Sacrament Preparation for 2013-14

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.