Welcome to the Religious Education Program at Saint Mary Parish

 

St. Mary Parish offers Religious Education classes for children in First Grade 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 Holy Eucharist

Children ordinarily receive First Eucharist when they are in grade two. Children must attend grade one before entering the First Eucharist class. Older children who have not received First Eucharist will be placed in their regular grade level the first year. The following year, those children must attend a special First Eucharist class in addition to their regular grade level class.

 

 

Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation requires two full years preparation. Children must attend grades 7 and 8 before entering the Confirmation class in grade 9. Any student who missed two or more years of formal religious education must attend the Faith development class in addition to their regular class. Students at Catholic schools are the exception.