As members of the Cross in the Woods (CITW), our Sacrament Preparation program will assist your children on a journey of faith that deepens their relationship with Jesus Christ through the Sacramental life of the Church.

Per the Diocese of Gaylord policy, three years of preparation are needed, and it is starting in First grade. Children must have attended Faith Formation sessions the year prior to becoming candidates in the program, and they are also required to attend Faith Formation sessions as well in order to receive the Sacraments. Children who were not baptized here at Cross in the Woods parish, will also need a copy of their Baptismal Certificate.

Program for the 2021-2022 year meet on the following days and times:

• Year I (First Grade) – will be held on the 1st Sunday of the month starting on October 3, from 8:15-10:15 am, in the Visitor Center room. Students will explore the rich significance of the Sacrament of Baptism. Parents are required to participate in 5 hours of catechesis involvement at home.
• Year II (Second Grade) – will be held on the 1st Sunday of the month starting on October 3, from 8:15-10:15 am, in the Longhouse room. Students will study the Sacrament of Reconciliation and receive it normally around March. Parents are required to participate in 5 hours of catechesis involvement at home and to attend a retreat at the end of the program.
• Year III (Third Grade) – will be held on the last Saturday of the month but starting on December 18, from 8:00 am–Noon, in the Longhouse room. Students will study the Sacraments of First Communion & Confirmation and receive them normally around in spring time. Parents are required to participate in 5 hours of catechesis involvement at home and to attend a retreat/rehearsal at the end of the program.

If you would like to sign up, click on the “Forms” link or to get a registration packet and/or for more information, please contact the Faith Formation Office at 231-238-8973 Ext. 312 or at mcruz@crossinthewoods.com. Registration forms need to be submitted by August 30 to the Parish Office or mail it to us at 7078 M-68, Indian River, MI 49749.

All new families are welcome!