Learning let's us grow to our full potential.
“Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.” (In 17:3) “The definitive aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch, but also in communion and intimacy, with Jesus Christ.” (Catechesi Tradendae).
Religious education programs prepare students for the Sacraments of Penance, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, and for a lifetime devotion to God. Parents seeking Baptism for themselves or for their child should contact Sr. Nancy Citro at the Parish Office 617 242-4664 or by email ncitro@stmarystcatherine.org
At St. Mary – St. Catherine of Siena we recognize parents as the first teachers of their children in beliefs and practices of our Catholic Faith. Our Religious Education Program is designed to assist parents in their role as primary educators of their children. The program provides formal classroom instruction in the doctrines of our faith, and provides an environment which enables children to apply these teachings to their lives. Equally important to this instruction are our goals of helping children and families to worship, sharing and fostering community and motivating children to service.
Parents’ participation in all aspects of our program is essential to its purpose and success. Children learn best by example. We ask that you accord your children’s religious classes the importance they deserve. By working together, parish and family, our faith will fill the hearts of our children!
Programs for Children and Adults Within the Religious Education Department.
Religious Education for Children
Classes are available from Pre-K through Grade 8
First Communion Preparation – Two year program for Grades 1 and 2
This is a two year program beginning with first grade where children learn of God’s love. In the second year, the children and families prepare for the reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion.
Confirmation Preparation for Grades 9 and 10
The Confirmation Preparation Program is a two year program in collaboration with St. Francis de Sales. Grade 9 classes are held at St. Francis de Sales Parish. Grade 10 classes occur at St. Mary-St. Catherine of Siena Parish. For more information, please contact Sr. Nancy Citro, SND at ncitro@stmarystcatherine.org
Adult Confirmation Classes
These classes are for persons 18 years of age and older who have not had the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. For more information, please contact Sr. Nancy Citro, SND at ncitro@stmarystcatherine.org
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
RCIA is a program through which we welcome new members into the Catholic Church. The process of initiation into the Catholic Church is a journey of gradual and continuing conversion. Those who feel drawn to deepen their relationship with God and to learn more about the Catholic faith engage in a period of prayer, study, discussion and ongoing discernment as to one’s readiness for full initiation into the Church through the Sacraments of Initiation.
If you have never been baptized, were baptized in another Christian Church or were baptized into the Catholic Church but did not have the opportunity to receive religious instruction and preparation to celebrate the sacraments of Penance, Eucharist and Confirmation, we invite you to consider participating in our Parish RCIA program. For more information, you may contact Sr. Nancy Citro, SND at ncitro@stmarystcatherine.org.
