Welcome to a new year of religious education at St. Michael parish.  Even though last year ended on an abrupt note, we are excited for the new school year and are looking forward to what we will be able to accomplish in helping your child(ren) grow in their faith under these new “social distancing” times.  We are still working to structure our programs to meet the needs of the children and provide a safe learning environment for them, as well as the teachers.  We will continue to provide information as we work through this restructuring. 

Currently, it has been decided that there will be no weekly religious education classes or Youth Group this year.  We will only be focusing on preparation for the sacraments of first communion and confirmation.   For the school year 2020 – 2021, we are offering parents and children three options for our sacramental prep classes.   These classes will be offered on a limited basis.

Option 1:  Delayed Entry - Some parents may choose to wait to have their child(ren) prepare for the sacraments next year.  This is an absolutely understandable and legitimate option with so many of us having to address changes to family life and structure and for safety reasons.  If parents choose this option, we encourage them to reach out to the parish to obtain resources on how to continue to teach the faith at home and maybe give their child(ren) a head start for next year.  For instance, children could work on learning essential catholic prayers and prayer for the growth of a personal relationship with God.  Children who opt for the delayed entry will have a space reserved for them in the sacramental prep class for the following year.

Option 2:  Blended Program:  This option will include a once a month group class at church and additional study done at home.  Most of the learning will be done at home with material provided by the parish.  Once a month (for a total of 9 sessions) the children will come together for study, review, and comprehension of work done at home, and for additional catechesis.  At each monthly meeting, children will be assessed as to if they may continue in the program or if they need to wait for classes the next year. For confirmation students, classes will be held on the 1st and 3rd Monday virtually on Zoom.

Option 3:  Stand Alone Option:  This self-paced option will be done at home with parent assistance.  This option will consist of preparation done solely by parents with an outline of what is expected to be learned in order to meet the requirements of receiving each sacrament.  Children will need to show through assessment by Father and his faith formation assessment team that they understand the important components of the sacrament for which they are requesting. 

Please note that both Option 2 and Option 3 will require heavy parent commitment and involvement.  Teachers will be available for questions and help, however, the bulk of the “teaching and follow-up” will be done by the parents.  Please do not panic - while this might seem scary or overwhelming to some parents, we will absolutely be available to help in any way possible and will walk with parents the whole way.

Children and parents should discuss seriously which option they would like to enroll in.  When deciding, please take into consideration, your ability to work independently and the time commitment involved.  Registration will open in August and parents will be asked to choose an option at that time. Until then, please continue to pray for your parish.
 

First Communion Requirement

First Communion age requirement is 2nd grade. 

Confirmation Requirements