Child and Youth Ministry

youth formation

Welcome to Child & Youth Ministry at St. Joseph Catholic church in Wauwatosa. Our child and youth minister is Colleen Rooney.


In child ministry, we minister to the faith needs of our parish children from pre-K through 5th grades. That includes sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Eucharist.


In youth ministry, we work to support and encourage the faith of our middle and high school students. Their time includes sacramental preparation for Confirmation.
Religious Education

See our Sacramental Preparation page for more information on preparation for First Communion and Confirmation.


Children's Liturgy of the Word (CLOW)

At the 10:30 a.m. Mass from October through April, students preschool through 2nd grade are called to attend Children’s Liturgy of the Word. Students are dismissed from Liturgy to hear and discuss the first, second and Gospel readings. Participants then conclude in prayer, and return to the church to rejoin the congregation.


Curriculum and Resources

Coming Up in Child and Youth Ministry


Youth Masses

Our next Youth Mass is Sunday, May 11, at the 10:30 a.m. Mass. We are looking for volunteers. All 2nd through 11th graders, both school and parish families, can volunteer to be part of a youth Mass.  (2nd Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Mass between September and April). There will be a sign-up table in the narthex (Center Street entrance) on May 3 and 4.


Mission of Mercy 

Looking for a local summer service camp? St. Joe's is hosting a Monday through Thursday service experience for 6th-9th graders (fall 2025), July 14-17. We will serve in the Milwaukee and Waukesha area, beginning and ending each day at St. Joe's. Drop off is at 7:30 a.m. and pick up is at 4 p.m. with a special ice cream social on Thursday for all family members.  This will include daily Mass, adoration, praise and worship, games, scavenger hunts and service to the local community. Register.

Mission Trip 2025 – Alive in You

Alive In You camp fees cost $380 per participant plus transportation costs. If you are able to contribute financially, we would greatly appreciate your donations.  Please use the QR code to donate.  Or use this link to donate online. Select "Give Now," then where you see "General Collection,"  scroll down to the Mission Trip 2025 option.

Thank you for your support and continued prayers.