Faith Stepping Stones is a ministry for children ages birth through high school graduation that brings parents and their children together at the altar seven times in each child’s life to bless the child, gift the family, and call the parents back to the promises made in Baptism.   The steps are:

1. Baptism
   All children Baptized at Holy Cross will receive a Faith Chest, Baptismal Shell, and card at their Baptism.  Parents and their children will then be invited to meet with other parents and children on January 8, 2011, at 9:30 am when we get together to talk about faith and the young child.  Children will then receive a blessing and gift during worship on Sunday, January 9, 2011.
2. Entry Into Sunday School
   Three year old children and their parents will be invited to a Faith Stepping Stones Activity next September and then receive a blessing and gift during worship.
3. First Bibles
   Third grade children and their parents will be invited to a Faith Stepping Stones Activity next September and then receive a blessing and new Bible during worship.
4. First Holy Communion
   A First Communion program is offered for all fifth grade students and older youth who have not yet had first communion instruction. Classes will be held on Wednesday evenings, beginning February 2.  The Rite of First Holy Communion will be held on Sunday, March 6, 2011, during the 11:00 am worship service.
5. Entry into Confirmation
   Seventh grade students who are entering Confirmation and their parents will be invited to a Faith Stepping Stones Activity next September and then receive a blessing and new Bible during worship.
6. Confirmation
   The second year confirmation class (8th grade) will be confirmed on Sunday, May 15, 2011.  Meet our Confirmands during a reception to be held in their honor during the Sunday School hour.
7. Graduation from High School
   High School Graduates Recognition Sunday will be held May 1, 2011.  There will be a special blessing during the 8:15 a.m. worship service, and a gift will be presented to each high school graduate. Come enjoy refreshments and greet our graduates during the reception to be held in their honor from 9:15 – 9:45 am that morning.