Lifelong Faith Formation
A pathway for all to encounter Christ.
At St. Cletus Parish, lifelong faith formation is rooted in the belief that faith is not simply learned—it is lived, shared, and continually deepened throughout every stage of life. From early childhood to adulthood, our parish community walks together as disciples of Jesus Christ, growing in faith through prayer, learning, service, and community.
Lifelong Faith Formation provides opportunities for individuals and families to encounter Christ, explore the richness of the Catholic tradition, and discover their unique call to discipleship through opportunities for learning, prayer, worship, and community building. Whether someone is just beginning their journey of faith or seeking to grow deeper in their relationship with God, St. Cletus offers a welcoming pathway for all.
Web Pages
Children and families are at the heart of our parish community. Through engaging catechesis, prayer, and community-building opportunities, we support parents as the primary educators of their children in the faith.
Children & Family Ministry includes:
-
Faith formation for children in elementary school.
-
Children’s Liturgy of the Word
-
Vacation Bible School
-
Family-centered catechesis and gatherings
-
Sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion
-
Opportunities for families to pray, serve, and grow together
-
Seasonal celebrations during Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter
Our goal is to help children encounter God’s love and to support families in building strong foundations of faith in the home.
-
Youth ministry at St. Cletus accompanies middle school and high school students as they grow in faith, identity, and leadership. Through community, service, prayer, and meaningful conversation, young people are invited to discover how Christ is present in their lives.
Youth ministry opportunities may include:
-
Weekly or monthly youth gatherings
-
Service and social justice opportunities
-
Retreats and faith experiences
-
Leadership development and peer ministry
-
Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation
We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where young people can ask questions, build friendships, and deepen their relationship with Christ and the Church.
-
Young adults (ages 18–39) are invited to grow in faith, build meaningful friendships, and discern their vocation through the life of the Church.
Young Adult Ministry offers opportunities for:
-
Small faith-sharing groups
-
Social gatherings and community-building events
-
Service opportunities and outreach
-
Spiritual formation and prayer experiences
-
Discussions on faith and life
Whether someone is in college, beginning a career, starting a family, or discerning their next steps, young adults are welcomed into a vibrant community of faith.
-
Faith formation does not end after receiving the sacraments—it continues throughout our entire lives. Adult Faith Formation provides opportunities for adults to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith and grow spiritually.
Programs may include:
-
Scripture study and Bible reflections
-
Seasonal faith formation during Advent and Lent
-
Speaker series and parish workshops
-
Small faith-sharing groups
-
Opportunities to explore Catholic social teaching and spiritual practices
These offerings invite adults to continue learning, praying, and growing in their relationship with God.
-
The Order of Christian Initiation (OCI) is the process through which older children, teens, and adults are welcomed into the Catholic Church.
OCI is for those who:
-
Have never been baptized.
-
Were baptized in another Christian tradition and wish to become Catholic.
-
Were baptized Catholic but have not yet received First Communion or Confirmation.
Through prayer, learning, and participation in the life of the parish, participants gradually grow in faith and prepare to receive the sacraments of initiation.
-
Sacraments are sacred encounters with Christ and moments of grace in the life of the Church. St. Cletus Parish prepares children, youth, and adults to receive the sacraments through prayerful formation and community support.
Preparation includes:
-
Baptism preparation for parents and families.
-
First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion preparation for children.
-
Confirmation preparation for youth.
Each sacramental journey is designed to help individuals and families encounter Christ more deeply and become active participants in the life of the Church.
-
Evangelization: Walking Together in Faith
Lifelong faith formation at St. Cletus is about more than programs—it is about accompaniment, community, and discipleship. As a parish community, we walk together in faith, supporting one another as we grow closer to Christ and live the Gospel in our daily lives.
Evangelization is at the heart of our mission as a parish: sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ and inviting others into a living relationship with Him. At St. Cletus, evangelization is about creating welcoming spaces where people can ask questions, share their stories, and grow in faith together. Whether someone is returning to the Church, exploring faith for the first time, or seeking to deepen their relationship with Christ, there is a place for them here.
One of the ways we foster this encounter is through Alpha, a welcoming series of conversations about life, faith, and meaning. Alpha provides a relaxed environment where people can share a meal, watch a short talk, and engage in open and honest discussion about the Christian faith. Through Alpha, we seek to accompany one another as disciples who invite others to encounter the love of Christ.
See our page for Alpha HERE!
Contact Us
All are welcome to begin—or continue—their journey of faith with us.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to any member of the Lifelong Faith Formation Team with questions. You can find out more about getting involved by clicking HERE.
Lifelong Faith Formation Team
Oblate James Holzhauer-Chuckas, ObSB, Pastoral Associate and Director of LFF
Contact Oblate Jame about anything related to lifelong faith formation and pastoral ministries.
Norma Hernandez, Coordinator of Faith Formation for Children and Teens
Contact Norma about anything related to children’s faith formation and sacramental preparation.
Larry Manetti, Coordinator of Adult Faith Formation and OCIA
Contact Larry about anything related to adult preparation for full initiation into the Church through the Easter Sacraments. You can also contact Larry about Bible study and adult faith formation programs.
Frank Ochoa, St. Cletus Middle School Religion Teacher
Contact Frank about anything related to religion in our parish middle school.