Today is considered the “birthday” of the Church, since it is the day that the disciples, empowered by the Holy Spirit, went forth and began to spread the “Good News” to the world. It is a great time for all of us to renew our own dedication to “Carrying Christ Beyond the Pews” by living our faith in a more intentional way. One way you might consider doing this is by sharing faith as a catechist in our Religious Formation Programs. Katie Sukley, our DRE, would be happy to speak with you regarding the responsibilities and the assistance available for our catechists. It is a great way not only of passing on the faith to others, but of strengthening our own faith. Teaching is the best way of learning, and I guarantee you will learn a lot more than the children if you embrace this ministry!
Our parish is also implementing a different approach to Sacramental Preparation for our children and youth. In order to be in conformity with what the diocese asks, our Sacramental Preparation Programs will be separated from the regular Religious Ed Programs. This means that all of the time spent in Religious Ed will be focused on the regular curriculum, while the Sacramental Prep Program will concentrate on the sacraments. It also means that all, whether educated in a Catholic school, public school or another program, will join together to prepare for reception of First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation, depending on their grade level. As required by the diocese, in order to register for Reconciliation and Eucharist Prep, children must be entering at least 2 ^nd grade, have been enrolled in a Catholic school or Religious Ed program this past year and also enrolled for the coming year. Confirmation candidates must be entering at least 8 ^th grade, have been enrolled in a Catholic school or Religious Ed program this past year and also enrolled for the coming year. Other parishes have been following this model for years, and it should help make the time spent in Religious Ed and Sacramental Prep more beneficial for all. Katie deserves a big “Thank You” for spearheading this transition so enthusiastically!
Registration for both our Religious Ed Programs and the Sacramental Prep Programs are now available on our parish website. Please make sure you register early so you don’t forget!
 
Have a great week and Happy Pentecost, everyone. May God bless you and your loved ones! Father Giuliano