a Non-Catholic Christian Church
Students baptized in a non-Catholic Christian Church follow the same two-year preparation process as baptized Catholics enrolling after grade 2 (see above). However, they will need to make a Profession of Faith to the Roman Catholic Church prior to receiving the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist.
Preparation for Non-Baptized Students (Catechumen)
Students who have never been baptized in a Christian Church participate with a parent in the two-year Children’s Catechumenate Process through St. Bonaventure Parish’s Faith Formation program. Year one includes student-parent participation in the inquiry phase, the Rite of Acceptance, and Sunday Mass. Year two includes participating in the Rites of Sending and Election and the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil.
*According to the Roman Catholic Church, the “age of reason” is approximately seven years old. Thus, non-baptized students in Grade 1 who are seven or younger may be baptized according to the Infant Rite of Baptism and do not need to follow the procedures for the two-year Catechumenate. Contact the Parish Center to inquire about Baptism Preparation Classes at (714) 846-3359.