The primary purpose of our existence as a Catholic school is the practice of Catholicism. While St. Patrick's School admits students from all religious traditions, religious education classes
are mandatory for all students. The religious education of the child only begins with this building
of information. Students also have many and varied opportunities to develop and nurture a relationship
with their God. Each day begins and ends with prayer. Students celebrate Liturgy every Wednesday
at 9:15 AM. These Liturgies are planned by individual classes and shared with the entire student
body. Reconciliation is celebrated during Advent and again during the Lenten season.
The practice of faith is an integral part of developing a life-long relationship between God and child.
Major Goals of the Religious education program:
- To help the child grow in awareness of God’s love and to develop a personal relationship with God through
prayer
- To help the child discover God acting and speaking in Scripture, doctrine and the faith
- To foster growth in the child’s awareness of Jesus as a brother and friend, and to urge the child to
carry His love and friendship to others
- To help the child develop according to his/her psychological readiness, a faith life in the context of the
Christian community-family, school, parish
- To give parents the opportunity for adult religious educational experiences
Liturgies:
Student body Liturgies are celebrated weekly. Students also attend Liturgies on holy days and once a week during Lent according to a schedule published during
February. Students must be in school by 7:50 a.m. according to that schedule. All students (regardless of religious orientation)
are expected to attend these Liturgies. Students may not enter church after Mass has begun and will be marked tardy. Grades 1-4 attend the 12:10 p.m. Mass. They eat lunch at 11:15 a.m. on these days. Parents are always
invited and encouraged to attend these Liturgies. Please refer to the monthly school calendar
for the days and times of our student liturgies. Levels plan the Sacrament of Reconciliation usually during the season of
Advent and Lent. While the school sees the importance of meaningful communal experiences for the Sacrament of Reconciliation,
parents are always encouraged, and expected, to provide further opportunities.
Religion Classes:
The Sadlier Religion Program is used throughout
the grades. The teachers at St. Patrick’s School are, and have been, involved in the Religion
Certification process in the Diocese of San Diego.
Mass Attendance (Weekends):
As a Catholic
school, we recognize that there is a great opportunity for parent-directed religious education in the celebration of Sunday
Mass. It is essential to our mission as Catholic educators in partnership with parents, that families attend Mass on a regular
basis. As the primary religious educators of their children, families are encouraged to consistently follow through on this
most serious obligation.
Sacramental Preparation:
The preparation
of students for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharist is part of the parish Religious Education Program. Parents are
required to attend meetings related to these two sacraments. These meetings will be held during
the school year. The dates, times, and content will be established by the Parish Director of Religious Education.
Confirmation:
The Youth Minister of the parish is responsible for preparing young adults for the Sacrament of
Confirmation. Information regarding the basic requirements of the program may be obtained by contacting the Youth Minister
at 295-2157.
Service:
Service is the expression of a lived faith. Therefore, the
school provides opportunities to share with others less fortunate by daily mission collection, Thanksgiving donations, and
share-care boxes during Lent, Christmas seals, etc.
CSJ Education Network:
St. Patrick's
School is an active member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Orange Education Network. This affiliation
provides St. Patrick's School with a variety of valuable resources that enhance our efforts to provide quality Catholic education. As a member, the school profits from the support and guidance offered by the Sisters of St. Joseph
of Orange.
