All children are entitled to religious formation in their
Faith journeys with the Lord. According to the teachings of the Church,
parents are the first and best teachers of The Faith to their children,
by what they say and do. We strongly encourage all families to be involved in
this process of formation with their children.
Religious formation may happen through the C.C.D. program, home schooling, or
Catholic School. In making this choice, we encourage families to be supportive
of their children by discussing the
concepts they are learning concerning their religion, sharing
prayer, reviewing the materials and lessons, and above all attending
Mass. It is in the Eucharistic Liturgy (the Mass) that we come to
realize who we are as members of the Body of Christ, and
live out our mission as the People of God.
Attendance at the weekly classes is expected of all who are members
of the parish and have registered for the C.C.D. Program. Classes
begin at 6:00 pm. Students are not admitted to the building until
5:55 pm as many teachers are arriving after work, and will not be present
in the rooms until that time. Entrance to the building will
be through the middle (double brown-framed) glass doors. All classes
will begin with prayer. Class time is critical, since it is so limited, please do not schedule other appointments or events during C.C.D. time.
If your child must be absent due to illness, etc., please be sure to call
the Office of Religious Education to inform the Secretary at 412-881-4142.
Due to safety and security issues concerning the children, if you do not
call us, we will call you to verify the absence.
Early dismissals are strongly discouraged, as the children miss vital
parts of their lessons. Dismissals can only occur with a written note
from a parent/guardian. All students MUST BE RETRIEVED from the Office of
Religious Education by the adult who sent the note. NO CHILD IS TO LEAVE
THE BUILDING WITHOUT ADULT ESCORT FROM THE OFFICE DURING CLASS
TIME.
We also ask your consideration with parking and dismissal. THE
BARRIERS ARE NOT TO BE MOVED. Since we have very little
children on both nights, it is difficult to see them. PLEASE BE PATIENT
IN THE PARKING LOT AND BE AWARE OF THE CHILDREN! They are God's Gift to us.
Let's respect that Gift!
Concerning dismissal, due to the number of students, it will happen in two
shifts. Second floor classrooms will be dismissed on the first bell. The first
floor students will be dismissed with the second bell. Both groups of students
will close with prayer. Please do not take your children while we are praying. You are welcome
to join us in the closing prayer. All students will exit the
middle (double brown) glass doors in single file. That will
safeguard them from any injury on the steps.
IN THE EVENT OF INCLEMENT WEATHER, CLASSES WILL BE CANCELLED ON KDKA
RADIO. This will be THE source which will inform you of all updates
on cancellations for Religious Education.
There will be evaluations for your children after Thanksgiving
and at the C.C.D. year's end. We hope this sharing will guide you
and your children as they learn about God and teachings of The
Faith.
The catechists and staff are all here to serve you and your
children. If ever you have questions or concerns, please do
not hesitate to call the Office at 412-881-4142.
May the Lord bless you and your family abundantly in this new
catechetical year!