“The aim of catechesis is to lead believers to a deeper knowledge and love of Christ and the Church and a firm commitment to follow him” (National Directory for Catechesis). Focusing on Jesus as the very center of catechesis, the goal of the St. Theresa Religious Education Office is to promote the knowledge of faith, meaningful participation in liturgical worship and the sacramental life of the Church, offer moral formation, teach prayer, and lead believers to become Disciples of Christ.
Admission to our program is first given to registered, practicing parishioners of St. Theresa Parish. Once the needs of our parishioners have been met, non-registered parishioners may enroll in the program. If your child is entering our program for the first time, a copy of the child’s baptismal certificate is required. If your child has participated in Religious Education in another parish, the name and address of the parish need to be provided as well as the dates and grades the child attended.
Children who are in 2nd grade and have not received any formal religious education will be placed in 1st grade for that year and will make First Reconciliation and First Communion in 3rd grade. If a child is in 3rd grade or older and has not received any formal Religious Education, that child will be placed in a children’s catechumenate class for one year as an introduction to the faith life at St. Theresa. In the children’s catechumenate class, students will be prepared for First Reconciliation and First Communion.
There is a tuition and book fee for Religious Education each year to cover expenses. No child will be denied Religious Education due to an inability to pay if a parent contacts the Director of Religious Education. Financial Assistance and payment plans are available.
It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to inform our office of any learning disability, emotional or physical difficulty, or other problem that may require the special attention of our staff. This can be noted on the medical release form or by written documentation. All information will be held in strict confidence.
Curriculum: St. Theresa Religious Education will continue to use the Faith and Life Series by Ignatius Press for kindergarten through 7th grade. Confirmation classes will continue to use the Journey of Faith Handouts by Liguori Press and Confirmed in the Spirit by Loyola Press. All series chosen have been approved by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops, Archdiocesan Office for Catechesis, are in conformity of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and are free of doctrinal or moral error.