Scholars -10-12 Years Olds
The Scholars are ready to learn more about their faith on an intellectual level. Having answered the Good Shepherd's call and begin to actively seek out Jesus in the Sacraments, they build a strong foundation for their faith by studying Salvation History and the events and people of Jesus' life. Emphasis is placed on the Bible as God's Word and an awareness of how its truths relate to our own lives.
2017-2018 Syllabus and Weekly Reading Assignments:
The Beloved - 4-5 Years Olds
The Beloved are just beginning their spiritual journey. During these years, they become aware of Jesus' great love for them as they Good Shepherd and learn to follow His call as they "recognize His voice" (John 10:4). They are introduced to aspects of faith with the underlying themes of God's love, protection, and desire for personal relationship with each of us, and our response to God's invitation.
Class Schedule:
Pre-Kindergarten
Pilgrims - 12-15 Year Olds
The Pilgrims are at a point where they can set out on their faith journey. They realized they are loved by God, have moved to seek God out, and have learned about God's plan to Salvation History. An important in answering God's call to vocation is understanding the the Church and Her mission to spread the Good News. Pilgrims will study catechism and aspects of Church life to this end.
Stewards - 8-10 Year Olds
The Stewards respond to the call of the community of believers by learning different ways to participate in the life of the Church. This includes examining the Mass, practicing responses for the Liturgy, and studying the role of the acolyte. In addition to becoming familiar with the church as building, they will also review the Sacraments and the Liturgical calendar. All Stewards are encouraged to consider becoming altar servers as a ministry they can offer to the community.
Seekers - 6-8 Years Olds
The Seekers, are taking a more active role in their journey with the Lord, especially as they prepare to receive he Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist. They are briefly introduced to how God has worked in our lives throughout salvation history while discovering how He works in their lives today. They explore the historical context of Jesus to remind them that Jesus is a real person from a real place before they make the leap to seeing Him in the Eucharist. They also contemplate the parts of the Liturgy of the Eucharist through various hands-on activities.
Sacramental Preparation Guide:
Confirmandae
During their teenage years and with the approval of their parents and Deacon Swanson, the Confirmanae have individually committed to being sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Confirmation. They spend several months in preparation for this event, usingCall to Celebrate: Confirmation (Our Sunday Visitor Press) as a guide. The Confirmandae spend time reviewing their future roles and responsibilities in the Church as adults and beginning the discernment of God's vocation for them.
Confirmation Preparation Guide:
Children's and Youth Education
Traditional Classroom Cathechesis
2019-2020 Religious Education Orientation and Registration will be held on Sunday, September 8, 9:30-10:30 am in the Hall.
2018-2019 Religious Education Orientation and Registration Information:
2018-2019 Religious Education Schedule / Orientacion y Registro de la Educacion Religiosa:
2018-2019 Religious Education Participation Agreement (English):
2018-2019 Acuerdo de Educacion Religiousa (Spanish Religious Education Agreement):
The catechists in our Parish Religious Education Program are dedicated to passing on the truths of our tradition with an enthusiasm for the experienced practice of faith. They are more than willing to cooperate with parents. Formal classroom instruction is provided September through May. The parish follows the Archdiocesan Guidelines using the Harcourt Religion Text, "Call to Faith," which is supplemented with appropriate handouts, supplementary material and activities following the liturgical season.
The Religious Education System Aspires to:
**Provide Religious Education from preschool age through adults,
**Runs from September - May
**Aims for life-long journey of conversation
**Builds up stewards to serve the Body of Christ
VOLUNTEERS ARE ALWAYS APPRECIATED
Religious Education Orientation and Registration September 8, 2019, 9:30-10:30 am, in the Hall
2019-2020 Religious Education Schedule
For more information:
Liz Sabo
Pastoral Assistant for Faith Formation
St. Mary Start of the Sea Catholic Church
Office Phone: 360-385-3700
email: