Catechism Program
St. Anne’s Catechism program supports families in their children’s development of faith, helping them to nurture an understanding that God is present in their life and their family. The priest and lay parishioners clarify beliefs and values introduced in the home and serve as role models for students. Lessons throughout the Growing in Faith, Growing in Christ program follow the cycle of the liturgical year.
FOCUS WITHIN GRADES
Catechism Levels
Because instruction is based on receipt of the Sacraments rather than age, our program is organized into Levels rather than grades.
Level 1 (no sacrament in this Level)
• Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory be to the Father
• Parts of the Mass
• The history of Jesus & what his basic principles of life
• How we use what Jesus taught to guide our lives
• Four of the Liturgical seasons: Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter
Level 2 (Sacrament of Reconciliation)
• Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, Act of
Contrition, Guardian Angel Prayer, Grace before & After Meals, Apostles’ Creed
• 10 Commandments
• 7 sacraments
• Preparation for the Sacrament of First Reconciliation:
o key terms (sin, grace, conscience, gospel)
o how to examine one’s conscience before confession
o Confession Prayer
o Act of Contrition
• Significance of events during Passion Week
• Parts of the Mass
Level 3 (Sacraments of Confirmation & First Eucharist)
• Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, Act of
Contrition, Guardian Angel Prayer, Grace before & After Meals, Apostles’ Creed, Prayers to the Holy Spirit, Confession Prayer
• 10 Commandments
• 7 sacraments
• Acts of Adoration
• 5 Precepts of the Church
• Parts of the Mass
• Gifts of the Holy Spirit
• Fruits of the Holy Spirit
• Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation
• Preparation for the Sacrament of First Eucharist
Levels 4-5-6 (no sacrament in these Levels)
• Knowledge of essential material listed in the previous Levels
• 4 Mysteries of the Holy Rosary
➢ Each Level 6 student must lead the congregation in the Rosary before one weekend Mass in May.
• Presentation to the parish of a visual display of a Special Study (e.g.: Gifts of the Holy Spirit,How to be a Good Witness of Our Faith)
• The focus here is on following Jesus in the gospels and becoming an active disciple by proclaiming his Good News to others
Our Expectations of Parents
The Priest and teachers value the support of parents, who are the first educators of a child. The following activities are effective ways to model Catholic values for your children:
1. Attend weekend Mass and receive the sacraments regularly as part of your family routine.
2. Talk with your child about what he or she is learning in the classroom. Your interest will
communicate the message that Catechism is important.
3. Practice the prayers taught in the classroom with your child to reinforce the idea that prayers are
said in environments other than church.
4. Maintain communication with the catechism teacher, informing him or her about matters that may
affect the child’s performance or learning.
5. If possible, join students on designated Catechism days when Mass or the Rosary are offered.
6. Volunteer by helping teachers organize materials and/or activities on special event days.
Our Expectations of Children
The priest and teachers expect students to be actively involved in their religious education and appreciate the following behaviour that supports learning:
1. Students will act respectfully toward priests, teachers, assistants, visitors, and peers.
2. Students will be polite, use appropriate language and gestures, and dress modestly.
3. Students will be attentive in class, actively participating in lessons, homework, and associated activities.
4. Students will be punctual and attend class regularly.
5. Students will avoid chewing gum in the church and building. Parents will be contacted if discipline is required.
REGISTRATION
Catechism Registration Form
PERMISSION FORMS
Catechism Permission Forms
ESSENTIAL PRAYERS FOR STUDENTS
Essential Prayers for Catechism 2018-2019
ADDITIONAL PRAYERS
Additional Prayers
ONLINE PROGRAMS
Online Programs for Students and Parents