Children’s Formation
Our Grade School Children
Ongoing Formation
Ongoing formation for our grade school children is focused on helping our young people know the great story that is at the center of the Catholic faith and how the rest of our beliefs tie into the story. Grade school students have the option of enrolling in The Big Picture and/or a Catholic school each year to receive ongoing formation.
First Reconciliation and First Communion
Typically, preparing for First Reconciliation and First Communion begins at the start of 2nd grade. It is expected that at minimum, in the year leading into and during the sacramental preparation year, the student is also actively attending ongoing formation through The Big Picture or a Catholic School. Visit the children’s sacramental preparation page to learn more.
Other Sacramental Needs
If your child is need of Baptism or receiving other sacraments for the first time after 2nd grade, we are happy to accompany them on that journey and help them prepare. Just reach out via email!
Our 3 - 6 Year Old Children
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
CGS is a Montessori based, religious formation opportunity that highlights the religious values of childhood, primarily contemplation and enjoyment of God. This experience is shared in a place particularly prepared for the religious life of children called the Atrium. Work and instruction in the Atrium flows from and points to the Mass and liturgical life of the Church, helping our children enter into a relationship with Jesus. Our Level I Atrium can accommodate children between the ages of 3 and 6.
If you are an adult interested in becoming a catechist for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, reach out to Bridget Daniels! We would love for more adults to become catechists, so we can grow CGS in our parish!
CGS Schedule 2026 - 2027
We are so excited to help the young children of our parish grow closer to Jesus in the our Atriums this year!!
Children enrolled in SJS full time 4K will have it part of the school curriculum.
Kindergarten children will have an optional session after the school day on Thursdays. This will fit within our after-school care hours, for families who are already enrolled; it will also be available for other interested SJS families with kindergarten children.
We will have two options for children who do not attend SJS: on Wednesday AM (9:00 - 10:30) in Waunakee and Thursday PM (5:30 - 7:00) in Dane.
Family Connections
Welcoming New Little Ones
Moms throughout the Parish would love to support other families as they welcome new babies into their families by providing meals! Send us an email or fill out this Google Form, and we will connect with you about your preferences and how to best support you during this exciting time.
Connecting with Other Young Moms
We have a Facebook Group for Moms of Infants and Children in the Parish. We would love for you to join and create community with other moms in the same state of life. If you don’t have Facebook, email Katie to be added to the list for updates and to get connected with other moms.
Connect with Other Families
Throughout the Parish, there are groups of families that meet monthly or every other month to share in the journey of parenthood and family life together. These gatherings are often centered around meals, potlucks, learning more about the Catholic faith, and time for children to play together. If you are interested in receiving information about future gatherings, we would love to hear from you.