Making Disciples: Grades 1-8

YOUTH FAITH FORMATION (FALL THROUGH SPRING)

We offer quality faith formation programs that provide the teaching of the basic doctrines of the Church and integrate Scripture in every lesson. Youth Faith Formation (YFF) includes the prayers and practices of the Church as well as celebrating the major feasts and seasons of the liturgical year. Children will have the opportunity to pray together and form a community with other members of our program and our parish. Here are the basics:

Grades 1-8 meet in the school on Wednesday evenings, 6:15-7:30pm, starting on September 3rd, 2025 through April 29th. Drop off and pick up are at the old school gymnasium (click for map). Please see Calendars and Resources below.

St. Joseph’s Faith Formation program depends greatly on volunteer catechists. Training, lesson plans, and support are provided. Many people who decide to answer the call to the ministry of catechesis find it deepens their own faith. The time requirement is Wednesday evenings, 5:45-7:30 p.m., from September through April, plus time to prepare a weekly lesson. Catechists are generally adults but mature high school students who are willing to make a weekly commitment are welcome. Hours served can be counted for service hour requirements.

A diocesan background check and Virtus training is required for all adults working with children. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete or review the Catechist Handbook, Catechist Application, Code of Conduct, and Virtus Training Instruction.

If you have any questions about St. Joseph’s Faith Formation programs or wish to volunteer, please contact our Director of Faith Formation/Parish Evangelist, at 515-402-4733.

Registration

Faith Formation Registration for the 2025-2026 school year closed on September 15th.

Tuition for Weekly Faith Formation Programs for the 2025-2026 school year will be as follows:

$60 per child ($240 maximum per family)
A fully online (Google Forms) version of the 2025-2026 Faith Formation Registration form is linked here.
A printable version of the above form is linked here – please print, complete all sections, sign, and return with payment to the church office.
Forms of payment accepted include: cash, check, credit, or debit card. Online payments can be made here. Receipts will be provided for all transactions.
This year we are asking that at least one parent of any students involved in Faith Formation activities participate as a volunteer. Please see and complete this form for more information on the ways you can help!

The 2025-2026 YFF year kicks off with volunteer catechist orientation typically in August followed by a parent orientation. Faith Formation registration forms and payment may be submitted to the Parish Office by mail, in person, or in the collection basket (in a sealed and labeled envelope) during our weekend Masses.