• Write your caption here

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

Youth Catechesis

All youth are welcomed into a Christ-centered community where everyone will grow together in faith through spiritual, social, and service opportunities.

The Youth Ministry of St. Catherine Labouré seeks to welcome teens in grades 6 through 12. 


Like our patron saint we are dedicated to bringing all youth into the loving hearts of both Jesus and Mary. We will do this by supporting each individual through their unique talents so they are able to live out and defend their Catholic faith in their everyday life.

Sacraments

At Saint Catherine Labouré Parish we are committed to walking with young people on their journey of faith through engaging, thoughtful preparation for the sacraments. We recognize that receiving a sacrament is not just a milestone, but a profound encounter with Jesus Christ that shapes a young person's identity and mission as a Catholic. Our programs are designed to nurture a personal relationship with Christ, foster a love for the Church, and deepen each student's understanding of Scripture, prayer, and community life.


Each sacrament follows a two-year preparation process to ensure a deep and lasting understanding of God's love and the richness of the Catholic faith. Through age-appropriate formation, service opportunities, retreats, and parent involvement, we strive to help every young person grow not just in knowledge, but in faith, character, and confidence as a disciple of Jesus.

Confirmation

Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism by sealing the candidate with the gift of the Holy Spirit, strengthening them to live out their faith boldly and publicly as mature members of the Church.


Our parish is committed to walking with young people on their journey of faith through engaging, thoughtful preparation for this sacrament. We recognize that Confirmation is not just a rite of passage, but a life-changing encounter with God that deepens a teen's identity as a disciple of Christ.


Confirmation preparation follows a two-year process to allow sufficient time for prayer, reflection, learning, and spiritual growth. During this time, teens will explore the role of the Holy Spirit, the meaning of the sacraments, Catholic morality, how to live as witnesses of Christ, and the mission of the Church in the world today.


The process includes retreats, service opportunities, and active participation in parish life, helping candidates build community and see how their faith is lived out in real ways. Parents and sponsors are also invited to support and accompany their teen along the way, fostering a stronger family and faith connection.


Ultimately, the goal of Confirmation preparation is to help each teen say "yes" to God's call with knowledge, conviction, and joy—and to go forth as empowered, Spirit-filled members of the Body of Christ.


Classes are Bi-Monthly on Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m to 8:00 p.m. 

First Holy Communion preparation for both Middle School and High School

We offer First Holy Communion preparation for both Middle School and High School students who have not yet received the Eucharist. This sacrament is a beautiful and essential step in the life of a Catholic, where we receive Jesus Christ—body, blood, soul, and divinity—under the appearances of bread and wine.


Preparation follows a two-year process designed to help students grow in their knowledge of the Mass, the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, and the importance of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These two sacraments are deeply connected and are foundational to a full and active participation in the Church.


Students will engage in age-appropriate catechesis and prayer experiences, all with the goal of helping them form a personal relationship with Jesus. The program encourages family involvement, recognizing that faith grows best when it's nurtured at home and in the parish community.


Our desire is for every student to understand and treasure the Eucharist—not just as a ritual, but as the living gift of God's love and presence in their lives. By the end of the process, students will be ready to fully participate in the life of the Church through the reception of these powerful sacraments.


  • First Year classes are on Tuesdays from 4:30pm-5:45pm
  • Second Year classes are on Wednesdays from 4:30pm-5:45pm

OCIA for Teens (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults – Adapted for Youth)

Our parish is blessed to journey with teens who are seeking to become fully initiated members of the Catholic Church through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), adapted for youth. This two-year process offers a supportive and thoughtful way for young people to explore the Catholic faith and prepare to receive the sacraments.


This program is especially designed for:

  • Middle School or High School students who have not yet received their sacraments and may not have attended religion classes regularly.
  • Teens who have never been baptized or come from another Christian or non-Christian tradition and are interested in learning more about becoming Catholic.

What the Journey Looks Like:

  • Year 1 is a time of discovery. Teens are introduced to the Catholic faith, including its core beliefs, rich traditions, and prayer life. It’s a chance to ask questions and build a foundation of understanding in a welcoming environment.
  • Year 2 takes students deeper. We focus on Christian morality, the Bible, and the sacraments—what they are, why they matter, and how they connect us more closely to God and His Church.

For those preparing for Baptism, an important step occurs in Year 2 called the Rite of Election, where catechumens (those not yet baptized) meet the Bishop as they near full initiation. At the Easter Vigil, these students—if ready—will receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion, joyfully entering the Church.


It’s important to remember that this journey is unique for each person. Some may take longer or move more quickly depending on where they are in their relationship with God. We honor and support that process with care.


During their second year, all students preparing to receive the sacraments will also take part in special retreat experiences, such as the Confirmation Retreat and/or First Communion Retreat, to help them prepare spiritually for this important step in their lives.


We are excited to walk with each teen and family through this transformative journey of faith. If your child is ready to explore the Catholic Church more deeply, we welcome you with open arms.

Contact

Youth Catechesis Coordinator

Marivel Castillo

youth@stcatherinelaboure.net

Phone: (858) 277-3738

Online Registration