Programs for Children & Youth

To learn about programs and faith formation opportunities for children and youth at OLPH, click on the button for the appropriate age group.  For additional questions about any of our programs, contact our Coordinator of Religious Education, Barbara Hairfield, at christianformation@olphsalem.org.

Nursery

Enjoy Mass knowing your littlest ones are in great hands! We offer a safe, loving nursery environment for children ages 6 months to 3 years during the 10:30 am Sunday Mass. Check-in starts at 10:15 am. 


Caregivers are background-checked and eager to welcome your child. To register or get more details, send a quick note to Kalley Fechko, our Nursery Coordinator, at kefechko@gmail.com.

Preschool

Preschool is for children ages 3, 4 and 5 who have not yet started kindergarten. Preschool class is held from 10:30 am - 11:30 am on Sunday mornings from mid-September through the end of April. The curriculum introduces children to the Church and to the Mass and provides introductory lessons on the life of Jesus. Children come to know how about God through Scripture, prayer, ritual, and games in a loving and active learning environment. Classes are not held on the first Sunday of the month.

Register

K-12

Classes for Grades K-12

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade meet from 9:00 am - 10:15 am on Sunday mornings. Classes begin in mid-September and run through the end of April. Lessons provide a developmentally appropriate overview of the teachings of the Catholic faith as well as opportunities for the students to reflect on their personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the Church. No religious education classes are scheduled for the first Sunday of the month.


Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a weeklong faith experience for children ages 3-12.  VBS is held for one week during the month of June from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. This week of faith and fun includes music, arts and crafts, storytelling, games and snack time. 


Register

Youth Ministry

Our Youth Ministry serves teens in Middle and High School, helping them to encounter the love of Jesus Christ in the Church, the sacraments, and each other. 


We meet for Youth Ministry during Religious Education on Sunday mornings from 9:00 am - 10:15 am. We also meet for social events and service projects throughout the year.  Typical activities are shown below.


  • Hikes with the pastor (McAfee's Knob, Cascades, etc.)
  • Family Game Nights
  • Youth Christmas Party
  • Serving meals at the Rescue Mission of Roanoke
  • Collecting and organizing donations for Catholic Charities to help children and families 
  • Pancake Breakfasts to support charitable causes
  • Diocesan Youth Conference in Richmond in February
  • Diocesan Fearless Retreat in April

Volunteering to Work with Children and Youth

We are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to support our faith formation programs for our children and youth. You don't need a degree in theology to make a difference — the most important qualification for our leaders and aides is simply a desire to help children experience God's love and participate actively in our faith community.


We will equip you with all the training and resources you need to feel confident. Please note that because we deeply value the safety of our children, all adult volunteers must pass a background check and participate in the VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children safety program. Email Barbara Hairfield, Coordinator for Religious Education, at christianformation@olphsalem.org to learn how you can help.