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OCIA

Religious Education

Grow in Faith. Deepen Your Knowledge. Draw Closer to Christ.

St. Mary's offers opportunities for people of all ages to learn, grow, and live the Catholic faith — at St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Astoria, Oregon.

A parish that teaches

Formation for every season of life.

The Church does not ask us to finish learning. From a child's first Sign of the Cross to an adult's long search for truth, Catholic education is a way of remaining close to Christ — in Scripture, in the sacraments, and in the life of this parish.

Religious Education at St. Mary serves kindergarten through fifth grade (Penance and First Holy Communion), Youth Group for grades 6 through high school, and Adult Education — OCIA for those exploring the Catholic faith.

A sacred image at St. Mary, Star of the Sea

For families & catechists

Find what you need.

Schedules, the calendar, announcements, the handbook, and learning materials live here — so parents, students, and catechists have one place to look.

  • 01

    Content & Videos

    Articles and lessons on OCIA, children's formation, Confirmation, and the worship of the Church.

    Explore content
  • 03

    Class Schedules

    Registration begins in August. Weekly OCIA classes begin in the Fall.

    View class schedule
  • 04

    Calendar

    A general guideline for the Religious Education year.

    View calendar
  • 05

    Handbook

    How to register and how to reach Marty Dursse, Director of Religious Education.

    View handbook

Explore our programs

Paths of formation.

Each path is coordinated by Religious Education. Registration begins in August. If you are new to the parish, please call the office.

  • 01

    OCIA

    Explore the Catholic faith and journey toward full communion with the Church.

    Audience

    Adults interested in learning about Catholicism.

    Explore OCIA
  • 02

    Adult Faith Formation

    Bible studies, Catholic teaching, theology, apologetics, and discussion for adults who wish to keep growing.

    Audience

    Adults seeking ongoing Catholic formation.

    Learn more
  • 03

    Youth Religious Education

    Religious education for young people growing in friendship with Christ and His Church.

    Audience

    Children and teenagers in the parish community.

    Learn more
  • 04

    Sacramental Preparation

    Formation for children, teens, and adults preparing to receive the sacraments.

    Audience

    Children, teens, and adults preparing for the sacraments.

    Learn more
  • 05

    Children's Faith Formation

    Helping children know Jesus, love the Church, and grow in prayer at a pace meant for them.

    Audience

    Children and their families.

    Learn more
  • 06

    Confirmation

    A dedicated path of preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation.

    Audience

    Youth and adults preparing for Confirmation.

    Learn more
  • 07

    First Communion

    A dedicated path of preparation for First Holy Communion.

    Audience

    Children and families preparing for First Holy Communion.

    Learn more
  • 08

    Marriage & Family

    Catholic marriage and family life at St. Mary, Star of the Sea.

    Audience

    Couples, parents, and families of the parish.

    Learn more
  • 09

    Other Classes

    A flexible home for future classes, Bible studies, workshops, retreats, and special formation events.

    Audience

    Parishioners and guests, according to each offering.

    Learn more

All are welcome

From first questions to a lifetime of faith.

01

Children & youth

Age-appropriate catechesis, sacramental preparation, and a place to grow in prayer among friends.

02

Adults

OCIA for those exploring the Church, and ongoing formation for those who already belong.

03

Families

Marriage and family formation, when offered — because the faith is first taught at home.

Quaerite et invenietis

We would be glad to walk with you.

If you are unsure which program fits, begin with a conversation. The parish will help you find the right door.

Contact the parish

Or write to us on the contact page.