Welcome to the Religious Education Program at Saint Mary Parish

 

St. Mary Parish offers Religious Education classes for children in kindergarten through Confirmation. (Grade 9) Children should attend classes every year in order to develop a strong faith foundation.

 

Our mission is:

  • To support the religious education that occurs at home
  • To foster enthusiasm for living the Catholic faith
  • To give witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ
  • To encourage family participation in the life of the Church

Our goals are:

  • To teach the Catholic faith
  • To encourage a commitment to Jesus Christ
  • To create a community spirit that inspires active participation in parish life
  • To encourage prayer which leads to a deeper relationship with a loving God

Our parish reminds parents of their responsibility as primary instructors of our Catholic faith. It is the role of St Mary Religious Education to assist rather than replace the parental duty to nurture the faith in their children.

 

“Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone! Therefore, you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength. Take to heart these words which I enjoin on you today. Drill them into your children. Speak of them at home and abroad, whether you are busy or at rest.” (Deut. 6: 4-7)

 

 

Sacramental Programs

 

First Reconciliation and First Eucharist

The Diocese of Bridgeport requires that children attend a formal religious education for a minimum of two years before receiving a sacrament. Therefore, a child must attend one full year of formal religious education before entering the sacramental class. Children attending Catholic school must attend the sacramental preparation class for the entire year.

 

Those children who have not met the Diocesan requirements will be place on an age-appropriate class the first year. The following year, the child will be placed in the First reconciliation/First Eucharist.

 

 

Confirmation

Our students receive the Sacrament of Confirmation in grade nine. Students must attend class for three years before receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore, attendance in grades seven and nine is required.