Dear Parents,

We’ve been working with both parishes to work out an agreeable approach to sacrament preparation.  Thankfully, the priests and DREs have been very open and helpful in this process.   Both parishes have agreed to allow the children to do their prep in Atrium, along with a few requirements of their own.   Jen  can give you more details about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program for sacrament prep if you are interested.  Below you will find the details for each parish.

Saint Francis:    (From Melissa Gobs) Father Escalante is happy to allow any families who would like to put their children in CGS (Catechesis of the Good Shepherd) to do so for First Communion Preparation provided the parents attend our sacramental parent meetings, students attend our retreats (there are 2 retreats 1 for First Penance, and the 2nd for First Communion), and that the students receive their sacraments with our group on the scheduled dates for First Reconciliation and First Communion.  (I assume you will also have to pay the sacrament fee.)

Saint Johns:  (From Diana Solomon) The children should be registered in the religious education program here at the beginning of their second grade year. They do not need to attend classes or do the home school program unless you would like to do it.  The children will need to attend the Penance workshops and the First Communion Retreat, and parents will need to attend the parent meetings during the year. The children will learn and practice the mechanics of both Confession and First Communion at the retreats.  On the registration form, they should use the "new" student form and write on the form where I can see it "Atrium" so I'll know who they are and that they only need to pay the sacrament fee and not be placed in a class.

One of our aims for The Joyful Child Atrium is to remain in solidarity with the parishes. We are very thankful that Fr. Mosimann and Fr. Escalente are willing to work with us as we strive to build the CGS program.

This week we have been participating in  the Liturgy of the Light celebration.  This includes the prayers of the Easter Vigil with the Easter candle, a procession, songs, readings, and then each child received their own candle to hold and contemplate with while singing songs of praise.  It was beautiful to see the children being so attentive and prayerful.  For those in the Wednesday class, you will get the Liturgy of the Light next week.

Secondly, we have posted the days/times for classes next year.  You will find all this information under the "Atrium" tab, and then click on "Classes and Registration".  The time has come to register and send in your deposit for your children.  The early birds will get their choice of classes.  If you find that the class days/times do not work for you, please let us know and we will see what we can do.  If we get a flood of level I kids, it is possible that we will add another morning class for them.

All of you should have received an invitation for the upcoming Joyful Child Atrium Dinner being organized by Susie Twetten.  If you don't have the email from her, check your junk mail.  It's going to be a night of great fun for all the present and upcoming Atrium parents.  Let us know if you did not receive your invite.