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Children's Faith Formation |
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2010-2011 Academic Year
Elementary Faith Formation Program VOLUNTEER CATECHISTS/AIDES NEEDED!
Our program meets on Sunday mornings from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. at the St. Bartholomew School. We are currently discerning which catechetical program we will be using for next school year. To volunteer contact Pam Kramer: pkramer_stb@yahoo.com or 379-9353, ext. 242. CATECHIST AND CLASS AIDE TRAINING IS PROVIDED!
First Grade
Students focus on the theme of the Holy Trinity. The children are taught that God, our Creator, made each person special. They learn tht Jesus, the Son of God, is our friend and brother, and that He is human. They also learn that the Holy Spirit is our source of strength, peace and joy. Also, they will begin to see how they belong to the Church through their Baptism and First Communion. A special seder is also planned for these children during the Lenten season to help them prepare for their First Communion that will take place in the 2nd grade. Children must attend 1st and 2nd grade in order to receive their sacraments in 2nd grade.
Second Grade
Students will be preparing for their First Communion and First Reconciliation. Preparation focuses on the themes of: Thanks and Praise, Celebrating, Praying, Gathering as Community, God's Word, Christ's Body and Blood, Serving Others, Everlasting Life, Following Jesus, God's Love, Jesus, and Forgiveness. In addition to class gatherings, the children will also attend special liturgies which center around these faith themes. These liturgies will take place at St. Bartholomew Church during 5 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. on Sunday.
Third Grade
Students focus on the Church. Students learn about the traditional marks of the Catholic Church and some of the beliefs held by Catholics. This is done through a study of the Apostles' Creed. All seven sacraments are studied and children will take a closer look at Mary, the Mother of God, and the role she plays in our Church. This issue of Christian morality is looked at through the Ten Commandments along with Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. Third graders participate in the Faith 2000 Assessment as well.
Fourth Grade
The faith theme is morality. Using the Beatitudes, moral values are observed by examining the lives of people who have exemplified them. The students see God as merciful and always ready to forgive. They see Jesus as an example of Christian life and love. Students focus on choosing to do good, following the call to love, and respect for God and all people. They look at the Holy Spirit as our helper and our guide in times of temptation.
Fifth Grade
Students center on the study of the seven sacraments. The persons of the Trinity are presented as they relate to the sacraments. Students learn that God gave us the ultimate sacrament in Jesus. They also learn that love continues through us to the world in the Spirit of God. The Church is seen as a Sacrament - the sign to the world of the love of God for His people. People are seen as the best sign of God's presence, and all creation is seen as reflecting His existence. Students understanding of morality is strengthened as they learn what it means to live as faithful followers of Jesus. |
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Sixth Grade
Students will be focusing on the Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures. They learn that it is in the study of the Hebrew Scriptures that we find the roots of our faith. God is taught as the Creator who cares deeply for His people and interacts in their lives. Jesus is seen as the fulfillment of the Old Testament, the one who brings a new covenant and who proclaims the coming of the Kingdom of God. A study of morality is woven throughout. The concept of Church is taught as the continuation of the Kingdom of God. The seven sacraments and celebration symbols are traced through the Hebrew Scriptures. Also, sixth graders will participate in the Faith 2000 Assessment.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC)
Rite of Christian Initiation of Children is provided for students grades 4-6 who desire Baptism and Eucharist. These individuals may be new to the Catholic faith or perhaps did not receive the sacrmament at the "normal" time. Students study various aspects of the Church including; the Seven Sacraments, the Trinity, Ten Commandments, Beatitudes, the saints and more. Those who desire to receive Baptism and Eucharist usually do so at the Easter Vigil.
Children's Liturgy of the Word (CLOW)
CLOW is a celebration of the Lectionary geared towards children. During the 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses on Sunday mornings, children in Kindergarten through fourth grade are invited to participate in Children's Liturgy of the Word. Unlike Religious Education classes, students do not have to be registered to participate in CLOW. Attendance is not recorded.
Volunteers to facilitate CLOW are always welcome and NEEDED. Contact the Faith Formation Office: Pam Kramer, pkramer_stb@yahoo.com. Training is provided.
Vacation Bible School
Catholic Vacation Bible School is offered for one week in the month of June for children from age 4 yrs. up to the fifth grade. Registration begins in the month of April. Volunteers Needed!
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Children's Adoration (Family Holy Hour)
Once a month during the school year children and their parents are invited to adore Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament with prayer, scripture, silence and song. Adoration takes place in the church and lasts about 45 minutes to one hour. Days and times are advertised in the church and school bulletins.
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