Faith Formation

At St. Mary Magdalen Catholic School, faith is at the heart of all we do. Our mission is to help students and families grow in their relationship with Christ through a rich partnership between our school and parish. We offer formation opportunities for all ages—beginning in kindergarten and continuing into adulthood.

For Students (Grades K–8)

Faith formation at SMM is woven into everyday life and supported by both school and parish programs:

  • Weekly Mass Participation
    Students attend and participate in weekly school Masses, serving as lectors, altar servers, gift bearers, and choir members.
  • Sacramental Preparation
    School and parish work together to prepare students for First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation in coordination with families.
  • Elementary Faith Formation
    After-school or Sunday-based religious education for children not enrolled in Catholic school, but also a great resource for enrichment.
  • Middle School Faith Formation & Youth Group
    Open to all middle schoolers, including school students and parish families. Includes retreats, service projects, and opportunities to prepare for Confirmation. Click Here to learn more.
  • Altar Server Ministry
    Open to students in 3rd grade and above, altar serving is a meaningful way for children to support the liturgy and be part of something special.
  • Youth Choir
    A great opportunity for students to sing at Mass, build confidence, and help create a warm and uplifting atmosphere.
  • Junior Catholic Daughters
    Girls in 1st–12th grade can grow in faith, service, and creativity at meetings held the second Monday of each month from 4:30–6:00 PM. For more info, contact Mrs. Houghton.
  • American Heritage Girls
    A faith-based character development program for girls that emphasizes service, leadership, and Catholic values. For more information, please contact Bridget Simmons.
  • Scouts BSA
    Scouts BSA offers adventure, leadership, and community service opportunities for boys and young men, with Den meetings held monthly and by grade level. For more details, contact Scouts BSA.
  • Girl Scouts
    The St. Mary Magdalen Girl Scout Troop empowers girls through faith, service, leadership, and community activities. Troops meet weekly after school, organized by grade level. For membership details, contact Girl Scouts of Western Washington.
  • Service Projects with St. Vincent de Paul
    Youth engage in parish-wide service opportunities to learn the importance of compassion and outreach.
  • Vacation Bible School
    A summer highlight for younger students! Children explore their faith through music, games, Bible stories, crafts, and more. Older students can volunteer as crew leaders and role models.

For Adults and Families

Because faith is a lifelong journey, SMM offers many enriching and supportive options for adult growth and community:

  • Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)
    For those exploring Catholicism, seeking baptism, or completing their sacraments. A welcoming path for adults at any stage of their faith journey.
  • Weekly Bible Study
    Held Wednesday evenings at the school. A space for prayer, Scripture reflection, and spiritual discussion.
  • Young Adult Ministry
    A vibrant space for those in their 20s and 30s to connect through social gatherings, service, and study.
  • FORMED.org Access
    Free to all parishioners—this Catholic streaming platform offers studies, movies, and devotionals on demand.
  • Eucharistic Adoration
    Experience quiet prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Opportunities available weekly.
  • Rosary Makers
    Help spread devotion by crafting rosaries for mission outreach and local need.
  • Catholic Daughters of the Americas
    A group of women focused on faith, fellowship, and charitable works.
  • Knights of Columbus
    A brotherhood of Catholic men serving the Church through community, leadership, and acts of service.
  • Liturgical Ministries
    Opportunities to serve during Mass as a lector, choir member, Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, or usher.
  • Coffee & Donuts Hospitality Team
    A simple way to connect and welcome fellow parishioners after Sunday Masses.

To explore all offerings or get involved, visit the SMM Parish Ministry Handbook, Youth Faith Formation, or Adult Faith Formation pages. We are here to grow in faith—together, as one school, one parish, one community.