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 primary, 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 Religious Education classes, instruction in the Faith and sacramental preparation is provided for children attending public schools.  Within the Religious Education program, there is a Multisensory Program for children with substantial physical, behavioral, and learning challenges.  To inquire about this program, please call x406.

The Religious Education 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 (generally age 7 and above) who have not been baptized should contact the Director of Faith Formation (x406) to develop a plan of preparation.
 

Religious Education classes are taught by volunteer catechists.  All catechists and volunteers age 18 and above must attend VIRTUS training and submit to a background check.  During the summer months catechists are encouraged to attend training classes in grade level characteristics, class management, and the teachings of the Church. 

Please contact the Faith Formation Office at x404 or 405 if you would like to consider becoming involved in this most important ministry. The Religious Education 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 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.  About every two months, there is a reception immediately following the Mass for everyone to celebrate.
 
The Family Mass committee is a dedicated, multigenerational group of volunteer parishioners who plan and assist at the Family Mass.  The committee welcomes new members.  Please call the office at x404 if you can help.

RCIA:  Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults

This program of the Catholic Church is oriented towards adults who are searching and inquiring about the Catholic way of life.  RCIA provides the seeker with opportunities to learn about the Faith, experience Catholic worship, and grow into the faith community.  The RCIA program is led by a team of volunteers who support seekers on their individual faith journeys.  To inquire about considering becoming Catholic, please contact Fr. Adrian at (516) 746-6585.
 

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

FORMED is an online series of programs available to parishioners in the convenience of their own homes.  Sign up for free at https://formed.org/signup

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 in the old Peter and Paul Room.
Office hours are Monday through Thursday 1:30PM to 6:30PM. 
Fridays and morning hours are by appointment.

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

Office Phone:              516-746-6585  Extension 404

Office Staff:
 

 
James Corrigan          x401     Catechetical Leader
     jimc@staidanparish.org
 
Carolyn Armstrong    x405     Administrative Assistant
     carmstrong@staidanparish.org
 
Maryann Rutledge    x404    Office Assistant