Religious Education Program

As a branch of the one vine, as the family of our Lord Jesus,
it is our mission to follow the way of the Lord
by extending welcome, embracing in healing love,
and sharing the good news of the Gospel.

Our Lady of Humility Mission Statement

To help our children and their families continue the development
of a personal relationship with Jesus begun by the Holy Spirit.

OLH Religious Education Mission Statement

Introduction
     Almost 100 volunteers staff our religious education program for 450 children from about 260 families. Our effort is to provide religious formation for children as well as adults. Child care is available on Sunday mornings when R. E. classes meet. Formal religion classes begin with three year olds and continue through twelfth grade. Parents gather to study scripture and discuss ways to be more effective parents in passing on their faith to their children. Adults from the parish at large gather to share faith, study scripture, and attend preparation classes for sacraments.

3 & 4 Year Olds and Kindergarteners 
     3 & 4 Year Olds and Kindergarteners are given positive concepts of family, school and church, while introducing the child to the world in which he or she is growing. The program provides learning and worship experiences based on the young child's level of understanding and ability to participate. Parents are kept informed through parent notes.

Grades 1 - 8
     1^st - 8th Graders and their parents are using Finding God: Our Response to God's Gifts, published by Loyola Press. With a 2005 copyright, the authors carefully crafted a program to help catechists as they invite children and the significant adults in their lives into a deeper relationship with God and the Catholic Church in service to the world. Finding God weaves together experiences in prayer, liturgy for children and adults as individuals, families and as learners on a faith journey.

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Additional Resources
     The religion department has a wealth of children's books, DVDs, and videos, many financed by the monies received in the REACH envelopes. These help give a spark to the topic being covered. Each teacher add his or her own personal touch in an effort to create a faith community within the class and an enjoyable year for all.

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SPRED (Special Religious Education Development)
     Children with special needs are mainstreamed. Small class size and additional aides provides a learning environment for all. If the child is severely handicapped, a parent is asked to stay with their child during class. Periodically we will have a Confirmation class for young people with special needs.

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Special Events
     Special Masses, Reconciliation services, and other special events are offered on the grade level and as a group throughout the year. Watch the monthly R. E. calendar/bulletin and the parish bulletin for specific dates and times.

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Sacrament Preparation
     There is a two-year preparation period for the reception of the Sacraments.

     Children who have been baptized as infants or at a young age are invited to receive First Eucharist and First reconciliation in second grade. Special sacrament classes are provided for older children who need preparation for the sacraments. Parents are asked to assist in the preparation for these sacraments by attending meetings and celebrations that lead to the reception of the sacraments, as well as work at home with their child or children.

     Our young people prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation in seventh and eighth grade. A Rite of Enrollment, in the fall of eighth grade, celebrates the beginning of the formal preparation. Sponsors are an integral part of the preparation. Reception of the Sacrament is in the spring. 

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Religious Education Class Schedule

Sunday Classes: 10:15 -11:30 AM 
          (3 Year olds through 8th Grade)
            Also Sacrament classes for High School Students

Monday Classes: 6:30 - 7:45 PM 
         (1st Grade through 8th Grade)

Parents Get Involved in the Learning Process
     Each year efforts are being made to include parents in the religious education of their children as well as continued education for themselves. While children are preparing for the reception of a sacrament, parents are informed of changes in the Church teachings and encouraged to renew their appreciation for that sacrament.

     Parents are invited to an Open House where they take part in some activity with the children. This event also offers a chance to observe your child's class in action and time to communicate with the teachers. Watch the calendar for details for all the above as well as other opportunities to get involved.

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