​​​​​​The faith formation/religious education of children and youth is the responsibility of parents/guardians, pastors, and the local parish community. Before all others, parents/guardians are bound to form their children, by word and example, in faith and in Christian living.  As parishioners, families are expected to participate in the parish Sunday liturgy.

Families who choose to provide faith formation of their children/young people at home instead of through parish youth faith formation programs cannot do so independently but must coordinate with the parish, which shall support, accompany, and guide the parents' efforts.

The primary responsibility of parents/guardians for the formation of their children in the faith cannot be interpreted in an isolated way since the family is an integral part of the larger ecclesial community. All faith formation must be carried out in a way that builds unity within the Church. Faith formation in a home setting must promote the understanding that being a Christian is not a private matter but rather a personal vocation within the context of the Church lived out in the experience of the parish community.

Parents/guardians who are going to form their children/young people in the faith at home must notify the pastor/parish catechetical leader (PCL) early in the process if they intend to have their children receive the sacraments. Parents/guardians are required to follow the guidelines set by the pastor/PCL.  These include ensuring that their children/young people participate in the preparation necessary that precedes each sacramental celebration.  

Parents/guardians have the responsibility to participate in catechetical formation so that they will be able to prepare their children/young people for the sacraments, in collaboration with the parish community.

Children/young people are best served when pastors, parents/guardians, and catechists offer formation appropriate to the level, development, and disposition of the children/young people.

The pastor/PCL should serve as a resource to the parents/guardians. Textbooks, online resources​ and other materials must be approved by parish catechetical leaders. Detailed guidance is found in the following sections of this Handbook:

4.1.5 - Introduction to Catechesis for Children and Youth

4.1.6 - Early Childhood Faith Formation

4.1.7 - Faith Formation for Elementary School-Age Children

4.1.8 - Initiation of Children Who Have Reached Catechetical Age

4.1.9 - Faith Formation for Middle School-Age Children

​4.1.10 - Faith Formation and Youth Ministry for High School-Age Students​

​10-13-2021, 12-5-2025