630 E. Wayzata Blvd.
Wayzata, MN 55391
Ph.: 952.473.6601

• Elementary Faith Formation Curriculum

• First Reconciliation

• First Communion

Elementary Faith Formation Curriculum

Finding God: Our Response to God's Gift Program

We use Finding God: Our Response to God's Gift, a curriculum which has proven to be one of the very best in contemporary catechesis for elementary school children, grades 1 - 5. Currently, we have about 200 children in this age group participating in faith formation on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. or 6:15 p.m.

Scripture is the principle source for stories in the program. Stories from the Bible are age appropriate, creative and engaging. The Bible is presented as God's living word.

Tradition is important. Church teachings, feasts and seasonal celebrations add to the excitement, and traditional prayers and rituals appeal to a sense of wonder for children.

Daily Life is woven throughout. Just as Jesus used examples from the fields, the lakes and customs of His time, Share the Joy uses stories from everyday life to teach the Good News of Jesus Christ. We also participate in social justice projects throughout the year.

First Reconciliation

Following the current practice of our archdiocese, St. Bartholomew children are introduced to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, formerly referred to as first confession, before receiving their First Communion.

The preparation events are designed to help you and your child come to a deeper appreciation of the place of reconciliation in our lives.

Parent & Children Retreat: Children receive their books and are introduced to the preparation of Reconciliation.

Reconciliation Learning Centers: Designed to be a culminating activity of all aspects of the Sacrament.

Communal Penance Service: Styled for first penitents. The Penance service is held in the main church with several visiting priests to assist with the service.

First Communion

Preparation to receive communion for the first time is a family centered, parish based program at St. Bartholomew. Second graders in both St. Bartholomew School and the weekly Faith Formation program receive remote preparation in their classes. Parents are provided with materials in the spring to assist the children in their immediate preparation.

Parent & Children's Retreat: An event to begin and to invite the children into the preparation of receiving the Bread and Wine for the first time.

Eucharist Learning Centers: Hands-on activities help children to further understand the concepts of Jesus' gift of Eucharist. The children will have a taste of unconsecrated bread and wine.

Practice: Practice is a must so our liturgy is a peaceful and prayerful event.