First Sunday is a home-based family faith formation program that meets monthly from October to May. It is supported by monthly gatherings of children and parents who receive input in preparation for the coming weeks of parental instruction. The catechists lay the foundation and the parents build the house.

Parents attend an adult presentation on the topic of the month as presented in the religion text. Parents must attend the adult session - this sets an example for the children that we are always growing in faith. Presenters are drawn from the Parish staff and other qualified outside speakers.

Children attending the program are divided into small age-appropriate groups that meet for one hour and fifteen minutes each First Sunday. The core instruction is done by the parents in the weeks between First Sunday sessions. This allows for individualized instruction, meeting each child's learning needs.

Our catechists are University students who generously give of their time and talents during the monthly support sessions. The children gather in age appropriate groups and receive instruction about the coming Unit in their text. Each group has two - four catechists and the children are thrilled to have University students relate to them.

Having the University students as catechists allows our Parish to be faithful to the reason for our founding - to serve as the Catholic Campus Ministry for the University of Michigan.

Participating families are also required to be contributing members of the Parish and are expected to volunteer for various activities.

Families are kept together and attend one of three sessions: 8:00am, 11:00am or 1:00pm. The focal point is the 10am Mass. On First Sunday the children are the readers, servers, singers, etc. Each session is preceded by a breakfast/brunch/lunch contributed by those attending! A delicious moment in your day!

If you are interested in further information please contact:

• Sue Waters, Administrator - or call 734-663-0557 ext 229
• Sister Catherine Morgan, OP, Director - or call 734-663-0557 ext 234

Watch the bulletin for registration information.

General registration takes place late August to early September. Sacramental registration (First Communion and Confirmation) takes place in the spring.