WHAT WE DO

Catechesis is instruction and formation in the Catholic faith, both for those who are preparing to be baptized and for those who are already baptized but in need of continuing instruction and formation according to their age and their level of maturity in the Christian life. The Elementary Faith Development program:

• lays the foundation for developing Christian attitudes, values and behavior in a child's earliest years;
• presents religious concepts in accord with a child's age and capacity for understanding and growth in faith;
• approaches children with reverence for their God-given gifts and assists them in making an increasingly personal response to God;
• assists children in the growth of their personal prayer life and spirituality;
• adapts the process for conscience formation according to age, understanding and the circumstances of life;
• integrates liturgical and Eucharistic formation with religious education;
• provides an environment for young people to grow, especially through the witness of adults;
• instills a sense of mission and concern for others;
• fosters a sense of community;
• encourages the use of imagination, critical reflection, and memory in age-appropriate ways;
• reinforces the role of parents as the first and foremost catechists of their children.

LITURGICAL CATECHESIS and FAITH FIRST LEGACY

Liturgical catechesis uses the sacraments, the rhythms of the liturgical year, and the cycle of Sunday readings as the foundation upon which we are formed in our relationship with God and in understanding of our faith. When we hear the Word proclaimed in a liturgical celebration, when our faith is strengthened through the sacraments, we develop a greater sense of the person of Christ and a deeper understanding of Catholic teachings and traditions.

This vision needs practical expression, for which we use the “Legacy Edition” of the “Faith First” faith development program, published by RCL Benziger. The Faith First Legacy program encourages liturgical catechesis and incorporates the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church -- creed, sacraments, prayer, and morality -- at every grade level. The program also integrates the Lives of the Saints into regular lessons. Each child receives a Faith First textbook, which is usually kept in the classroom until the end of the year, when it should be taken home and treasured. One special feature is a weekly take-home page for children to share with their families. The Faith First website contains excellent resources for catechists, parents and children, and we encourage you to explore it.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

The foundation for children’s sacramental preparation is their family’s commitment to weekly worship together at Mass, participation in Faith Development, and a continued practice of and formation in the faith after their children have celebrated First Eucharist. Preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist is a two year process which usually takes place in First and Second Grade for children who have been baptized in the Catholic faith. This program includes two family Retreats.

Baptized Catholic Children older than Second Grade may prepare for the Sacraments through the special Sacramental Preparation program, and unbaptized children aged seven or more may prepare to become Catholics, through Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, with their parents’ permission, through the RCIA Adapted for Children program. See the full Sacramental Preparation policy.