J2A
8th-9th Grade

J2A builds on the lessons learned in Rite-13, focusing on six necessary skills of adulthood: Listening, Assertion, Negotiation, Research and Information Management, Partnership, and Leadership. Instead of the traditional 7 th grade Confirmation, this program allows more time for study and reflection following the Rite-13 ceremony. Members of the 9 th grade class have the option of choosing Confirmation as the culmination of J2A. The hope is that our young people can make a more informed, frank, deliberate and mature decision about Confirmation around the age of 15.

Like Rite-13 group, J2A’s success is due in large part to participation and the building of community. Regular attendance is expected for the J2A classes, especially for J2A Year II: potential confirmands must have at least a 75% rate of attendance to be considered for Confirmation. Each class will also have opportunities to gather in a social setting outside the Sunday morning classroom. Activities will be planned and executed by teachers with the help of parents.

Following Confirmation, students are encouraged to go on a pilgrimage to put into practice all that they have learned over the previous weeks and months. St. James’s Summer Youth Mission is intended, at least in part, to be one option for students to make a faith-centered pilgrimage. The Diocese of Virginia provides each confirmand with a travel voucher of $200 to supplement their travel costs.

J2A classes meet weekly during the Christian Education hour on Sunday mornings.

RITE-13
J2A