Formation Directors:

Annette Hammeke
Religious Formation Director
Phone: 625-7339
ahammeke@ihm-church.com

Amy Barragree
Religious Formation Director
Phone: 625-7339
abarragree@ihm-church.com
 

2007-2008 Calendars

Classes K-8 and Sacramental Calendar
8th grade Confirmation Prep

 

Religion Formation and Catholic Education

Preschool and Elementary Programs

Classes are available for preschool through Grade 6  throughout the school year. Registration is required.

Parish volunteers share their faith and teach their classes using specific age-related materials. The Director of Religious Education, Coordinators, fellow catechists, teaching materials and training sessions provide a network of support that aid volunteers in their work.

Pre-school "Wee Wisdom"  Sundays @ 9:30 and 10:30 AM

Children ages 4 & 5 during the Sunday liturgy come forward as the first reader announces time for them to leave with designated catechist for the reading of the Sunday gospel at a level understandable to them.  Following the story of the gospel they continue their understanding with a hands on activity called "Worship Bulletin" which is taken home to share with their family.

Grade K-6  

"Faith First" series is based on a firm foundation containing three essential elements: BELIEFS, STORY, and CELEBRATION.  "Faith First" provides a balance between doctrine, scripture,  and the liturgical year with individual emphasis on each but integrated into the whole. 

The DOCTRINES  or BELIEFS taught in Faith First are drawn from the four pillars of faith as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Creed,  Worship and Sacraments,  Morality, and   Christian Prayer. 

In "Faith First" the SACRED SCRIPTURES /STORIES are the heart of Christian life.  Through God's word we are nourished and revitalized.  Scripture stories are included in each lesson.  Children will grow in knowledge and love as they deepen their faith (relationship with Jesus).

In "Faith First", the LITURGICAL SEASONS/CELEBRATIONS are taught to their fullest. The liturgical year is a cycle which provides the opportunity for children and parents to reflect weekly on God's presence with us throughout time and history.  Chapters include lives of saints of today and canonized Saints.

Each chapter of "Faith First" has a special "What Difference Does This Make?" section: What difference does this make in the Church, in the lives of Catholic Christians, and in the lives of Christians throughout history?

These important teachings are developmentally presented to each grade appropriate for their leaning level.  While similar material is presented each year it grows in maturity with the children.

"Faith First"  and the family have the opportunity to partner with catechist in this teaching process.  Each unit contains a "Parent Page", each chapter includes a chapter review which can be discussed and shared at home, and "Faith First" makes available a web site www.FaithFirst.com with many resources and activities.

Grade 7 - 8   Preparation for Confirmation  (information to follow soon)   

Grade 7 "UNDERSTANDING THE CATECHISM" and Grade 8 "WELCOME TO THE WAY" and "CONFIRMED IN THE SPIRIT"

Christian Initiation of Children Who Have Reached Catechetical Age

According to the child's individual situation, appropriate classes (private or small group) will be recommended and arranged.

Religious Education Ministry Positions

Catechist/Teachers
An adult who guides groups of students through textbook lessons, art activities, songs, and prayers using a designated teacher's manual, as well as other books and teaching materials. Commitment: 25 weekly classes, orientation, and grade-level meetings, certification classes and retreats.

Classroom Aide
An adult who assists the teacher and help the students in weekly classes, guiding them in lessons, art activities, songs, and prayers. Leads the class if the teacher is absent. Commitment: 25 weekly classes, orientation, and grade-level meetings, certification classes, and retreats.

Student Helper
A student in grades 6-12 who helps coordinate with special projects.

Hall Monitor
Directs students/parents to classrooms and monitors halls during class.

Office Assistants
Answers phones, records attendance, and assists with office tasks.

Babysitters
Adult and student volunteers work in the Nursery, caring for the children of catechists who are teaching or aiding in the classrooms.

For more information, e-mail the Religious Education office.

Middle School

Junior Catholic Youth Organization - Comprised of Jr. High School age youth from our parish.  Immaculate Heart of Mary's Jr. CYO provides an opportunity for Junior High School youth to come together several times a year in a social and spiritual atmosphere encouraging strong relationship with God and others.  Contact Rick Binder, Youth Director at785.625.7339

High School

Catholic Youth Organization - Our goal is to provide opportunities for High School age youth to build strong healthy relationships with God and with others. Through service, social, and spiritual dimensions of their lives they reveal Christ’s presence in our organization, parish and community.  Contact Rick Binder, Youth Director at 785.625.7339.