At. St. Mary's and St. Elizabeth's, we offer a Catholic faith formation program for students in grades K-12. Students in grades K-10 receive instruction from catechists every Wednesday from September until May. Our juniors and seniors are participating in separate activities that cover a variety of Catholic discipleship topics. 

We strive to provide opportunities for children to grow in their faith through instruction in Catholic beliefs and traditions, participation in prayer and Mass, and an understanding of how to live their faith each day. Grade 2 prepare to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion. Grades 7 & 8 prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmatiion every other year.

Faith Formation is the best gift we can give our children. At your child's Baptism, each parent accepts the responsibility of training their child in the practice of the faith. The Church teaches that the parent's role in the formation of Christian values in their children is irreplaceable. We want to help you in your responsibility to pass down the teachings of Jesus.

In addition to the weekly classes, school Mass is held throughout the year. The students also participate in a variety of activities, including St. Francis live animal blessing, assist with the annual Italian Dinner fundraiser, assist with the annual Fall Festival, participate in the Christmas Eve Nativity, a high school retreat, and opportunities for Confession during Lent and Advent. We also plan fun outings and field trips throughout the year that the students really enjoy.

VOLUNTEERS WELCOME: We are blessed to have a remarkable group of dedicated catechists who give their time and talent each week. Catechists provide a valuable service to our youth and families by sharing their faith and explain the teachings of the Catholic Church. You aren't required to know everything about your faith (none of us succeed in that), but be willing to share what you know and be open to learn more! Our catechists find that by teaching the faith to others, that their own faith is increased. Fees are waived for parents who volunteer as catechists. If you feel called to share the faith with our children, please contact the parish office.

St. Mary's is firmly committed to the protection of our children and young adults. The Diocese of Bismarck has developed a Safe Environment Program that is intended to effectively ensure that those who participate in our faith formation classes or participate in church-related activities in our parishes are safe. As part of the Diocese of Bismarck, we are required to provide education and training to our youth and catechists about ways to maintain a safe environment for our youth. We are also required to report our efforts to the diocese, and maintain the standards set forth in the program. 

The Diocese of Bismarck has a variety of training resources available on their Safe Environment Training page. You are encouraged to review these resources.