One of the greatest joys and sacred responsibilities a Catholic parish has is to pass the Catholic Faith on to the next generation.  Parents are charged with the  awesome responsibility to pass on the Catholic Faith to their children.  St. Aidan’s parish assists parents in fulfilling this most important, God-given role.  Through Faith Formation classes, instruction in the Faith and Sacramental Preparation are provided for children attending public schools.  A Multisensory Program for children with physical, behavioral, and learning challenges is also available..  To inquire about this program, please call x406 or email: esmith@staidanparish.org.

The Faith Formation program begins in grade 1 and continues through grade 8.  Most children celebrate the Sacraments of Reconciliation (Confession) and Holy Eucharist (Communion) in grade 2 upon completion of two years of instruction.  Children are expected to successfully complete grade 3 through 6 classes before entering the formal Confirmation preparation program in grade 7.  After two years of study and service, young adults receive the Sacrament of Confirmation in the fall of grade 9.  Parents of children of catechetical age (age 7 and above) who have not been baptized should contact the Director of Faith Formation (x406) to develop a plan of preparation.
 

Faith Formation classes are taught by volunteer catechists.  All catechists and volunteers age 18 and above must attend VIRTUS training and submit to a background check.  Catechists are offered training and mentoring in grade level characteristics, class management, and the teachings of the Church. 

Please contact the Faith Formation Office at x405 if you would like to consider becoming involved in this most important ministry. The Faith Formation  Program is always in need of catechists, substitute catechists, and volunteers .  If you know someone who may be interested in helping, please extend the invitation.  

The Mass is the center of Catholic life.  The Family Mass provides support materials for families to carry over the Gospel message during the week and worship aides are available for children of all ages.  Children often have the opportunity to become part of the homily.  Young teens volunteer to assist at the Mass each week and the children’s choirs lead the music.  
 
The Family Mass Team is a dedicated, multigenerational group of volunteer parishioners who plan and assist at the Family Mass.  The team welcomes new members.  Please call the office at x405 for more information.

OCIA:  Order of Christian Initiation for Adults

OCIA is the process for adults who desire to join the Catholic faith and also for those seeking more information about the Catholic church.   OCIA provides the seeker with opportunities to learn about the Faith, experience Catholic worship, and grow into the faith community.  The OCIA process is led by a team of volunteers who support seekers on their individual faith journeys.  For more information about OCIA, contact the Faith Formation Director at 516-746-6585 x406 or esmith@staidanparish.org. 
 

Adult Formation Opportunities:
Formation in the Catholic Faith is a life-long process.  Adults are encouraged to actively participate in ongoing formation programs. 
 

Diocesan Training Programs for various ministries are open to all who want to pursue a particular ministry.  Please see the diocesan website at drvc.org and the parish bulletin for course listing information. 

The Faith Formation Office is located in the Upper School building
directly across from the church.  Enter through the Finamore Parish Center door.
Office hours are Monday through Wednesday 2PM to 7PM. . 
Thursdays are by appointment.  The office is closed on Fridays.

Office Address:          Office of Faith Formation
                                      508 Willis Avenue
                                      Williston Park, NY  11596

Office Phone:              516-746-6585  Extension 405

Office e-Mail:              Faith.Formation@StAidanParish.org

Office Staff:
 

Carolyn Armstrong    x405     Administrative Assistant
     carmstrong@staidanparish.org
 
Maryann Rutledge    x404    Office Assistant