Welcome to the registration information page for Discipleship Formation.
Our Discipleship Formation program is experiential and engaging at the appropriate developmental level for young people from pre-school through 11th grade. This parish program is essential for the discipleship formation of young people who attend public school and augments discipleship formation for young people who attend Catholic school Students from both St. Mary and St. Francis Xavier Parishes are invited to attend. The program’s primary goal is to develop and nourish young people in their relationship with Jesus. This is accomplished through study of the tenants of the Catholic faith, liturgical experiences, mentoring and fellowship. We follow the guidelines of the Diocese of Green Bay concerning curriculum, sacramental preparation and safe environment.
The calendar for the year is above and includes class times for all levels as well as parent/sponsor sacrament meeting dates for 2nd grade and 11th grade. Special events like the Living Rosary and Ash Wednesday Mass are also listed as required attendance nights and we highly encourage parents to attend as well.
At any time you can click the registration link to register all of your children. We are using a new software this year that links to our parish payment platform. If you get stuck, please click here for a walk-through of the registration process.
***If you are a current catechist who would like to register children, please check your email for your link or contact Lisa or Jean.
Class and Grade Descriptions
-
o Sunday mornings 9:45am – 11:00am
o Tuesday mornings 10:30am-12:00pm
Class Experience
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a method of catechesis that speaks to the heart of those who experience it. CGS is the union of Catholic theology and Montessori education. Beautifully distinct, CGS facilitates the child's natural openness to God within a curated environment that utilizes custom materials. With a particular emphasis on early introduction to the mysteries of Scripture, religious reverence, and respect for child development, it is a divine blessing to offer CGS for our parish families.
Notes
Open to potty-trained children 3 years old by September 1, 2026, and 4-year-olds. The Montessori method utilizes a multi-age classroom model. Multiple age children work at their own pace in the CGS atrium during the same session. It is important sessions be at least 90 minutes long to allow the children to complete a full work cycle, according to Montessori. Parents are welcome and encouraged to observe an atrium session once the children have become acclimated to the atrium. This process usually takes a few weeks for new children. Returning children are usually comfortable after 1 or 2 weeks of the new school year.
-
· Grades K-1 at St. Mary on Sunday mornings from 9:45-11:00am.
Class Experience
"Stories of God's Love" classes are for children in kindergarten. The sessions are led by dedicated catechists who engage the children in a variety of activities. There is a special focus on the stories Jesus told his disciples to help them come to know God and what His kingdom is like.n text goes here
-
(1st grade or first formal religion class for 2nd)
· Grades K-1 at St. Mary on Sunday mornings from 9:45-11:00am.
Class Experience
Our "God is Love" class is for children who are in 1st grade or children in 2nd grade attending their first formal discipleship formation class. This class helps the children come to know who God is with a special focus on the Trinity and the love God has for us. This class is required as a foundation to "You are Blessed" sacrament preparation class.
-
You are Blessed (2nd grade or sacrament prep for 3rd/4th - Requires one year of previous formation)
· Grade 2 at St. Mary Sunday mornings from 9:45-11:00am.
Class Experience
"You are Blessed" classes are for children in 2nd - 4th grade who have had at least one year of formal discipleship formation classes and wish to prepare to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. The classes are based on a series of animated videos designed to connect emotionally with children 6-9 years of age. Children are taken on an adventure into the life of Jesus and the life-giving truths of his Church.
-
· Grades 3-8 at St. Mary on Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30pm.
Class Experience
Our 3rd Grade course is an immersive and memorable journey through the Catholic Faith. Taught by dedicated catechists, our engaging session plans and activities will create an inviting environment that students can look forward to. Content focuses on strengthening the children's relationship with Jesus by building on the basics of the faith presented in earlier grades.
-
· Grades 3-8 at St. Mary on Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30pm.
Class Experience
Our 4th Grade sessions are designed to continue to expand on knowledge of our faith while also addressing the questions on faith children of this age start having. The basics of Catholic social and moral formation are introduced with an emphasis on God's love for us. The gift of free-will and the 10 Commandments are content focuses.
The classroom experience is intentionally designed to create a place where children feel accepted and respected, so they are comfortable voicing their doubts and questions. Children of this age who voice their questions are able to work through them and grow in faith while questions kept inside can erode faith.
-
· Grades 3-8 at St. Mary on Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30pm.
Class Experience
The emphasis on drawing out and working through faith questions continues from 4th grade into 5th grade. The Catholic social and moral formation conversations started last year are continued and further explored.
The classroom experience is intentionally designed to help children feel accepted and respected, so they are comfortable voicing their doubts and questions. Children of this age who voice their questions are able to work through them and grow in faith while questions kept inside can erode faith.
This year's content includes an in-depth exploration of God's grace in the sacraments, with a focus on what a Sacrament is and why Jesus instituted them.
-
Class Experience
EDGE is a Catholic youth ministry designed specifically for youth in grades 6-8. It provides a safe and fun place for youth to find a solid Catholic community, to get answers to their questions about faith, and to experience Jesus in a profound and personal way. Through dynamic large groups and small groups, youth learn what it means to live the Christian life through talks, games, prayer, and community.
Class Requirements
Weekly weekend Mass attendance is required. The grace received in weekly Mass participation will strengthen your family and enhance discipleship formation in your children. Making weekend Mass attendance a priority, even when you are out of town or very busy, will set an example for your children far beyond anything done in the classroom.
Reconciliation is required at least once a year; however, monthly or weekly is best. The sacrament Is a beautiful opportunity to encounter God’s mercy and forgiveness. We also receive special graces to help us overcome our sins. Since sin breaks our relationship with God, this sacrament is ultimately all about uniting you and your children more deeply with him.
-
· Grades 9-10 at St. Mary on Sunday evenings from 6:30- 8:00pm.
Class Experience
Our world is full of distractions and detours that can easily set our youth on the wrong path. Nothing can take the place of a strong faith in God. It is our faith that gives us our identity and our direction in life. Our program offers an exciting and comprehensive understanding of the Catholic faith and wins over student hearts at a critical time in their lives. THIS IS A TWO-YEAR PROGRAM. Students must attend both 9th and 10th grade class years to progress to 11th grade and the sacrament of Confirmation.
Class Requirements
Student must attend 2/3 of all the scheduled classes.
Weekly weekend Mass attendance is required. The grace received in weekly Mass participation strengthens us. Making weekend Mass attendance a priority, even when you are out of town or very busy, will set an example for your children far beyond anything done in the classroom.
Reconciliation is required at least once a year; however, monthly or weekly is best. The sacrament Is a beautiful opportunity to encounter God’s mercy and forgiveness. We also receive special graces to help us overcome our sins. Since sin breaks our relationship with God, this sacrament is ultimately all about uniting you and your children more deeply with him.
-
· Grade 11 with Immediate Confirmation Prep at St. Mary on Sunday evenings from 6:30-8:00pm.
Note: Class time will change to 6:00-8:00pm when classes shift to Immediate Confirmation Preparation begins on February 14th.
Immediate Confirmation Preparation begins with a student/parent meeting on Sunday, February 7th 6:30-8:00pm to discuss the sacrament of Confirmation and class expectations.
Class Experience
This class is required for public school 11th graders who wish to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Those students enrolled in this class will not have to register separately for the required Confirmation Prep class. This year students will come to see Mass in a dramatically new way and better understand their part in the Church.
Class Requirements
A student/parent meeting is required on February 7th; we will discuss confirmation and class expectations.
A student all-day retreat is required on February 27th. Parents are expected to be present for the afternoon portion and celebration of the Mass at 4:30pm.
A student/parent class is required on March 21st; we will discuss the symbolism and rituals surrounding confirmation.
The pastor, in partnership with sacrament staff, reserves the right to delay this sacrament for any classes, retreat or out-of-class work not completed as communicated and expected.
Weekly weekend Mass attendance is required. The grace received in weekly Mass participation strengthens us. Making weekend Mass attendance a priority, even when out of town or very busy, allows us to participate in the sacrificial offering of Jesus on the cross. Going as a family certainly helps set an example for your children far beyond anything done in the classroom.
Reconciliation is required at least once a year; however, monthly or weekly is best. The sacrament Is a beautiful opportunity to encounter God’s mercy and forgiveness. We also receive special graces to help us overcome our sins. Since sin breaks our relationship with God, this sacrament ultimately unites you and your teen more deeply with Him.
-
Immediate Confirmation Prep for Catholic High School Students at St. Mary on Sunday evenings from 6:00-8:00pm.
Immediate Confirmation Preparation begins with a student/parent meeting on Sunday, February 7th 6:30-8:00pm to discuss the sacrament of Confirmation and class expectations.
Class Experience
This class is required for Catholic high school students in 11th or 12th grade who wish to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. In public school 11th graders who wish to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. In addition to providing catechesis, youth will have opportunities to share their faith and deepen their relationship with Christ. You are invited to expand their participation in the Church through intentional activities, service, and formation, both individual and group.
Class Requirements
A student/parent meeting is required on February 7th; we will discuss confirmation and class expectations.
A student all-day retreat is required on February 27th. Parents are expected to be present for the afternoon portion and celebration of the Mass at 4:30pm.
A student/parent class is required on March 21st; we will discuss the symbolism and rituals surrounding confirmation.
The pastor, in partnership with sacrament staff, reserves the right to delay this sacrament for any classes, retreat or out-of-class work not completed as communicated and expected.
Weekly weekend Mass attendance is required. The grace received in weekly Mass participation strengthens us. Making weekend Mass attendance a priority, even when out of town or very busy, allows us to participate in the sacrificial offering of Jesus on the cross. Going as a family certainly helps set an example for your children far beyond anything done in the classroom.
Reconciliation is required at least once a year; however, monthly or weekly is best. The sacrament Is a beautiful opportunity to encounter God’s mercy and forgiveness. We also receive special graces to help us overcome our sins. Since sin breaks our relationship with God, this sacrament ultimately unites you and your teen more deeply with Him.
Volunteers and Discounts
As you consider registering your children, we invite you to reflect on the rewarding experience of volunteering with our program. Our volunteers are well supported and parents with children in the program enjoy a tuition discount. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your involvement in our community and support our children’s spiritual journeys. We also offer a family discount for those with more than three children.
Catechist Role—Catechists play a critical role in providing a safe and welcoming environment for our children. They plan and lead weekly lessons for a grade-specific classroom, utilizing material and resources provided by coordinator. They work with children in Grades K-5 and 9-11. If you would like to be a catechist, please reach out to Jean or Lisa for details. The first year, 100% of your family’s tuition will be refunded at the end of the year. If you serve again the following year, you can register upfront at a 100% discount.
Edge Mentor Role—Mentors provide a safe and fun place for Grades 6-8 where they find a solid Catholic community, get answers to their faith questions, and experience Jesus in a profound and personal way. The coordinator provides EDGE resources to make leading a small group through discussions and activities easy. If you would like to be part of this relational ministry as a mentor, please reach out to Jean or Lisa for details. The first year, 100% of your family’s tuition will be refunded at the end of the year. If you serve again the following year, you can register upfront at a 100% discount.
Helper Role – Helpers serve in a variety of roles. Some helpers assist the catechist in the classroom, ensuring a smooth learning experience. Others keep shared spaces safe by locking facility doors and monitoring children outside the classroom; they might also answer the program’s phone. Some helpers assist with projects or food preparation. Others serve as substitute catechists. We aim to have all shared spaces monitored by helpers and all classrooms covered by a catechist and helper. If you would like to be a helper, please reach out to Jean or Lisa for details. The first year, 50% of your family’s tuition will be refunded at the end of the year. If you serve again the following year, you can register upfront at a 50% discount.
Large Family Discount - Families with more than three children receive waived tuition on any child beyond 3, but does not include a discount on sacrament year fees. We encourage you to use the drop down to register your sacrament year children first and then use “Child 4” and “Child 5” for subsequent registrations of non-sacrament year students. This method will prevent us from having to invoice you for the sacrament fees. Please call the parish office for the additional discount if you have more than 5 children to register.
Financial Assistance – Saints of De Pere believes parish children should be enrolled in our formation program regardless of ability to pay. Fees can be managed by becoming a catechist, mentor, or helper for our program or by using the payment plan when checking out. You can also confidentially contact April at 920-337-2330 to discuss other options.