Catholic Faith Formation
At St Thomas faith formation is offered to K-8th grade, High School, College, & Adult age groups.
At St Agatha faith formation is offered to 1-10th grade.
Catholic faith formation is a lifelong journey of nurturing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This additional time devoted to learning is intended to deepen understanding of Church traditions through education and spiritual development via teaching, catechesis, prayer, and community life.
OCIA
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults or “OCIA” is the normative way to receive formation and prepare to enter the Catholic Church. This process was previously known as RCIA, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, until the U.S. bishops renamed it in 2021 to reflect a more accurate translation of the original Latin.
OCIA has four phases designed to intellectually form and spiritually prepare participants — who have attained the age of reason (generally around the age of 7) — to become Catholic: Evangelization and Precatechumenate, Catechumenate, Purification and Enlightenment, and Mystagogy.
K-8 Faith Formation
Designed to keep kids growing in knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith and our traditions, K-8 faith formation focuses on teaching children the Catholic faith through Catechesis of the Good Shepard, tradition, sacramental preparation, and prayer.
This additional time spent learning amongst peers is intended to compliment and reinforce the parent-child conversations happening at home and in church in order to foster personal relationships with Christ.
Highschool Group
High school faith formation focuses on deepening adolescent Catholic faith, strengthening discipleship, and integrating youth into parish life through Confirmation preparation, service opportunities, and theological education.
This additional time spent learning amongst peers is intended to compliment and reinforce the parent-child conversations happening at home and in church in order to foster personal relationships with Christ.
St Thomas's high school youth group meets on Wednesday nights throughout the school year. Each evening is centered on our shared love of Christ and His Church, as we come together for fellowship, fun, catechesis, service opportunities, and family faith formation.
We also offer a two-year Confirmation program for 9th- and 10th-grade students. Beginning in their freshman year, students meet monthly as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and grow in their understanding of the faith.
DSU Newman Club
The Newman Club is a college and young adult ministry centered on building meaningful relationships rooted in a shared love of Christ.
Students from Dakota State University and local young adults are invited to join us for weekly dinners and gatherings on Tuesday nights throughout the school year. Each evening begins at 7:00 PM with a shared meal, followed by fellowship, faith discussion, and opportunities to grow deeper in relationship with Christ and one another.
Throughout the year, we also offer monthly Newman Masses, as well as opportunities for Adoration and Reconciliation. Members take part in service projects, retreats, and attend national SEEK Conferences together, creating lasting friendships and a strong faith community. Whether you are exploring your faith or ready to go deeper, the Newman Club is a place to belong, grow, and discover God’s plan for your life.
