Youth RCIA and Sacramental Preparation

The purpose of Catholic education is to guide the students in their understanding of Church doctrine, to prepare the students to spread the Gospel, to foster a sense of community and to motivate them to serve others. Understanding that the parents are the primary witnesses and principally responsible for communicating the faith to their children, the catechists of the Religious Education Program at St. Matthew’s Church, in the spirit of Jesus, endeavor to assist the parents in their task.

The Church is responsible for continuing the mission of Jesus to proclaim and teach about the Kingdom of God. St. Matthew’s Religious Education Program is designed to teach young people an understanding of their Catholic faith and to encourage them and their families to participate actively in the parish community.

Our Religious Education Program for those children not attending Catholic School includes Kindergarten through 8th grade. Classes are held during the school year on Sunday mornings from 9:35AM -10:20AM for grades K-5. Classes for grades 6-8 are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:00PM - 7:00PM.

Sacramental Preparation Policies for Religious Education Students

First Reconciliation

The sacrament of First Reconciliation for children is celebrated yearly. Children receiving this sacrament must have been baptized, in their second consecutive year of religious education. Students must also attend and complete sacramental preparation classes in addition to their regular religious education class.

First Eucharist

The sacrament of first Eucharist for children is celebrated in the spring. Children receiving this sacrament must have been baptized, in the second grade or above, and in their second consecutive year of religious education. Students must also attend and complete sacramental preparation classes in addition to their regular religious education class.

Note: Parents of children/young people preparing for sacraments are required to attend Mass weekly, attend all parent meetings, participate in other activities that will be covered at scheduled parent meetings. Proof of religious education attendance will be required for students moving here from another parish.

Confirmation

The sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated by the Bishop every spring. Students receiving this sacrament must have been baptized, must be in the 8th grade or above, and must also be in their second consecutive year of religious education/youth ministry. Students must also attend and complete sacramental preparation classes in addition to their regular religious education class. Twenty hours of service over a one year period prior to Confirmation is also required, along with a letter to the Bishop, and a research paper on their chosen saint. Older candidates wishing to be confirmed must first complete an adult religious education program.