Religious Education

Our Mission and Philosophy

Religious Education at Saint Mary's focuses on guiding both the children and the adults in our community as they grow in their understanding of The Catholic Church and the Catholic faith.

We believe that continuous learning throughout the formative years plays a crucial role in a child's embrace of the faith and understanding of his or her own part in the Body of Christ. Starting in Kindergarten and continuing through the High School years, children are taught by volunteer catechists under the guidance of Sr. María Romero, HJ, Director of Religious Education for the parish.

Our Approach

We offer Religious Education classes for children from Kindergarten through High School age on weekend mornings from September through April, with some sacrament programs continuing on into May. Registration for these programs occurs in the summer months, and is typically closed in late August. However, new parishioners may register their children in a religious education program at any time by contacting the Religious Education Office.

• Children in Grades 3-12 can make their First Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation by being enrolled either in St. Mary School or in the Religious Education program. In both cases, parental involvement is crucial as children prepare for their reception of the sacraments.

• RCIA, or the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, is for any adult interested in joining the Catholic Church, as well as for those who have been baptized Catholic but have not received First Communion and/or Confirmation. RCIA courses begin in September. Classes meet two times per month for six months. Participants generally receive the Sacraments (e.g. Reconciliation, Baptism, Confirmation, First Communion) in the spring, during Holy Week. If you are interested in participating in RCIA, please contact the parish office. Attending classes does not obligate participants formally to join the Church. All who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith are welcome to join.

• Our Religious Education classes are taught in English; however, we strive to ensure that there is a bilingual teacher or assistant in every classroom to assist students who are still developing their English fluency.

We look forward to working with your family to ensure that you and your children grow strong in their faith through learning in a supportive and welcoming environment.