Religious Education for children in Grades 1-8
Religious Education email: [email protected]
CCD - Confraternity of Christian Doctrine - is
an association that was established in Rome in 1562 for the purpose of giving religious instruction. Religious Education Programs based on the goals and method of CCD are offered in every/Catholic parish for students in grades 1-12 who are Catholic and attending public or private schools that do not teach Catholic doctrine. Our Religious Education Program consists of formal religious education classes for grades 1-8 and a High School Youth Ministry. Details about class times and locations is available when you register. A broad outline of our catechesis for grades 1-8 is: Grade 1 - the Trinity (Who is God?) Grade 2 - preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist Grade 3 - the Church Grade 4 - morality Grade 5 - the 7 sacraments Grade 6 - the Old Testament Grade 7 - Jesus Grade 8 - Confirmation This outline is in accordance with the Archdiocesan Guidelines. A more detailed explanation of our curriculum is available in the RE office. |
What is a Catechist?
“A catechist is proof that someone is still wise enough to care about all the most important things in life. A catechist is faithful to the past, open to the future, but especially dedicated to deepening the faith of the present generation..” Volunteer catechists teach the classes. All catechists receive training before entering the classroom and on an on-going basis throughout the year(s) they teach. Every catechist is enrolled in the Archdiocesan Catechist Formation Program - a special course requirement consisting of 20 2-hour classes in spirituality, theology and methodology that culminates in catechist certification. Additional, more detailed course work of 40 hours, is encouraged and gives the catechist a Level Two certification in catechesis. The Director or Coordinator of the program supports and evaluates each catechist in a variety of ways throughout the year(s) he/she teaches in the program. Children with special needs attend classes according to their needs and abilities: resources such as a volunteer adult aide working one-on-one with the child, small group work, or home study are available and discussed with the child's parents at registration. Our Religious Education Program is seen as an aid to our parents in the religious formation of their children. The Church has always seen the home - children relating to one another, to their parents and extended family members - as the primary source of religious formation. Religion class is an extension of the faith formation that occurs at home. The Director/Coordinator of the program and the staff are available to assist families in any way they can. Programs for parents are offered throughout the year. |