RELIGIOUS EDUCATION FOR GRADES K-5

Welcome to Grades K-5 Religious Education!

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION INFORMATION WHAT IS RELIGIOUS EDUCATION? The goal of the Religious Education program is to provide an environment where the children can learn what it means to be a follower of Jesus, discuss with others in small communities, and learn to live as Christian people. The Religious Education program supplements what the children learn from their parents about the Catholic faith. WHEN CLASSES MEET Instruction for students in grades Kindergarten take place in the homes of parishioners. Grades 1-5 take place in the Parish Life Center once a week starting in September and going until April. Classes are held on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday afternoons from 4:30-5:45 PM and Tuesday & Wednesday evenings from 6:30-7:45 pm. CATECHIST INFORMATION As there are over 1500 children and teens in the Religious Education program, we need over 200 catechists (members of the parish who wish to share their faith with young people and who enjoy children and faith sharing). Catechists register their children first, and have an option for tuition reduction. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Catechist, please contact the Religious Education Office at Cheryll@olmercy.com or phone at (630) 851-3444 x222. Also, you can fill out the Catechist Volunteer Form and return it to the Religious Education office located in the rectory. SACRAMENTS First Communion/Eucharist Children prepare for the Sacrament of First Eucharist/Communion in First and Second Grade, and receive the Sacrament during the Easter season of their Second Grade year. Reconciliation/Penance Children receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation/Penance during the Fourth Grade year. R.C.I.C. (Rite of Christian Initiation for Children) There are special classes for older children who ask to be received into the Catholic Faith (Baptism) or receive Reconciliation and/or First Eucharist/Communion. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION Emergency Closing of Classes Please check the Emergency Closing website during serious weather situations. You may also call (312) 222-SNOW. Our facility name is Our Lady of Mercy Parish. CONTACT US Religious Education Office 701 S. Eola Road Aurora, IL. 60504 (630) 851-3444 x222 (630) 851-3468 fax Contact: Deacon Tim Kueper Director of Religious Education K-5: tkueper5@yahoo.com Cheryl Lohse, Secretary K-5 & RCIC: Cheryll@olmercy.com

Links: (PDF format) New! Religious Education Registration for 2010-2011 Emergency Closing website Contact the R.E. Office Catechist Project Page Catechist Supply Request Form Protecting our Children: Internet Safety Brochure Parent Guide for Preventing Abuse Pastoral Policy Regarding Sexual Abuse of a Minor Sexuality Brochure Standards of Behavior for those Working with Minors Reporting Sexual Abuse