The objective of the SOR program is to invite and educate our youth into a personal knowledge and relationship with Jesus and His Church to form next generation leaders in the Faith: Priests, Deacons, Laypersons active in carrying on the treasures of our Roman Catholic Church to future generations! We support our parish by actively involving families in a Catholic community meant to help each other grow in love and knowledge of God, our faith, and of fellowship with one another. We promote catechesis and faith formation of the whole family through weekly catechesis classes, liturgically themed retreats, and celebrations that are centered on sharing the richness of our Catholic faith together in community. We offer altar server training; sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation; and Vacation Bible School (VBS) program in the summer.
The primary need of our ministry is for volunteer catechists and teachers’ aides to help weekly on Sundays with our SOR classes throughout the school year. Other ways to help include planning and leading VBS and family retreats, as well as serving food at retreats and receptions! Please offer up your prayers and sacrifices for our families and children involved in our program. Everyone can benefit from participation in and support of our program. It is primarily for the children, parents, and families of our youth, but all parishioners and newcomers are welcome to visit and enjoy the beauty of our program. It is truly such a joy and honor to invite the next generation of Catholics and their parents into a deeper encounter with Christ and to see them grow in knowledge and love of the Lord with their peers and families.
Registration for the 2026-2027 year will take place at our OLL Parish Picnic on August 30th or you may register any time before that. Requirements:
- Your TIME: Bring your children to Mass each week and to School of Religion Class when in session.
- Your TALENT: Catechists are needed, as are assistants and office help. Please contact: <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>
- Your TREASURE: It takes $$ to run this program. Registration fees due at registration = $40 per child/ max $90 per family
- We ask that you give what you can; No one will be turned away; if you are able, consider offering scholarship to a family in need. Giving more will help offset those who cannot.
- Parents are recognized as the primary teachers of faith and are asked to attend monthly meetings held during SOR class time the second Sunday of each month (Sept through April).
The parish warmly welcomes new catechists and classroom aides who wish to share their time and faith with our young people. Volunteers under the age of 18 are required to read and sign an ethical conduct statement, and have their guardian and parent sign, as well.
All adults working with children are required to complete the KCSJ diocesan Safe-Environment Training, along with State of Missouri background check and Mandatory Reporter Training. This compliance lasts for five years at no cost to you. Simple monthly bulletins are emailed to keep volunteers updated on safe practices. To become compliant with the State of Missouri and the Diocese, set up your account with VIRTUS® Online and follow prompts.
For more information or to register, contact Theresa Smith, Faith Formation Coordinator, at 816-380-5744 or <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>.
