CHURCH OF ST. RAPHAEL
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM
GRADES 1-8

Since parents are the primary religious educators of their children, it is the goal of our catechetical program to assist, not replace, parents in teaching the beliefs of our Catholic faith.

Our aim, in assisting the parents, is to help those we catechize come to know Jesus better, love Him more genuinely, and follow Him more closely. Coming to know, love, and follow Jesus involves learning more about Jesus and his Catholic Church.

Through the ministry of catechists who give witness to their own life of faith, through instruction in the meaning of our Catholic faith, and through participation in prayer, liturgical services, faith-centered activities, and service projects, we as a community strive to cooperate with the parents in helping their children learn more about Jesus and his Catholic Church.

TEXTS

FAITH FIRST by RCL (Resources for Christian Living)

FAITH FIRST introduces students to the pillars of the Catechism-Creed, Sacraments, Morality, and Prayer-every year, in every grade level. This approach reinforces learning in an age-appropriate way and builds deeper understanding as children mature.

FEATURES FOR FAMILIES

1. A Parent Page at the beginning of each unit
2. Family Activities
1. Elementary Grades – Each Chapter: "With My Family" and "Think and with Your Family"
2. Junior High – Each Chapter: "Family Discussion"
3. Web Site: www.FaithFirst.com
1. Family Front Porch
2. Kids Clubhouse (Grades 1-3)
3. Kids Only Club (Grades 4-6)
4. Teen Center (Grades 7-8)

GRADE 2

MY BOOKLET ABOUT GOD'S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS
MY BOOKLET ABOUT THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST

These Booklets help the students prepare for their reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. The Booklets have clear, simple language; helpful discussion questions and activities that guide the students in their knowledge and understanding of these sacraments.

The2^nd grade students will receive a "Homework Guide" for each Booklet. Each week, use the guide to review the material your child studied in class.

GRADE LEVEL SCHEDULES

These are in the students' folders.

PRAYER/DOCTRINE MATERIAL

You are to help your child learn his/her grade level Prayers and Doctrine. The students will be tested on this material in March.

RETREATS – GRADES 6,7 & 8

All students who wish to be confirmed at St. Raphael's in Grade 10 must complete the required retreats. The Youth Ministry Office will send you information about the retreats. If you have questions, call the Youth Ministry Office – 763-537-8401 ext. 225.

SERVICE HOURS – GRADES 7 & 8

See your student's Service Project Booklet.

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES

STUDENTS ARE NOT TO WALK TO OR FROM CLASS. If you cannot bring your child, arrange for carpooling. This rule is for the safety of your child.

ONLY THE DOORS ON NEVADA AVENUE (east side of school) will be open.

Before and after class, EACH STUDENT IN GRADES 1-6 is to be escorted to and from the classroom by a parent or other designated adult.

HOMEWORK

All students will be assigned homework. The homework assignments are to be completed by the following week. If a student does not do his/her homework , the catechist or Director of Religious Education will contact the parent to discuss ways to help the student realize the importance of doing assignments.

ABSENCES

If your child will be missing class, please call one of the following people and leave a message:

If you know a week in advance that your child will be absent on the following Wednesday, you should send a note with your child. This note should be given to the child's catechist.

MAKE-UP WORK

If you child is absent, he/she is expected to make up the lesson that was missed. A form listing and explaining the make-up work will be mailed to you. The work should be completed before the child returns to class.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE PROBLEMS

1. If a student is causing an interruption in the classroom, the catechist will speak to the student.
2. If the student continues to cause interruptions, the Director of Religious Education will discussion the interruptions with the student.
3. If the problem with the student continues, the Director of Religious Education will discuss the situation with the parent. If necessary, the pastor will be consulted.

PARENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES

1. If a problem arises, the parent will discuss the problem with the Director of Religious Education.
2. If a satisfactory conclusion cannot be reached, the Director of Religious Education and the parent will discuss the problem with the pastor.