This model of Christian formation also includes several important ritual events. For middle school students the ritual is referred to as Rite 13, marking their thirteenth birthday. It recognizes that entering the teenage years is the first of many transitions in adolescence and gives young people the opportunity to demonstrate their increasingly mature participation in community life. The second phase of the program is called J2A, for students fifteen and sixteen years old. These young people broaden their spiritual life through the experience of planning and preparing for a group pilgrimage to a site of their own choosing.
New members are always welcome.
In addition to the Sunday morning education hour, young people often participate in special events and retreats. Many young people choose to participate in the liturgical life of All Saints by volunteering as acolytes, becoming eligible in the fourth grade. Duties include carrying the cross, banners or candles, and serving at the altar. All fourth and fifth graders are introduced to the elements of the liturgy in the course of their Church School classes. Service as an acolyte does not preclude participation in the Schola.