We are grateful for your family at St. Mary of the Mills!
The journey toward First Reconciliation and First Communion is a shared experience between our parish, our staff and volunteers, your child, and you as a parent/guardian.
As we partner with you, we ask for your commitment to the following:
Religious Education
All candidates for First Communion must participate in consistent religious education, in addition to our required retreats. Candidates should be enrolled in a Catholic school, complete a Catholic religious education curriculum at home, or attend St. Mary of the Mills Kids Ministry.
Punctuality and Attendance
I understand the importance of my child’s consistent participation in religious education and sacramental preparation, including attending two required parent-child retreats. We will arrive promptly and participate actively.
If my child is absent, he/she may need to complete additional work at home or delay preparation until the following year.
Technology
I understand that my child should only bring materials needed for our retreats and events. Cell phones, AirPods, iPads, video games, and similar devices are not permitted.
Dress and Modesty
I understand that my child should dress appropriately and modestly for sacramental retreats and events. Clothing should not be too short or revealing (e.g., no midriff tops, low-cut shirts, or miniskirts) and should not display inappropriate words or images. Hoods should not be worn. Clothing should not distract from participation, or the sacred nature of sacramental preparation.
Virtue and Discipline
Parish staff and volunteers strive to create a safe, respectful, and Christ-centered environment where every child can grow in faith and friendship.
I will support the expectation that my child treats others with kindness, respects catechists and classmates, stewards materials and parish facilities responsibly, follows directions, and participates in a way that fosters learning and prayer.
I understand that if my child struggles with behavior, the catechist or program leader will provide gentle guidance. If the behavior persists, I will be asked to help support my child. Serious or repeated disruptions may lead to a meeting with the coordinator to determine the best path forward.
Communication
I understand that clear communication between families and program staff is essential. I will regularly check and respond to emails from the program and reach out to leaders if I have concerns or if there are specific ways the parish can support my child or family.
Fostering Faith at Home
I will help my child grow in their faith by encouraging regular prayer, attending Mass weekly as a family, and discussing the lessons learned during religious education and sacramental preparation.
I recognize that parish sacramental preparation is an extension of the faith formation taking place at home and will actively support my child’s spiritual journey as they prepare for First Reconciliation and First Communion.