Youth - Grades 6-12

Middle School (6-8) and High School (9-12) faith formation are critical programs in helping youth encounter the love and truth of Jesus and His Church. The Faith Formation “school year” kicks off in the beginning of September and concludes in early May. The youth will gather in-person almost every Wednesday night at Blessed Sacrament Parish from 7-8:30 PM. During these "Journey Nights", they will participate in fun activities, listen to inspiring lessons, grow closer with their friends through small group time, and deepen their love for God through personal prayer. Though the middle and high school students gather at the same time and place, their programs are kept separate for the sake of providing the most prevalent and age-appropriate formation.

The ultimate goal is to lead the youth to a rich and personal encounter with the person of Christ. More than just a place to learn, Journey Nights (faith formation nights) are a place for youth to meet our Lord. Our team is so excited to walk with the middle schoolers on their faith journey!

Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is the Church’s participation is the great event of Pentecost. When we are confirmed, something supernatural happens: God acts. He sends down His Spirit for us to be filled with. The bond we have with the Blessed Trinity and the Church is strengthened. Through Baptism we take on the identity of Christ- we are made sons and daughters of God. Through Confirmation we take on the mission of Christ and the Church- to lead souls to heaven. Having been equipped with all the necessary gifts, we are then sent out into the world to boldly spread and defend our faith in Jesus.

In the Diocese of La Crosse, youth receive the Sacrament of Confirmation when they are in 10th grade. Prior to their Confirmation, which is around Easter time, they participate in an 8-month preparation program. This program consists primarily of monthly Sunday evening sessions, through which the candidates will engage in interactive activities, learn about the fundamentals of the Catholic faith, discuss and share their experiences in small groups, hear inspirational stories of the Saints, grow in their understanding of the Holy Spirit and His gifts, and open their hearts to the Lord through personal prayer. In addition to these monthly sessions, candidates are required to attend a special dinner with their parish priest as well as a Confirmation retreat.

Families with children entering 10th grade will be contacted during the summer and invited to register their sophomores into the Confirmation preparation program, which begins in September. 

Families with 11th or 12th graders who have not yet been Confirmed should contact the program director. We will happily work with you and your teens to make sure they receive this important Sacrament.