Parents, you are the primary faith formation educators of your children. It is through your words and actions that your children develop a healthy relationship with Jesus and the Catholic Church. St. Rita’s and the Faith Formation staff are here to strengthen and supplement these lessons and to help the children grow in their faith. We look forward to helping you share our rich Catholic faith with your children. We focus on the life, mission and saving work of Jesus Christ. This lays a foundation for a personal relationship with Jesus who leads us to the Father and calls us to share the Good News as His disciples. Families are encouraged to attend Mass in addition to attending Faith Formation classes.

If you have any questions about the Elementary Faith Formation program, please contact:

Kathy Raible

Elementary Faith Formation Coordinator

kraible@saintritas.org; or at 651-459-4596, ext. 1124

Beginning in the fall of 2024, we will be using a curriculum published by Our Sunday Visitor:

• Kindergarten will be using “Allelu” - an early childhood curriculum that contributes to a solid

Catholic foundation through the use of Scripture, prayer, ritual and community life.

• Grades 1, 3, 4, & 5 will be using “Alive in Christ”. The Alive in Christ series is deeply rooted in Church

Tradition. It remains faithful to the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the General Directory for Catechesis. This program pulls from the following sources of Catholic wisdom: 1) scripture, 2) doctrine, 3) lives of saints and people of faith, and 4) cultural customs and celebrations. The following key content areas are taught at each grade level: Revelation, the Holy Trinity, Jesus Christ, the Church, Morality, the Sacraments, and the Kingdom of God. Each of these concepts is taught in an age-appropriate manner. As the children progress from grade to grade, their understanding of these concepts grows and deepens.

Grade 2: Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.

PLEASE NOTE:

• A child must prepare for and receive the Sacrament of First Reconciliation BEFORE participating the Sacrament of First Holy Communion.
• All children, including those who attend Catholic schools, must prepare for the Sacraments at their parish (Church) of registration.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation (or Penance) is usually received for the first time when a child is in Grade 2. The children prepare for it at the weekly classes (Wednesdays at 4:30 pm) and special sessions held for the child and parent during the fall of the program year. The children celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation in December.

The Sacrament of First Holy Communion is usually received for the first time when a child is in Grade 2. The children prepare for it at the weekly classes (Wednesdays at 4:30 pm) and special sessions are held for the child and parent during the winter and spring of the program year. The Sacrament of First Holy Communion is celebrated in May.

For more information about the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, please go to the Pastoral Care tab located at the top of this page  and click on "Sacraments".

2024-2025 PROGRAM YEAR REGISTRATION

All elementary classes for the 2024-2025 program year will be held on 

Wednesdays at 4:30 pm to 5:45 pm

CLASSES BEGIN SEPTEMBER 25 AT 4:30 PM.

If this class time does not work with your family's needs, please contact Kathy Raible to discuss Home School options.

Click here to register giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/2c895130-c4f1-4fb5-baf8-8527a24752ca

Tuition:  $110 per student (Register by September 1 for a $20 discount!)

Sacrament Fee:  Additional $85

Cap: $350

$50 Credit for adult volunteer

We know that participating in these programs can be a financial burden for your family. If you would like your child to participate but are unable to pay for partial or entire fee, please contact Elizabeth Trksak. Your confidentiality will be respected. Please do not let cost prevent your child from being part of faith formation programs.