Faith Formation for Children

Religious Education 

(Confraternity of Christian Doctrine)

The Parish of St. Joseph- St. Teresa of Avila welcomes your child to our religious education program. We offer programs for sacramental preparation, Faith Formation and RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation for Children). Please choose the one that is pertinent to your child. If you have any questions, please contact the rectory office at (718) 638-1071 or by Email at [email protected].

Sacramental Preparation Program

First Communion is a 2-year program, where children learn how Jesus calls them to a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him through the Eucharist. In order to begin this sacrament, your child must be over 6 years of age and received their Baptism.


The 1st year is called Pre-Communion

The 2nd year is called First Communion

Confirmation is a 2-year program, where your teen begins to learn how Jesus calls them to use their talents for a greater mission. Your child explores their faith through a youthful lense, builds community, deeper prayer life and community service. In order to begin this sacrament, your child must be at least in the 7th grade and received their Baptism and First Communion.

The 1st year is called Pre-Confirmation

The 2nd year is called Confirmation

Rite of Christian Initiation for Children Program (RCIC)

RCIC is a three-year program that prepares children over the age of 13 and are in need of all three sacraments and missed the age period to receive the sacrament of baptism. This program is designed to fulfill all three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion). The class includes sacramental  preparation, instruction of the Catholic faith and Mass Liturgy.

Faith Formation Program

Faith Formation is designed for children who are in non-sacramental years. These years help your child learn more about our Catholic faith through the study and discussion of Sacred Scriptures and traditions.



Protecting Our Youth

To Learn more about Child Lures Prevention and read the Letter from Bishop Robert Brennan click on the tab below: 

Visit Diocese Page

Do you need to report a case? Click Here


Online Payment

You can now start paying online. Once you’ve spoken to the religious director about the cost of the class. You can pay through our website by scanning the QR code down below. It will direct you to Give Central to make the payment. 


Catholic Schools of Brooklyn and Queens

With elementary academies and schools spread throughout Brooklyn and Queens, Catholic education is always close at hand. Visit catholicschoolsbq.org to explore the options in your neighborhood and schedule a tour today.

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy: SFACA Principal Letter- St. Joseph-St. Teresa.pdf