Sacramental Preparation at St. Mary of Sorrows

FAQs for New Families

Who can enroll in the program?

All families registered in the parish are welcome. If you are new or not yet registered, our office will gladly assist you.

General Program Information

Sacramental Preparation Overview

Children preparing for First Holy Communion and Confirmation complete a two-year formation process. First Holy Communion typically occurs in 2nd grade, and Confirmation in 8th grade. Older children are placed in age-appropriate sacramental preparation classes.

Class Schedule & Attendance

Classes meet weekly during the school year, with Sunday morning and weekday evening options. Families should notify the office of absences. Up to three unexcused absences are permitted.

Parent Involvement

Parents are the primary educators of the faith. Participation in Sunday Mass and Holy Days is expected. Parent meetings, volunteering, and at-home faith conversations are encouraged.

Volunteer Opportunities

Parents may serve as catechists, aides, hall monitors, or retreat/event helpers. Training and support are provided.

Safety Policies

We follow all diocesan child-protection guidelines, including background checks and safe-environment training.

Smartphone & Smartwatch Policy

Students may not use smartphones or smartwatches during class. Devices should not be brought to class. Older students who bring a device will store it in a phone holder.

Program Calendar

The program runs from September through May. Key events include registration, retreats, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation. An updated Calendar for the year is on the Calendar Tab.

Contact Information

Religious Education Office: 703-978-4141 x129
Director of Religious Education: Aida Willis — aidaw@stmaryofsorrows.org

First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion (Grades 1–2)

A two-year program beginning in 1st grade. Includes Mass attendance, parent meetings, a Good-Deeds log, a parish outreach event, and the 2nd-grade retreat and rehearsal.

Confirmation Preparation (Grades 7–8)

A two-year program beginning in 7th grade, including weekly Mass, limited absences, interviews, retreats, projects, exams, adoration hours, and First Friday Family Nights.

Christian Service Requirement (Grades 7–8)

Students complete one Work of Mercy each month from October through April.

Students should be able to describe their service and identify which Work of Mercy it fulfilled on a handout provided in class.

OCIC — Order of Christian Initiation for Children

For children age 7+ who have not received Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, or Confirmation.

OCIT — Order of Christian Initiation for Teens (Grades 7–12)

For teens preparing for Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation.

OCIA — Order of Christian Initiation for Adults

For adults exploring the Catholic faith or preparing for full communion.

Contacts: Ann Hartmann (amhartmann74@gmail.com)

Deacon Dave Maurer (deacondave@stmaryofsorrows.org)