1. Create opportunities for real, personal encounters with the living God — helping families come to know and grow in relationship with Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Pass on the fullness of our Catholic faith with love and fidelity, grounded in Sacred Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Share the faith in ways that meet people where they are — using age-appropriate and developmentally sound methods that engage both heart and mind.

Use the tools of our time — especially technology — to build up our parish family, foster connection, and proclaim the Good News far and wide.

All families participating in Faith Formation must be registered and active members of St. Theresa the Little Flower. Being an active member means attending Mass each Sunday, supporting the parish financially as you are able, and being involved in the life and ministries of our community.

Children of the parish are expected to attend their grade-level Faith Formation class each year. Formation isn’t just for Sacramental prep — it’s a lifelong journey. Consistent participation helps your child grow in faith and remain connected to the parish family.

We strongly encourage all families to enroll their children in parish Faith Formation classes. If you prefer to teach your child at home, you’ll need to submit a written request to our parish priest for approval. Once approved, you may contact the Director of Religious Education to receive the curriculum. If you wish to use a different program, please submit it for review and approval. This request and approval process must be completed each year.

Children enrolled in a Catholic school are not required to attend parish classes during Sacramental prep years, but we do ask that you notify our office with the name of the school they attend.

All students in Faith Formation are expected to attend class regularly, join us at Sunday Mass, receive Reconciliation frequently, and participate in parish life — including service opportunities — as part of their growth in the faith.

Please make every effort to get your children to class on time and pick them up promptly. Classes begin at 9:15 AM and end at 10:30 AM sharp. We value every minute we have with your child — late arrivals, early dismissals, or late pickups should be rare exceptions.

Regular attendance is essential for your child’s faith formation. If your child misses more than two classes in a row, expect a follow-up from their Catechist or the Director of Religious Education. If your family is facing a scheduling conflict or ongoing issue, please reach out — we’re happy to work with you.

If your child will be absent, please notify the Director of Religious Education in advance whenever possible. This helps us plan and support your child’s learning.

All students are expected to treat their Catechists and classmates with kindness, respect, and the dignity every child of God deserves.

We ask that students care for the materials, supplies, and classroom space they’ve been entrusted with. Stewardship begins with the little things.

If a student struggles to behave appropriately, they’ll be gently spoken to during or after class, given a chance to reflect, and encouraged to make things right. Parents will be informed of any incidents and what’s expected moving forward. If the behavior continues for more than two classes, we may ask a parent to attend class with their child or consider pausing their participation in the program.

Any form of verbal or physical aggression will not be tolerated. Every child and volunteer deserves to feel safe and respected.

Cell phones and electronic devices should remain put away during class unless the Catechist gives permission. If a device is used without permission, it will be held until the end of class. Continued issues may require a parent to come retrieve the device in person.

First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion
Preparation for these sacraments typically takes place in 2nd grade. Parents and children are expected to attend all required Sacramental Prep events and complete any assignments or projects together. If your child is older and has not yet received these sacraments, please reach out to the Director of Religious Education so we can walk that journey with you.

Confirmation
Confirmation is celebrated in high school. To be eligible, students must have actively participated in Faith Formation the year before — which usually means completing the 8th grade class with regular attendance.
If your child is in 9th grade or above and did not attend Faith Formation last year, they’ll need to be involved in our youth ministry program this year. After a year of active participation, they can begin Confirmation preparation the following year.

Catholic School Students
If your child is enrolled in a Catholic school, they are not required to attend parish Faith Formation classes during their sacrament prep years — but we do ask that you keep us informed of their school and any key sacramental timelines.

Homeschooling Families
We honor and support you in your role as the primary educators of your children’s faith. While we don’t offer a homeschool curriculum through the parish, you are not required to enroll your children in weekly classes. However, if your child is preparing for a sacrament, please schedule a meeting with the Director of Religious Education before classes begin so we can ensure everything is in place.

1. We want to keep the lines of communication open throughout the year. Please make it a habit to check our parish website for updates: www.sttheresachurch.com. You'll also find important information in the weekly bulletin, on our Facebook page, and through Flocknote messages.

2. If you have any questions, concerns, or just want to check in, feel free to email Jeff Elbertson at jelbertson@charlestondiocese.org.

3. If you haven’t already, please join our parish Flocknote — our primary way of sending reminders and updates about class changes or special events. Just text LITTLEFLOWER to 84576 to get started.

We’re here to support you. If there’s anything we can do to help you and your family along your faith journey, don’t hesitate to reach out.