Vatican II Declaration On Religious Education
"Parents must be recognized as the primary and principal educators of the children whom they have given life." (Gravissimum Educationis)
At St Catherine of Genoa, we believe that God entrusts parents as the primary educators of their children. Therefore, it is your right and your duty to become the primary role models for the development of your child's life -physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Your choice of enrolling your child in St Catherine's Religious Education Program involves commitment and exhibits a concern for helping your child to recognize God as the greatest good in his/her life. By building a moral foundation that is solid in our Catholic Faith, you are giving your children the most important gift that you can provide. It is not only your right to pass on your faith, but it is your moral duty and obligation as Catholic parents.
Our Religious Education Program
St Catherine's Religious Education program is a 27-week program, beginning in mid-September and ending in early May for children Kindergarten through 8th grade. The class schedule can be found by clicking this link: class schedule. You are invited to attend class at any time with your child. Our Catechist, aides, Father Francis and Director of Religious Education appreciate your support and are ready to assist in any way in order to make your child's year as meaningful as possible. Our Catechists put in many hours of preparation for each class but your parental involvement and homework are essential to the learning experience.
Our Curriculum
We have a family-centered catechesis curriculum from Our Sunday Visitor entitled "Alive in Christ" This program is designed to incorporate all four learning styles into each class, so all students can learn exactly as God has intended. In addition, the publishers created a "spiral curriculum" which is designed to deepen understanding and assist in memory retention. Each grade teaches the same topics each week at an age-appropriate level. Every year we are re-learning basic truths about our Catholic Faith while deepening our faith and understanding.
We have also incorporated a Family Day as well as a Family Mass in the Religious Education Schedule. These two class days are designed to bring families together, both to learn about our Catholic Faith as well as celebrate our being Catholic. During these two weekends parents are obligated to attend class with their child (Family Day) as well as participate in Mass (Family Mass) with their children. We believe the strongest teacher is a Good Example. Your personal relationship with God as well as the Church community will affect the way your child relates to God and others.
Registration
Registration forms may be obtained through the parish office, the Religious Education office or by clicking this link: Registration Form. The fee is $100.00 for 1 child. $200 for 2 children and $275 for a family of 3 or more. Please make checks payable to "St Catherine of Genoa Religious Education" We have financial scholarships available for families in severe need. No child will ever be turned away for an inability to pay, please speak to the Director of Religious Education or the Pastor to discuss your situation.
- Students registering for the first time or preparing for a sacrament will need to bring a copy of their baptismal certificate upon registration. This is a necessary document for the celebration of any sacrament.
You must be a registered member of St Catherine of Genoa parish in order to enroll your child in the Religious Education program. If you are not a member and would like to be a part of our community please join by registering with our parish secretary or clicking the link below.
Communications regarding dates, times, and places of these events are communicated through the website, Flocknote, and messages sent home with the children. Please take the time to sign up for Flocknotes or download the parish app to your phone so you will always be informed. Please see the Religious Education page on our Parish Website to learn more.
To learn more about each program please click any of the following links: