In grades one through six we use materials from Resources for Christian Living (RCL). For all non-Sacrament classes we are using their Faith First series. All the texts in this series are divided into three main parts: Doctrine, Scripture, and the Liturgical Seasons. The doctrines taught in Faith First are drawn from the four pillars of faith as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The four pillars treated under Doctrine are Creed, Worship and Sacraments, Morality, and Christian Prayer.

Scripture is included in every chapter of Faith First. Each unit has core Scripture chapters that include studying the Bible background, reading a complete Scripture story, and deepening the students' understanding of the meaning of the story.

The liturgical seasons are taught to their fullest in a separate strand. Learning about and celebrating the cycle of the liturgical year helps children enter into the Paschal mystery and to take part in these seasons more fully.

In third grade we prepare our students for the reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. We are again using materials from RCL. The texts seek to integrate Scripture, Ritual, Doctrine, and Liturgy.

Children, parents and catechists can all benefit from using the RCL website ( www.FaithFirst.com ).

Our Junior High students use texts published by Harcourt. They are part of a series called Crossroads. In the seventh grade year, the two modules are “Old Testament” and “Jesus in the New Testament.” Obviously the year is dedicated to an overview of Scripture. In the eighth grade year the two modules are “Apostles Creed” and “Morality.” We thus seek to review basic foundational Catholic beliefs and explore the very important area of moral decision making.

The Junior High years are also considered as preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation, which is conferred in the fall of the students' ninth grade year. Students are expected to attend Mass regularly and to turn in signed bulletins to attest to this attendance. Students must also perform 20 hours of community service. In the eighth grade year, the students are tested on their overall knowledge and understanding through a written test and an interview.

In the fall of the students' ninth grade year, the students are regarded as “Confirmandi” or candidates for Confirmation. They all must attend a retreat and a few content sessions as final preparation for receiving the Sacrament.

Many of our students graduate from the catechetical program into the parish youth group. More information is provided elsewhere on this site.