"Go and make disciples of all nations....."
Matt. 28:19
This is the challenge Jesus entrusted to His disciples
and this same challenge is ours today.
The educational process for childrens' faith formation
at Saint Gabriel's Church aims toward bringing parents
and parish together in handing on the faith to our
children. Each has a role in fostering the growth
of faith in the young. Parents are the first teachers
and primary example to their children. There is no
substitute for the place God is given in the home.
The parish supports parents by providing the necessary
doctrinal, sacramental, and worship support necessary
for faith formation and growth.
Grades K-6 use Faith
First, a comprehensive and multimedia approach
to teaching the Catholic Faith. Based on the four
pillars of the
Catechism of the Catholic Church, Faith First
teaches doctrine, scripture, and Catholic Tradtion
at every grade level.
Grades 7-8 use Live
Our Faith by Sadlier.
Scripture is taught in a separate strand
as well as interwoven throughout the curriculum.
The Liturgical Year is emphasized throughout
the series.
Faith First interweaves life and faith
throughout each lesson to help children recognize that faith makes
a difference in their lives. We hope our students will see all of
life through the eyes of faith.
Preparation for and celebration of sacraments is
also a joint parish and parent responsibility.
While the parish gives formal instruction,
parents are asked to attend several meetings to
prepare
for the childrens' celebration of the sacraments.
First Communion and First Reconciliation
are normally recieved in the 2nd grade or in the
second year
of instruction.
