Beginning this year, our parish will transition from the more traditional classroom based education model for Religious Education to a parish family curriculum based on the “life of the church”. All parishioners of any age are invited and encouraged to attend. We are establishing a parish-wide religious education program, so that each parishioner will know as much about Jesus, the Scriptures, the Church, our Creed, Liturgical and Prayer life and moral choices, as possible. How often has each of us thought,” I wish I knew more about my own Faith?” Each of us should be able to teach our children, grandchildren, the youth of our parish and inquirers about what Catholics believe, why and how we worship, and how we live according to those beliefs.
The first Sunday of each month, we will gather as a parish community, including the children, for 9:00 Mass, a shared meal, and for a common lesson on a specific aspect of our faith. Then as a follow-up to each lesson, each family will receive a take-home kit with related materials and suggestions for an ongoing real life shared family lesson. The lesson format may vary according to the material to be taught. We may be all together one month and then the next, break into smaller groups according to age.
In order to keep a record of the religious education of our children and measure the response to our program, we are asking everyone who will participate to register. The first session will be on Sunday, September 14th at which time we will register everyone and try to answer any questions you may have about the program. We will also present our first session “The Triumph of the Cross; Sign of Redemption”. Please plan to join us on this exciting journey into understanding our faith and passing it on.
Generations of Faith Schedule
*Please note, the children who will be entering a year of sacramental preparation, First Reconciliation/Holy Communion and Confirmation, will have additional classes throughout the year to address these special sacramental programs.
If you have any questions, please call the Religious Education Coordinator, Eileen Kendall at 885-4123 or email reledstmarys@vermontel.net