Religious Education

Vacation Bible School

ALL PK THRU 3RD GRADERS ARE WELCOME

TO Sonsurf Beach Bash VBS 2011

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Grab your surfboard and paddle out to ride a wave of fun and adventure at SonSurf Beach Bash VBS! As your kids explore the wonders of the beach, they’ll also get Big Answers to their Big Questions about Jesus: Who is Jesus? Why can I trust Jesus? Why do I need Jesus? “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way the truth and the life, No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6 When: The fun begins the week of June 13 through June 17 8:45 am to 11:30 am. Where: St. Paul of the Cross Campus Who: Grade levels for 2011-2012 Fall 4 year old Preschool through Fall 3rd graders are invited to join us for this rousing event-filled week Cost: This adventure is $30.00 for 1 child / $55.00 for 2 children / $80.00 for 3 or more children materials and snacks ARE INCLUDED in the price! Contact the Office for Catechesis for more information.

Catechesis Registration

Can you believe it? Registration has begun for the 2011-2012 school year!
Go online for information and to download the Registration Form from our website: www.spc-catechesis.net

As always, registration is on a first-come first-serve basis. The website details information on Registration, Service, deadlines for registration as well as other important information. Please feel free to call with any questions or concerns.
Anna Mae Parkhill, Director of Catechesis, 847-692-2758

Office for Catechesis

The Office for Catechesis is devoted to helping children of our parish become fully initiated into the community of Catholic faith. We organize the religious formation for the children in our parish attending public school in grades preschool through 8th grade. It is also our pleasure to direct and organize the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation for both the catechesis program and St. Paul Of the Cross School.

The purpose and grounding for catechesis is in the very core identity of the Church community. The object of catechesis is formost communion with Jesus Christ. The Church is the historical embodiment of God's gift of communion in Christ. As such the Church is the origin, home, and fulfillment of Catechesis. Catechesis springs from the Church. The Christian community is in herself the living catechesis. As Church we present Catholic teaching and tradition, direct the heart toward God, foster participation in the liturgy and all sacraments, and inspire service and discipleship for the world.

All of our programs are approved by the diocese and are aimed towards leading the children to fullfillment in God through Christ and Church.

Classroom Model:

Our catechesis program has many options in which families can choose from in the formation of their children. The regular classroom models meet on Sunday, or Tuesday, or Thursday.

Family Program

This is an inter-generational program for the whole family. Children 5 and up & their parents together and with the hel of a facilitator, discuss various religious topics and do various crafts and game activities.

Directed Study

Directed Study is a home study catechesis with a communal meeting each month in which to gather with other families and to hand in their work.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

This Montessori method of Catechesis utilizes a hands-on approach with special materials and lessons, focusin on Scripture, liturgy and the liturgical year. If you are interested in your child in Good Shepherd, call the office and check space availability. If your child is in the Good Shepherd program you are required to be a permanent catechist or assistant in a Good Shepherd class, for the year. Please call the office for availability in the program.

Special Needs

Children with special needs or challenges are mainstreamed into any program of their choosing.

Service to the Community

We also promote service in the community for our 6, 7, & 8th graders.
As you can see we have many choices and ways of accomplishing the initiation of our children into the Catholic faith. All are welcome and we are open to working with all situations and circumstances.