Religious Education
Nurtures the hearts and minds of children, youth, and adults, guiding them to grow in a deeper, more personal relationship with God.
K thru 8th Grade RE
K–8th Grade Religious Education
Faith Formation helps children grow in their friendship with Jesus and discover what it means to live as joyful disciples. Our program is open to children from preschool through 8th grade, offering age-appropriate lessons, prayer, and community to nurture their faith journey.
encounter with Christ
First Communion
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven… whoever eats this bread will live forever.”
— John 6:51
At Mission San Luis Rey Parish, we believe that the Eucharist is not just a rite of passage—it is a sacred encounter with Christ, the Bread of Life, who nourishes us with His very presence. In the spirit of St. Francis, who adored the humility of God made present in the Eucharist, we approach this sacrament with joy, reverence, and simplicity.
Children who were baptized as infants are invited to begin preparation for First Communion and First Reconciliation as early as 2nd grade. This is a two-year formation process, typically beginning in 1st grade, and includes:
Regular participation in weekly Faith Formation sessions or attendance at a Catholic School
Additional gatherings for children and their parents during the second year
A spiritual journey that helps children fall in love with Jesus, recognize His presence in the Eucharist, and grow in a community of faith
In this journey, children are invited not just to learn about Jesus—but to meet Him, to walk with Him, and to receive Him in the most humble and powerful way: in the breaking of the bread.
“Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation is the final stage of initiation into the Catholic Church. In this sacrament, the grace received in Baptism is deepened and strengthened, sealing the candidate with the gifts of the Holy Spirit and empowering them to live as faithful witnesses of Christ in the world.
In the spirit of St. Francis, who lived the Gospel with courage and joy, we invite our teens to embrace their faith more fully—through formation, community, and prayer.
Confirmation is not graduation—it’s mission. This sacrament equips young people to live out their faith boldly in their families, schools, and communities. It marks a spiritual maturity, a renewed “yes” to walking with Christ and His Church.
At Mission San Luis Rey Parish, Confirmation is a two-year program for high school students, typically beginning in 9th grade. Teens must be at least 15 years old by the time they receive the sacrament.
Teens who are older than 15 and still in high school are welcome to join the program.
Becoming Catholic
OCIA
“Come and see.” – John 1:39
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process through which adults are welcomed into full communion with the Catholic Church. Rooted in Scripture, tradition, and community, OCIA is a journey of faith and transformation—a path toward encountering Christ and living in His love.
Who is OCIA for?
Adults who have never been baptized and wish to receive Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation
Baptized Christians from another tradition who wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church
Baptized Catholics who were never catechized and want to complete their sacraments
Anyone exploring the Catholic faith and seeking a deeper relationship with God
Our OCIA process is not just a set of classes—it’s a space for faith development, spiritual growth, and community building. Sessions focus on:
Understanding Catholic beliefs and practices
Deepening your personal relationship with God
Experiencing God’s love through the life of the Church
Participating in parish life, worship, and service
Preparing for the sacraments, typically received at the Easter Vigil