Family Faith Formation
Religious education

Forming our children in the Catholic faith is a sacred responsibility and an essential part of helping them grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. Our Religious Education program is designed to nurture that faith through a combination of Family Catechesis and classroom instruction. This model reflects the Church’s teaching that parents are the primary educators of their children, especially in matters of faith, and seeks to support families in living out the Gospel together.

Our Religious Education program for students in grades 1–8, known as Family Catechesis, is held on Wednesday evenings at St. Francis Xavier in Lake Mills and on the St. Henry grounds in Watertown. Through prayer, Scripture, sacramental preparation, and faith formation, children are invited to deepen their understanding of God’s love and the teachings of the Catholic Church. At the same time, parents are encouraged to grow alongside their children in faith and discipleship. At least once each month, parents attend a Family Catechesis session with their child(ren), fostering meaningful opportunities for families to learn, pray, and grow together. Students in 2nd grade begin their preparation to receive the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.

Students in grades 9–12 participate in Youth Ministry, which meets on Wednesday evenings at St. Francis Xavier in Lake Mills and on the St. Henry grounds in Watertown. Youth Ministry seeks to inspire young people to embrace their Catholic faith more fully through prayer, community, service, and ongoing formation. This program also prepares students to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation in 10th grade, strengthening them with the gifts of the Holy Spirit as they continue their journey of faith.