Youth Formation

Youth Formation at St. Joseph University Parish

Our model of formation is lectionary based because Sunday worship is the source and summit of our week. Children attending Catholic school do not need to attend but must come to Sacramental Preparation with the parish. Supporting our families with a variety of scheduling options helps engage our families in our ministry and helps families grow in faith.

(photo of our annual high school hike 2024)

Sacraments for Children

Baptism:
Baptism is God’s most meaningful and magnificent gift and the basis for all of Christian life. It leads us to life in Christ. By our baptism we are freed from original sin, we become children of God, we are part of the church and sharers in the mission as disciples.

For children under the age of 7 (including infants), parents should contact Patty Spear (833-0298 ext. 312) for further instructions on preparation for Baptism.

For children over the age of 7, parents should contact Diane Brennan (833-0298 ext. 310) or email dbrennan@stjosephbuffalo.org to discuss the Rite of Christian Initiation. You may also contact Diane using the below form.

Reconciliation:
Reconciliation is the sacrament of forgiveness which allows us to repair our relationship with God and the Church which we damage through sin. Youth in grade 2 or older from Catholic or public school who are receiving faith formation, are eligible to prepare to receive the sacrament of First Reconciliation. We begin in October. Parents should contact Diane Brennan (833-0298 ext. 310) or email dbrennan@stjosephbuffalo.org.

Reconciliation Registration Form 2024-25

Reconciliation Calendar 2024-25

The community has the opportunity to go to Reconciliation several times throughout the year at parish penance services, at weekly confessions on Saturday at 3:30pm in the church or by appointment by calling the parish office at 833-0298.

First Eucharist:
Eucharist is the sum and the summary of our faith. Young people in grade 3 or older from Catholic or public school, are eligible to receive the sacrament of First Eucharist. Youth must have made their First Reconciliation a year or more in the past and be continuing in faith instruction. Sessions begin in February with a parent meeting, then eight student sessions and a family retreat. Catechists, provide unique activities and hand-on learning to prepare for the sacrament.

First Eucharist Registration Form 2024-25

First Eucharist Calendar 2024-25

Middle School Ministry

All young people in grades 6th-8th are invited to be a part of our fun and engaging faith events and programs.

• Friday Fun and Faith: Each of our monthly middle school gatherings has a different seasonal faith focus. We gather in the Community Room from 6-8 PM for games, interactive activities and prayer to grow in faith, meet new people and of course have fun! Pizza is served at every gathering and everyone is asked to contribute to the pizza fund.
• Service Events: What better way to grow as a disciple than to serve one another? St. Joseph’s Middle School Ministry offers many service activities for you to get involved including making lasagna for local homeless shelters, reading stories to young children and others.
• Social Activities: Lasertron and mini-golf, are just some of our past social events. Check out the current calendar for our upcoming events.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word

Children’s Liturgy of the Word is a part of mass for children age 4 to 10 which occurs during our 10 am and 11:30 am masses. If parents have a child younger than 4  we ask you to accompany them to Children’s Liturgy. This special time allows children to hear Scripture in a way that is meaningful to them. Trained teams provide the instruction.

High School Formation

Our unique program for high school students in grades 9-12 is for all youth in both Catholic and public schools. Our process encourages youth to grow in faith and confidence in their own talents and abilities as disciples. It consists of two semesters in fall and winter. Meetings will be on Sunday nights from 4:45 to 6:45 p.m. This time frame allows families to attend the 7pm student mass together. We share a meal at each session.

Using Sacred Scripture as a resource and by inviting guest speakers, we hope to build a vibrant faith life for our high school youth using technology and digital tools building relationships with one another and with the team of peer and adult leaders. The added component of service allows them to build relationships, work together and earn service time while fulfilling their baptismal call as disciples.

High School Registration 2024-25

High School Formation Calendar 2024-25

Confirmation for Teens

Confirmation 2024-25 Registration Form  

Confirmation 2024-25 Calendar

Confirmation Interviews- Click here to sign up:

for week one: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4BABAE23A5FE3-50082678-confirmation#/

for week two:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4BABAE23A5FE3-50082964-confirmation#/

Confirmation is the sacrament which brings about the fulfillment and completion of baptismal grace. Formation for the sacrament of Confirmation is for high school youth in grades 10-12. This is a team effort of our Director of Mission Integration, Patty Spear and our Director of Lifelong Faith Formation, Diane Brennan along with parents and peer leaders. The program begins in August with students confirmed in the spring. Comprised of a mini-retreat, monthly sessions with dinner provided, service and finally culminating in a day long retreat, our youth are encouraged to grow and dialogue with another as they grow in discipleship.