Special Needs Faith Formation
Holy Family is pleased to be starting a new Christian Formation Program designed for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We will use a program designed by Pflaum Publishing (https://www.gospelweeklies.com/) which uses a monthly new magazine type format. Students will be exposed to simple lessons, prayers, crafts and experiences that will help them to develop their faith.
Who can enroll in the program?
- Children and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities that cannot attend Holy Family’s Summer Formation or High School Formation Program because the programs do not meet their individual needs.
Meeting Schedule
The classes will typically meet on the first Sunday of the month from 9:00-9:45am, October–May at Holy Family (271 Fourth Street Way) in the South Parish Hall. At least one adult must attend with the student. Other family members are welcome to attend.
Our hope is that families enrolled in the program also participate in Sunday Mass and other parish events throughout the year. Events and activities will be sent out to families throughout the year.
Sacramental Preparation (starting 2026-2027)
The Special Needs Faith Formation Program offers the children the opportunity to make their sacraments when they are ready for them – that includes Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Communion, Confirmation or OCIA (if they are baptized but have not received First Reconciliation, First Communion or Confirmation or if they are unbaptized).
The sacraments for the children are made when they are ready – not necessarily at the “normal” age to make the sacraments. For example, children in 2nd grade or age 7 are usually preparing for First Reconciliation and First Communion. They will make those sacraments during that academic year. If the child is not ready at age 7, the statement from the bishop’s states that those with developmental disabilities can make their sacraments when they are ready.
In our program, this decision is made mutually by the parents, their parish priest, and the Director of Christian Formation with input from the volunteer leader.
2025-2026 Special Needs Faith Formation Class dates:
- Sunday, October 5, 2025
- Sunday, November 2, 2025
- Sunday, December 7, 2025
- Sunday, January 4, 2026
- Sunday, February 1, 2026
- Sunday, March 1, 2026
- Sunday, April 12, 2026 (note second Sunday, due to Easter)
- Sunday, May 3, 2026
Classes will take place from 9:00-9:45 am at Holy Family Catholic Community (South) Parish Hall, 271 Fourth Street Way, (Enter the glass office doors to the North of the Church, go past the reception area, turn left and it will be the first doors on your right hand side)
More information will be sent in September.
To sign up for the program, please click here.
Contact Julie Baltz at baltz63@gmail.com for more details regarding curriculum or Sabina Carter at scarter@hffdl.org for logistics.