OUR LADY OF FATIMA
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
2015-2016
Daniella Sallese
Grade 5
0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Religious Education Office Contact Information ...................................................................... 2
A Message from Father Reggie ............................................................................................. 3
Letter from Director, Kathleen Rooney .................................................................................. 4
Class Schedule/Opening Dates .............................................................................................. 5
Registration Information ...................................................................................................... 6
Policies for Grades 1 – 5.................................................................................................... 7-8
Policies for Grades 6 – 9.................................................................................................. 9-10
Volunteer Policy ................................................................................................................. 11
Sacramental Preparation and Dates ............................................................................... 12-14
Curriculum for Grades Pre-K through 5 ................................................................................ 15
Calendar for Grades 1 through 5 ......................................................................................... 16
Calendar for Kindergarten and Pre-School ........................................................................... 17
Curriculum for Grades 6 through 9 ...................................................................................... 18
Calendar 6th Grade Morning .......................................................................................... 19-20
Calendar 6th Grade Evening .......................................................................................... 21-22
Preparing for Confirmation ................................................................................................. 23
Calendar 7th Grade Morning .......................................................................................... 24-25
Calendar 7th Grade Evening .......................................................................................... 26-27
Calendar 8th Grade Morning .......................................................................................... 28-29
Calendar 8th Grade Evening .......................................................................................... 30-31
Calendar 9th Grade Morning and Evening ............................................................................ 32
Youth Ministry/Service Project Suggestions..................................................................... 33-35
Christmas Sing-Along ......................................................................................................... 36
Christmas Pageant ............................................................................................................. 37
Home-School Testing Calendar and Policies .................................................................... 38-39
Study Guides ................................................................................................................ 40-45
1
Office of Religious Education
Our Lady of Fatima Parish
225 Danbury Road
Wilton, Connecticut 06897
(203) 762-9080
Rev. Reginald D. Norman
Pastor
fatherreggie@gmail.com
Mrs. Kathleen Rooney
Director, Religious Education
krooney@parishmail.com
Mrs. Stella Yee
Administrative Assistant
stella.yee@parishmail.com
Mrs. Lisa Sallese
Assistant Bookkeeper
lisa.sallese@parishmail.com
Mrs. Mary McCue
Assistant
Religious Education Website: www.olfwilton.org/parish-life/education
Office Email: angels225@aol.com
Fax No. (203) 834-1261
Youth Ministry Email: olfyouthgroup2@gmail.com
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
(In the event the school is closed and the front doors are locked, please call us or press the
white button on the intercom box located on the left side of the front door.)
2
A Message from Father Reggie
May 1, 2015
Dear Partners in Ministry,
Do you recall the baptismal promises you made for your child? The promise you
made to be the first teachers of the faith to your child. This day was an important
one for your family and ours as it ensures that our faith is being passed onto
another generation and the Kingdom of God will continue to grow so that God can
be known throughout the world.
To properly fulfill this promise we must work at it from many angles:
1. We need teachers to help teach our children – please consider being a
catechist (we will train you and provide you with all the materials).
2. Enroll early and make every effort to have your child attend every class on
time and be ready to learn.
3. Work with your child at home and expand upon the instructional lessons.
4. Put the lessons in action by attending mass and the way you live your lives.
Our staff continues to offer an excellent program but we cannot do it alone.
We need to partner with each of you. Please let us know how we can help but
please be active in this important stage of your child’s education.
Please read the enclosed materials carefully and mark your calendars in advance.
We look forward to a successful year and thank you in advance for your continued
support.
May the Holy Spirit continue to lead us.
In Gratitude and Service,
Fr. Reginald D. Norman
Pastor
3
May 1, 2015
Dear Parents,
The Religious Education Staff warmly welcomes all of our families to the 2015-16
program. We feel blessed to be a part of your child’s religious formation and we
anticipate a wonderful year as we partner with one another to make our faith come
alive for your sons and daughters.
We promise to provide an environment in which each child knows that he/she is
very special and unique in the eyes of God. Throughout the curriculum, the
children are exposed to the many loving acts of kindness and compassion in the life
of Jesus and are encouraged to follow his command: Love one another as I have
loved you.
May this be a year of spiritual growth for parents, catechists, staff, and students as
we journey together in faith.
God bless you.
Kathleen Rooney
Director of Religious Education
4
CLASS SCHEDULE
2015-2016
OPENING DATES
Grades 1-5: Monday Sept. 21 – 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday Sept. 22 – 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday Sept. 30 – 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Pre-K and K: Sunday, October 18 – 9:00 a.m.
Grades 6-9: Sunday, October 18
Morning Classes – 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.
Evening Classes – 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
NOTE: We follow the Wilton Public School calendar. If school is not
in session OR if there is early dismissal (even ten minutes early), then
there are no Religious Education classes.
We are an after-school activity on Monday, Tuesday, and
Wednesday, so if after-school activities are cancelled, there
are NO Religious Education classes.
Sunday classes are rarely cancelled. If there is a question
about classes being held, please check the radio station
WEBE 108 and/or TV Channel 12.
5
REGISTRATION
1. The following are REQUIRED TO BE COMPLETED in order to
process registration:
 Registration Form
 Emergency Form
 Completion of previous year’s requirements (eg. Tests)
2. Acceptance of Religious Education registration is conditional upon
having your Parish registration on file in the Parish office. It is
assumed you will have demonstrated financial support to Our Lady of
Fatima Church in the amount of $400 (minimum) per family, per year.
For any exceptions due to financial difficulty, please communicate with
Father Reggie or Kathleen Rooney.
TUITION FEES
Register by 7/1/15
1 Child
2 Children
3 Children
$205.00
$255.00
$305.00
AFTER 7/1/15
$255.00
$305.00
$355.00
Sacrament Materials Fee:
$75.00 for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist (separate check payable at
registration)
$85.00 for Confirmation (separate check payable at registration)
Replacement Book Fee:
$20.00 Workbook
$12.00 Sacrament Book
6
POLICIES
GRADES 1 - 5
ATTENDANCE
Attendance at Religious Education classes is important for faith formation.
Please recognize the gifts of time, preparation, and generosity that our
dedicated volunteer catechists offer in order to bring the good news to our
parish children.
Any student in grades 1 through 5 who misses more than six (6) scheduled
Religious Education classes will be required to do make-up work prior to
registering for the next school year.
Attendance is taken in the classroom at the beginning of class. Please make
every effort to get your child to class on time. We do not call home if your
child is absent. It is your child’s/children’s responsibility to complete all
assigned readings, homework, and tests.
CONDUCT
Please encourage your sons and daughters to be respectful and courteous at all
times to both their teachers and their classmates. If a child has a behavior
problem or is disruptive in class, he/she will be warned by the teacher. For a
second occurrence, the child will be sent to the Religious Education office and
parents will be called. The third time there is a problem, you will be asked to
sit in class with your child or home-school him/her for the remainder of the
year.
The Religious Education office takes bullying very seriously and has a zero
tolerance for such behavior. The office recognizes that everyone has the right
to learn in a safe environment.
The use of cell phones or any electronic device is prohibited during
class time. If a child is seen using such a device, the teacher will collect it
until the end of the class.
7
ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday Classes
Please drop off and pick up your children at the REAR of the school only.
Students will be dismissed at 5:00 p.m. from the rear door of the school onto
the playground. In the interest of safety, your child will not be dismissed early
from class without a note signed by a parent or guardian who must then
come to the classroom to pick up your child.
We ask that you pick up your children promptly at 5:00 p.m. from the
playground area and escort them to your cars. The children are
instructed not to go into the parking lot, but to wait for the person who is
bringing them home to get them on the playground and walk them to the car.
Please abide by the traffic-pattern signs from the church entrance to the
church parking lot. Stay to the right as you go around the church to the
parking lot. Park your car in the allotted spaces, and walk up to the
playground to pick up your child. Please DO NOT park in front of the
garages or in front of the St. Vincent de Paul statue, and DO NOT
drive up or down the driveway from the school as this puts the
children in danger! We appreciate everyone abiding by these procedures so
that the safety of our children will not be compromised.
Any time the Miller, Driscoll, or Cider Mill children are dismissed prior to the
scheduled dismissal time (even if it’s only ten minutes), Religious Education
classes for students affected by the early dismissal are automatically cancelled.
For example, at one time the Miller/Driscoll students were dismissed early so
there were no classes for them, but classes were held for Cider Mill students.
We are an after-school activity on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday,
so if after-school activities held at the schools in Wilton are
cancelled; there will be NO Religious Education classes.
In the event of inclement weather, please come into the school to pick up your
child.
SNACKS
Before class, snacks will be available for sale until 3:55 p.m. The cost
of snacks is 50 cents each.
8
POLICIES
GRADES 6 - 9
ATTENDANCE
Any student in grades 6 through 8 who misses more than three (3) scheduled
Religious Education classes will be required to complete additional assignments
before registering for the next year. These assignments will be distributed at
the conclusion of classes.
Students in grade 9 who miss more than two (2) scheduled classes will be
required to complete an additional assignment by April 1, 2016 to be eligible
for Confirmation.
Attendance is taken in the classroom at the beginning of class. Please make
every effort to get your child to class on time. We do not call home if your
child is absent. It is your child’s/children’s responsibility to complete all
assigned readings, homework, and tests.
CONDUCT
We are very grateful for the men and women who have volunteered the gifts
of their time and talent to our parish children. Please encourage your sons
and daughters to be respectful and courteous at all times to both their
teachers and their classmates.
If a child has a behavior problem or is disruptive in class, he/she will be
warned by the teacher. For a second occurrence, the child will be sent to the
Religious Education office and parents will be called. The third time there is a
problem you will be asked to sit in class with your child or home-school
him/her for the remainder of the year.
The Religious Education office takes bullying very seriously and has zero
tolerance for such behavior. The office recognizes that everyone has the right
to learn in a safe environment.
The use of cell phones or any electronic device is prohibited during
class time. Any such device will be collected by the catechist at the
beginning of class and returned to the student at the end of class.
9
ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL
Please drop off and pick up your child at the front door of OLF School. For
safety reasons, no student will be allowed to leave via the back entrance. A
signed note is required for any child who needs to be dismissed early
from class. In addition, a parent/guardian must come to the
classroom to pick up the child. We appreciate your promptness both at
the beginning and at the end of class.
Sunday classes are rarely cancelled. If there is a question about classes being
held, please check the radio station WEBE 108 and/or TV Channel 12.
TESTING
Students in Grades 6, 7, 8, and 9 will be tested as per syllabus. All tests must
be passed and all assignments completed for 6th, 7th, and 8th grades before
your child/children can be registered for the following year; in the case of 9 th
grade, tests must be passed and all assignments completed no later than
April 10, 2016.
NOTE: Study guides for these tests are located at the back of the book.
IF YOUR CHILD CANNOT ATTEND ON THE DAY OF THE TEST, HE/SHE
MUST CALL THE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION OFFICE TO SCHEDULE AN
APPOINTMENT TO TAKE THE TEST WITHIN ONE WEEK OF THE
TESTING DATE.
10
VOLUNTEERS
The Religious Education Staff is grateful for our volunteers without whose help
we could not achieve our goals. Diocesan directives now require, for the
safety of our children, that all volunteers and employees attend a “Protecting
God’s Children” workshop (Virtus Training), submit to a background check, and
acknowledge receipt of the Sexual Misconduct Policy and Code of Conduct
Policy.
Some ways you can help are:
 Substitute teaching when our regular volunteer teachers are
unable to make a class.
 One-on-One Catechist for children needing extra help.
 Hall Monitor to assist staff during weekday classes with
snacks, watching over the school halls, playground dismissal
duty, mailings, and more.
 Baby-sit catechist’s children during class time on Monday,
Tuesday, or Wednesday.
 Publicity and/or general office help
Please call the Religious Education Office for further details.
Thank you!
11
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
SCHEDULE
2015-2016
(NOTE: IF YOUR CHILD WAS NOT BAPTIZED AT OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH, A COPY OF
HIS/HER BAPTISMAL CERTIFICATE IS REQUIRED.)
SECOND GRADE
FIRST RECONCILIATION MEETINGS
 Monday, November 2, 2015 – 7:30 p.m., OLF Church - PARENTS ONLY
Following a brief meeting, parents will be invited to receive the Sacrament of
Reconciliation.
 Sunday, December 6, 2015 – 10:00 a.m., OLF School Gym
PARENTS AND FIRST RECONCILIATION STUDENTS
 January 4, 5, 6, 2016 – Children’s Reconciliation books will be checked for completion
and they will be asked to say the Our Father, the Hail Mary, the Glory Be, the Act of
Contrition, and the Sign of the Cross by the Religious Education staff.
Children will receive the sacrament of Reconciliation on
Saturday, January 9, 2016 at either the 9:30 a.m. or the 11:00
a.m. ceremony in Church.
12
FIRST EUCHARIST MEETINGS
 Sunday, February 21, 2016 – 10:00 a.m., OLF School Gym
PARENTS AND FIRST COMMUNION STUDENTS
 Monday, April 4, 2016 – 7:30 p.m., OLF Church - PARENTS ONLY
Banner Kits and First Communion ceremony seating charts will be distributed at this
meeting.
 March 21, 22, 23, 2016 – Children’s books will be checked for completion and they will
be quizzed on their comprehension of the sacrament by the Religious Education staff.
First Eucharist is scheduled for two Saturdays:
May 7, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
Rehearsal for the May 7, 9:30 ceremony will be on Thursday, May 5, 4:00 to
5:00 p.m. and for the 12:00 ceremony from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. in the Church.
May 14, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
Rehearsal for the May 14, 9:30 ceremony will be on Thursday, May 12, 4:00 to
5:00 p.m. and for the 12:00 ceremony from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. in the Church.
13
NINTH GRADE
Confirmation Preparation

September 27, 2015 – 10:00 a.m. Parent/Candidate Meeting - OLF Gym
NOTE:
If the Confirmation candidate was not baptized at OLF or
did not receive his/her First Holy Communion at OLF, a
copy of his/her baptismal certificate is required.
 November 1, 2015 – Saint Report Due
 January 10, 2016 – Service Report Due
 March 13, 2016 – 10:00 a.m. Sponsor/Candidate Meeting - OLF Gym
 May 15, 2016 – Pentecost Sunday, Candidates to be presented at
Mass – 10:30 a.m. – OLF Church
 Sponsor Certificate must be obtained from Parish of sponsor and
submitted within 6 months of Confirmation Date.
CONFIRMATION TO TAKE PLACE IN THE FALL OF 2016
(Candidates will be notified of exact date in early July 2016.)
14
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CURRICULUM
GRADES PRE-K THROUGH 5
PRE-K
Pre-K students are introduced to God’s loving care as they experience His presence through
stories, music, sharing, and art.
KINDERGARTEN---GOD LOVES US
The Kindergarten curriculum celebrates God’s love through a discovery of all the good God
has created. Children are introduced to the Holy Spirit and are encouraged to pray and be
kind to one another. Mary is presented as the one who always said “Yes” to God.
GRADE ONE---GOD IS GOOD
The First Grade curriculum provides the foundation for the children’s spiritual growth and
the development of their knowledge of the Catholic faith. Through learning of God’s
goodness as Creator and Savior, and the love of Jesus, the students are called upon to
respond to God in prayer and friendship.
GRADE TWO---GOD CARES FOR US
The Second Grade program introduces the children to Jesus’ loving forgiveness which
results in the peace of the sacrament of Reconciliation. The Eucharist is seen as a
sacrament of nourishment, unity, and God’s great love for us. Children learn the parts of
the Mass and how we participate.
GRADE THREE---WE BELIEVE
Students in Grade Three are led to understand that they are members of a family of
believers, the Church. The curriculum presents basic Catholic beliefs, as expressed in the
Creed.
GRADE FOUR---GOD GUIDES US
The Fourth Grade program helps the children view the Commandments and the Beatitudes
as God-given guidelines for living a good life, pleasing to God. Students are encouraged to
respond with faith and love by keeping God’s commands.
GRADE FIVE---WE WORSHIP
The Fifth Grade curriculum is designed to help the students understand that God has given
us a share in divine life. By focusing on the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, children
are enabled to celebrate these encounters with Christ and deepen their understanding
through liturgy. The subjects of abortion and morality are presented in an age-appropriate
manner in one chapter of the text.
15
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CALENDAR
2015-2016
GRADES 1 - 5 (4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Sept.
Oct.
MONDAY
TUESDAY
21
28
22
29
WEDNESDAY
23 (No Class)
30
5
12 (No Class)
19
26
6
13 (No Class)
20
27
2
9
16
23 (No Class)
30
3 (No Class)
10
17 (No Class)
24 (No Class)
4
11 (No Class)
18 (No Class)
25 (No Class)
7
14 (No Class)
21 (No Class)
28 (No Class)
1
8
15 (No Class)
22 (No Class)
29 (No Class)
2
9
16 (No Class)
23 (No Class)
30 (No Class)
Jan.
4
11
18 (No Class)
25
5
12
19 (No Class)*
26
6
13
20 (No Class)*
27
Feb.
1
8
15 (No Class)
22
29
2
9
16
23
3
10
17
24
7
14
21
28
1
8
15
22
29
2
9
16
23
30
4
5
6
Nov.
Dec.
Mar.
Apr.
7
14
21
28
PLEASE NOTE: PICK UP TIME IS 5:00 P.M. – PROMPTLY – FOR ALL CLASSES.
*Catechist Meetings will be held on this date.
16
KINDERGARTEN AND PRE-SCHOOL
SUNDAY MORNING – 9:00 A.M.
October 18
October 25
November 1
November 8 – NO CLASS
November 15
November 22
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6
December 13
December 20, 27 – NO CLASS
January 3 – NO CLASS
January 10
January 17 – NO CLASS
January 24
January 31 – NO MORNING CLASS
February 7
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21
February 28
March 6 – NO CLASS
March 13
March 20
March 27 – NO CLASS
April 3
April 10
HAPPY SUMMER!
17
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CURRICULUM
GRADES 6 THROUGH 9
GRADE SIX---GOD CALLS A PEOPLE
The Grade Six curriculum is dedicated to the study of God’s saving love, as
seen in the Old Testament. Students learn to appreciate their connection with
the Jewish people while deepening their understanding of Jesus, the promised
Messiah.
GRADE SEVEN---JESUS, THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE
In Seventh Grade, students study the New Testament and see the impact of
Jesus on our lives. Jesus’ early life and the culture of first century Palestine
are examined, as well as His ministry of healing and love. Sacraments and
RCIA are discussed in detail.
GRADE EIGHT---THE CHURCH THEN AND NOW
The Eighth Grade program strives to deepen student understanding of Church
through a study of its history by examining Scriptural images and models, the
saints, commandments, and virtues that enable us to give witness as
members. Children see how the Church has been guided by the Holy Spirit
throughout the ages, in good times and in bad times.
GRADE NINE
The Ninth Grade curriculum includes an overview of basic teachings from the
Creed, as well as a discussion of morality, sacraments, and prayer. This year
is immediate preparation for Confirmation.
18
6th GRADE MORNING CALENDAR
2015-2016
SUNDAY, 9:15-10:15 A.M.
FIRST SEMESTER
October 18 - Chapter 1
October 25 – Chapter 2
November 1 – Chapters 3 and 4
November 8 – NO CLASS
*November 15 – Chapters 5 and 6
November 22 – Chapters 7 and 8
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6 – Chapters 9 and 10
December 13 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 1
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 10:00 A.M.)
December 20, 27 – NO CLASS
(CONTINUED ON SECOND SEMESTER)
*The sixth grade students will attend 4:30 P.M. Mass on November 15.
19
6TH Grade Morning
SECOND SEMESTER
January 3 – NO CLASS
January 10 – Chapters 11 and 12
January 17 – NO CLASS
January 24 – Chapters 13 and 14
January 31 – NO MORNING CLASS
February 7 – Chapters 15 and 16
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21 – Chapters 17 and 18
February 28 – Chapters 19 and 20
March 6 – NO CLASS
March 13 – Chapters 21 and 22
March 20 – Chapter 23
March 27 – NO CLASS
APRIL 3 – Chapter 24
APRIL 10 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 2
(EARLY DISMISSAL 10:00 A.M.)
HAPPY SUMMER!
20
6th GRADE EVENING CALENDAR
2015-2016
SUNDAY, 5:30 – 6:30 P.M.
FIRST SEMESTER
October 18 – Chapter 1
October 25- Chapter 2
November 1 – Chapters 3 and 4
November 8 – NO CLASS
*November 15 – Chapters 5 and 6
November 22 – Chapters 7 and 8
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6 – Chapters 9 and 10
December 13 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 1
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 6:15 P.M.)
December 20, 27 – NO CLASS
(CONTINUED ON SECOND SEMESTER)
*The sixth grade students will attend 4:30 Mass on November 15 AND attend class at 5:30 P.M.
21
6th Grade Evening
SECOND SEMESTER
January 3 – NO CLASS
January 10 –Chapters 11 and 12
January 17 – NO CLASS
January 24 – Chapters 13 and 14
January 31– Chapters 15 and 16
February 7 – NO EVENING CLASS
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21 – Chapters 17 and 18
February 28 – Chapter 19 and 20
March 6 – NO CLASS
March 13 – Chapters 21 and 22
March 20 – Chapter 23
March 27 – NO CLASS
April 3 – Chapter 24
April 10 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 2
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 6:15 P.M.)
HAPPY SUMMER!
22
PREPARING FOR CONFIRMATION
GRADES 7-9
Confirmation preparation at Our Lady of Fatima is a three-year program
beginning in seventh grade and concluding at the end of ninth grade. Prior
attendance at Religious Education classes - grades one through six - or a
Catholic school, is required. However, arrangements can be made for
tutorial assistance for those children who have not participated in the
program for any or all of those grades.
Each Confirmation candidate must complete thirty (30) hours of
community service by January of ninth grade. Service may be done
in seventh, eighth, and/or ninth grade, but the form for the Service Hour
Report is distributed to candidates at the beginning of ninth grade. This
form is to be completed and returned on the designated January date.
Each student is responsible for keeping track of his/her own
service hours. Thus, no Service Hour report is expected in seventh or
eighth grade.
There are numerous opportunities for service in our area. Please contact
any member of the Religious Education staff for suggestions, many of
which are included in this Directory on pages 34 and 35.
23
7th GRADE MORNING CALENDAR
2015-2016
SUNDAY, 9:15 – 10:15 A.M.
FIRST SEMESTER
October 18 – Chapters 1 and 2
October 25 – Chapters 3 and 4
November 1 – Chapters 6 and 7
November 8 – NO CLASS
November 15 – Chapter 8
November 22 – Chapters 9 and 10
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6 – Chapter 5 (Christmas Chapter)
December 13 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 1
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 10:00 A.M.)
December 20, 27 – NO CLASS
(CONTINUED ON SECOND SEMESTER)
24
7th Grade Morning
SECOND SEMESTER
January 3 – NO CLASS
*January 10 – Chapters 10 and 11
January 17 – NO CLASS
January 24 – Chapters 12 and 13
January 31 – NO MORNING CLASS
February 7 – Chapters 14 and 15
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21 – Chapters 16 and 17
February 28 – Chapters 18 and 19
March 6 – NO CLASS
March 13 – Chapters 20 and 21
March 20 – Chapters 22 and 23
March 27 – NO CLASS
April 3 – Chapter 24
April 10 - REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 2
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 10:00 A.M.)
This is the first year of Confirmation preparation. Regular attendance is expected, and it is the
responsibility of the student to complete all assigned readings, homework, and tests. All Confirmation
Candidates are expected to complete 30 hours of service between the beginning of 7th Grade and January
of 9th Grade at which time a Service Hour Report on the whole 30 hours will be due. If your child cannot
be present on the day of a test, please make arrangements in advance for him/her to take the test by
calling the Religious Education Office.
*The seventh grade students will attend 4:30 Mass on January 10.
25
7TH GRADE EVENING CALENDAR
2015-2016
SUNDAY, 5:30 – 6:30 P.M.
FIRST SEMESTER
October 18 – Chapters 1 and 2
October 25 – Chapters 3 and 4
November 1 – Chapter 6
November 8 – NO CLASS
November 15 – Chapters 7 and 8
November 22 – Chapters 9 and 10
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6 – Chapter 5 (Christmas Chapter)
December 13 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 1
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 6:15 P.M.)
December 20, 27 – NO CLASS
(CONTINUED ON SECOND SEMESTER)
26
7th Grade Evening
SECOND SEMESTER
January 3 – NO CLASS
*January 10 – Chapters 10 and 11
January 17 – NO CLASS
January 24 – Chapters 12 and 13
January 31 – Chapters 14 and 15
February 7 – NO EVENING CLASS
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21 – Chapters 16 and 17
February 28 – Chapters 18 and 19
March 6 – NO CLASS
March 13 – Chapters 20 and 21
March 20 – Chapters 22 and 23
March 27 – NO CLASS
April 3 – Chapter 24
April 10 - REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 2
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 6:15 P.M.)
This is the first year of Confirmation preparation. Regular attendance is expected, and it is the
responsibility of the student to complete all assigned readings, homework, and tests. All Confirmation
Candidates are expected to complete 30 hours of service between the beginning of 7th Grade and January
of 9th Grade at which time a Service Hour Report on the whole 30 hours will be due. If your child cannot
be present on the day of a test, please make arrangements in advance for him/her to take the test by
calling the Religious Education Office.
*The seventh grade students will attend 4:30 P.M. Mass on January 10 AND class at 5:30 P.M.
27
8TH GRADE MORNING CALENDAR
2015-2016
SUNDAY, 9:15 – 10:15 A.M.
FIRST SEMESTER
October 18 – Chapter 1
October 25 - Chapters 2 and 3
November 1 – Chapters 4 and 5
November 8 – NO CLASS
November 15 – Chapters 6 and 7
November 22 – Chapter 8 and 9
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6 – Chapters 10 and 11
December 13 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 1
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 10:00 A.M.)
December 20, 27 – NO CLASS
(CONTINUED ON SECOND SEMESTER)
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8th Grade Morning
SECOND SEMESTER
January 3 – NO CLASS
January 10 – Chapters 12 and 13
January 17 – NO CLASS
January 24 – Chapters 14 and 15
January 31 – NO MORNING CLASS
February 7 – Chapters 16 and 17
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21 – Chapters 18 and 19
February 28 – Chapters 20 and 21
March 6 – NO CLASS
*March 13 – Chapters 22
March 20 – Chapters 23
March 27 – NO CLASS
April 3 – Chapter 24
April 10 - REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 2
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 10:00 A.M.)
This is the second year of Confirmation preparation. Regular attendance is expected, and it is the
responsibility of the student to complete all assigned readings, homework, and tests. All Confirmation
Candidates are expected to complete 30 hours of service between the beginning of 7th Grade and January
of 9th Grade at which time a Service Hour Report on the whole 30 hours will be due. If your child cannot
be present on the day of a test, please make arrangements in advance for him/her to take the test by
calling the Religious Education Office.
*The eighth grade students will attend 4:30 P.M. Mass on March 13.
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8th GRADE EVENING CALENDAR
2015-2016
SUNDAY, 5:30 – 6:30 P.M.
FIRST SEMESTER
October 18 – Chapter 1
October 25 - Chapters 2 and 3
November 1 – Chapters 4 and 5
November 8 – NO CLASS
November 15 – Chapters 6 and 7
November 22 – Chapter 8 and 9
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6 – Chapter 10 and 11
December 13 – REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 1
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 6:15 P.M.)
December 20, 27 – NO CLASS
(CONTINUED ON SECOND SEMESTER)
30
8th Grade Evening
SECOND SEMESTER
January 3 – NO CLASS
January 10 – Chapters 12 and 13
January 17 – NO CLASS
January 24 – Chapters 14 and 15
January 31 – Chapters 16 and 17
February 7 – NO EVENING CLASS
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21 – Chapters 18 and 19
February 28 – Chapters 20 and 21
March 6 – NO CLASS
*March 13 – Chapter 22
March 20 – Chapters 23
March 27 – NO CLASS
April 3 – Chapter 24
April 10 - REVIEW OF STUDY GUIDE AND TEST 2
(EARLY DISMISSAL – 6:15 P.M.)
This is the second year of Confirmation preparation. Regular attendance is expected, and it is
the responsibility of the student to complete all assigned readings, homework, and tests. All
Confirmation Candidates are expected to complete 30 hours of service between the beginning of
7th Grade and January of 9th Grade at which time a Service Hour Report on the whole 30 hours
will be due. If your child cannot be present on the day of a test, please make arrangements in
advance for him/her to take the test by calling the Religious Education Office.
*The eighth grade students will attend 4:30 P.M. Mass on March 13 AND attend class at 5:30 P.M.
31
9th GRADE SCHEDULE 2015-2016
SUNDAY MORNING – 9:15 – 10:15 A.M.
SUNDAY EVENING – 5:30 – 6:30 P.M.
SEMESTER 1
September 27 – PARENT/CANDIDATE MEETING, 10:00 A.M., OLF SCHOOL GYM
October 4 – NO CLASS
October 11 – NO CLASS
October 18
October 25
November 1 - (SAINT REPORT DUE)
November 8 – NO CLASS
November 15
November 22 – 9:00 A.M. MASS, REVIEW, AND TEST FOR ALL 9TH GRADE MORNING AND
EVENING STUDENTS - Dismissal 10:45 A.M. (NO EVENING CLASS FOR GRADE 9)
November 29 – NO CLASS
December 6, 13, 20, 27 – NO CLASS
SEMESTER 2
January 3 – NO CLASS
January 10 (SERVICE REPORT DUE)
January 17 –NO CLASS
January 24
January 31 – NO MORNING CLASS
February 7 – NO EVENING CLASS
February 14 – NO CLASS
February 21
February 28 - 9:00 A.M. MASS, REVIEW, AND TEST FOR ALL 9TH GRADE MORNING AND
EVENING STUDENTS – Dismissal 10:45 A.M. (NO EVENING CLASS FOR GRADE 9)
March 13 – SPONSOR/CANDIDATE MEETING, 10:00 A.M., OLF SCHOOL GYM
May 15 – Pentecost Sunday – Presentation of Confirmation Candidates at 10:30 Mass
NOTE: This is the third year of Confirmation preparation. Regular attendance is expected.
Please note attendance policy for 9th Graders in this handbook. It is the responsibility of the student to
complete all assigned readings, homework, and tests. All Confirmation Candidates are expected to have
completed 30 hours of service by January 10, 2016. On that day (or before), a Service Hour Report should
be given to the Religious Education catechist. If for some reason your child cannot be present on the day
of a test, please make arrangements in advance for him/her to take the test by calling the Religious
Education Office.
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Youth Ministry at Our Lady of Fatima
The purpose of Youth Ministry at Our Lady of Fatima is to meet the spiritual and social
needs of our young people. Our Youth Programs attempt to touch upon various
components, which include advocacy, catechesis, community life, evangelization,
justice, service, leadership development, pastoral care, guidance, prayer and worship
through a variety of activities and events in the parish and community. The goals of the
program are to empower teens to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today, to
draw teens to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic
faith community, and to foster the total personal and spiritual growth of each teen.
There are separate programs for our high school and our junior high school students:
 The Junior Youth Group, comprised of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, primarily
focuses on service-oriented projects combined with social community building
activities through which the youth can feel comfortable expressing and sharing
their faith with their peers.
 The High School Youth Group offers teens an age-appropriate faith community
where they come together to pray, worship, learn, support one another, and have
fun. In addition, there is focus on extending our teens’ faith formation through
various spiritual, service, and social activities. Programs such as Mission Trips,
MACTREC (Many Awesome Catholic Teens Really Encountering Christ) and
BLAST (Big Loud Awesome Spiritual Thing) provide social activities
encouraging our teens to live out their lives by coming to know Jesus and making
Him known to others.
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Our Lady of Fatima Youth Ministry Service Projects
“God calls us by name to help one another”
All Confirmation Candidates are expected to complete 30 hours of service
between the beginning of 7th Grade and the middle of 9th Grade at which time
a Service Hour Report on the entire 30 hours is due. Volunteer work, where one is
not paid, is considered service work. The Youth Group is voluntary and the service
projects listed below are only suggestions.
Ambler Farm Day – Contact: Special Events@info@amblerfarm.org
Volunteer at Ambler Farm Day on Sunday, October 4, 2015, for a two-hour shift between
12:00 PM and 4 PM.
The volunteer list is completed in early September.
See www.amblerfarm.org for information on this fun Fall Fair.
American Cancer Society – Contact: 563-0740
Help weekdays after school in Wilton office (across the street from town tennis courts) assisting
with large mailings.
Miller/Driscoll Family Fun Night & Winter Carnival – Contact: TBD
Help set up & clean up as well as run activities, games, booths at these events. Held in early
March.
Religious Education/Youth Ministry Office Help – Contact: Religious Education
Office, 762-9080. Assist with large mailings (labeling, stuffing), stuffing Church bulletins, filing.
School Sisters of Notre Dame – Contact: Michele Santos, 762-3318
Call them directly for their specific needs.
Brookdale Assisted Living Facility - Contact: Gleeka, Activities Director, 761-8999
Work with the elderly by playing games (scrabble, cards, etc.) or in exercise programs (walking
courses on facility grounds), playing an instrument or singing to residents.
Vacation Bible School – Contact: Kathleen Rooney, 762-9080
Camp Counselors assist with games, crafts, bible lessons, etc. Held for one week in late June or
early July.
Wilton Family Y
Work in after-school program tutoring young children & help with various tasks.
Wilton Library – Contact: 762-3950
Work at stacking books on shelves & help with various tasks.
34
Sample Service Projects sponsored by the Junior Youth Group
(6th, 7th, and 8th Graders) or High School Youth Group (9th-12th Graders)
“Our hearts tell us that in serving others, we are blessed with
the joy that comes from receiving more than we give.”
Contact the Youth Ministry at olfyouthgroup2@gmail.com or
762-9080 for information about the projects listed below.
Easter Egg Hunt (Jr. Youth Group)
Coordinate Egg Hunt including hiding eggs, help with registration & hospitality. (Rain or Shine)
Arts and Crafts Parties (All Groups)
Make crafts at local assisted living & nursing homes. Held during the school year.
Car Washes (All Groups)
Wash cars for fundraising purposes. Held fall and/or spring seasons.
Christmas Party (H.S. Youth Group)
Sponsor a party for the First Communion Class of 2nd & 3rd graders from an inner-city Bridgeport
Church in our Diocese. Help with hot lunch, games, presents, and a visit from Santa Claus for
the children. Held in early December.
Collection Drives (Food, Books, Baby Items) (All Groups)
Collect items to donate to local charities & shelters. Assist at local non-profit organizations. Held
during school year.
Mission Trips (H.S. Youth Group)
Work during mission trip helping the poor & needy in the world. Held shortly after school ends
for summer break.
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CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG
December 7, 8, 9, 2015
In an effort to acquaint Religious Education students with
traditional religious Christmas songs, a performance for parents
and families will be given in the OLF Church at 4:30 p.m.
The children will perform songs they have learned, and listen to a
special Christmas story. Children are asked to wear red,
white, or green in keeping with the Christmas holiday
colors. Prior to this sing-along, children will enjoy a Christmas
snack supplied by the Religious Education office.
This exciting performance has become a joyful holiday tradition
for both students and their teachers.
36
CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
December 24, 2015
4:00 p.m.
We are happy to have your child/children participate in the 2015 Christmas Pageant held
during the 4:00 p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve. All 1st through 5th graders who are not in
Mrs. McGowan’s choir are eligible.
Registration forms for this event will be handed out to students in Grades 1
through 5 in class during the week of November 2nd. Check your child’s backpack
for forms. If your child is absent, please come into the Religious Education office
to pick up your registration form or download one from our website. Homeschool children can download a form from our website or pick one up in the
Religious Education office.
General Information: Registration forms for participation in the Pageant must be
returned to the Religious Education Office no later than 3:00 p.m. on Friday, November
13, 2015 at which time all parts will be drawn by lottery and assigned. You will be sent an
email with the results. In order to be fair to all, no request for a specific part will be taken,
no names will be accepted after the lottery drawing, and children may not switch parts. We
ask that you discuss the part with your child prior to the rehearsal and notify us if he/she
does not want the part assigned so we may draw another name.
Available parts are:
Grade
Grade
Grade
Grade
Grade
1
2
3
4
5
–
–
–
–
–
Biblical Animals - 8
Honor Guards – 10
Angels, Shepherds, Gift Bearers – 8
People of the Nativity – 7
Readers –12
Costumes for the Pageant must be provided by the parents with the exception of
the Honor Guard who will be given gowns.
Children are required to attend both rehearsals. Rehearsal times are:
Friday, December 11 – 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. for all participants, in Church
Monday, December 21 – 4:00 to 4:15 p.m. for 2nd and 5th graders in Church
4:15 to 5:00 p.m. for 1st, 3rd, 4th graders and Narrators in Church
37
HOME-SCHOOL TESTING CALENDAR
2015-2016
Welcome to our Home-school Religious Education Program. Children may be
registered for the following year only after successfully completing all curriculum
obligations. If you are unable to make the test date, you may arrange with the
Religious Education Office to take the test BEFORE the assigned test date.
Grade
Unit
Date/Time
March 20, 2016 – 9:00 a.m.
(at OLF School)
Make-Up Date
1
Prayers Tested
Books Checked
Call to schedule an appointment.
2
Since this is a Sacrament year, Rel. Ed. class attendance is required.
3
1&2
December 13, 2015
(Pick up test on or before test date and return by Dec.17.)
3
3&4&5
March 20, 2016
(Pick up test on or before test date and return by March 24.)
The following tests for Grades 4-8 will be administered at OLF School:
4
1&2
December 13, 2015 – 9:30 a.m.
December 17, 2015 – 3:30 p.m.
4
3&4&5
March 20, 2016 - 9:30 a.m.
March 24, 2016 – 3:30 p.m.
5
1&2
December 13, 2015 – 9:30 a.m.
December 17, 2015 – 3:30 p.m.
5
3&4&5
March 20, 2016 – 9:30 a.m.
March 24, 2016 – 3:30 p.m.
6
Test 1
December 13, 2015 – 9:15 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.
6
Test 2
April 10, 2016 – 9:15 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.
7
Test 1
December 13, 2015 – 9:15 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.
7
Test 2
April 10, 2016 – 9:15 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.
8
Test 1
December 13, 2015 – 9:15 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.
8
Test 2
April 10, 2016 – 9:15 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.
9
Since this is a Sacrament year, Rel. Ed. class attendance is required.
(CONTINUED)
38
(Home School Continued)
Please note the following:
 Grade 1 will be tested on the Sign of the Cross, the Our Father, The Hail
Mary, and the Glory Be as per diocesan requirements.
 Tests for Grade 3 may be picked up one week prior to test date. Please
return Test #1 no later than December 17, 2015 and Test #2 no later than
March 24, 2016.
 Tests for Grades 4 through 8 are given in OLF School.
 Study guides for Grades 4 through 8 are included in this handbook.
 Students are required to bring their books on the test dates as they will
be checked for completion.
 If a scheduled test must be cancelled due to inclement weather, please
check the radio station WEBE 108 and/or TV Channel 12. The Religious
Education Office will notify you of the rescheduled date.
 Please note that books and tests must be completed, prior to registration for
the following year.
39
HOME SCHOOL STUDY GUIDE
GRADE 4
TEST 1 (Units 1 & 2)
Know the Following:
Baptism
New Testament
Catholics
Old Testament
Conscience
Pope
Contrition
Reconciliation
Examination of conscience
Sacred Scripture
Faith
St. Peter
Incarnation
Trinity
Mary
Venial sin
TEST 2 (Units 3, 4, and 5)
Know the Following:
List the Ten Commandments in order
4 kinds of prayer (p. 78)
Know 2 of the Beatitudes
40
HOME SCHOOL STUDY GUIDE
GRADE 5
TEST 1 (Units 1 & 2)
Know the Following:
2 Main parts of the Mass
Original sin
Sacramentary
7 Sacraments/describe each
Paschal Mystery
Seasons of the Church Year
Chalice
Pentecost
Sign of Peace
Ciborium
RCIA
Tabernacle
Consecration (pg. 58)
Rite of the Sacrament
Works of Mercy (pg. 70)
Meaning of the Eucharist
Sacramentals
TEST 2 (Units 3, 4, and 5)
Know the Following:
Absolution
Love and Marriage (pg. 120)
Clergy
Sacraments of Healing (pg. 102)
Contrition
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Examination of Conscience
Sin – venial and mortal
Holy Orders (priests, deacons, bishops)
Viaticum
“Keys to the Kingdom,” (pg. 94)
Laity
Vocation
Vows
Who can receive Anointing of the Sick (pg.97)
41
6th GRADE HOME SCHOOL and RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CLASSES
STUDY GUIDE
TEST 1, DECEMBER 2015 (Chapters 1-10)
Know the Following:
Hebrews
Story of Abraham
Number of books in the Old Testament
Unit 1 Review, pp. 31-32
4 sections of the Old Testament (pp. 12-13)
Story of Jacob and Esau
3 Religious truths in creation stories (p. 18)
p. 76
Story of Adam and Eve
Story of Noah
Story of the tower of Babel
Unit 2 Review, pp. 62-63
TEST 2, APRIL 2016 (Chapters 11-24)
Know the Following:
The Ten Commandments in order
Name 3 judges
Exodus
The Liturgical Year, p. 90
Name three kings
John the Baptist
Mortal and venial sin
Unit 4 Review, p. 135
p. 96
3 prophets and what they did
4 ways of being reconciled with God
3 conditions for a mortal sin
Unit 3 Review, pp. 110-111
42
7th GRADE HOME SCHOOL and RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CLASSES
STUDY GUIDE
TEST 1, DECEMBER 2015 (Chapters 1-8)
Know the Following:
Infancy narratives
meaning of gospel
meaning of Jesus
Synoptic gospels
meaning of synoptic
# of books in New Testament
12 apostles
2 signs/symbols of Baptism
Gentile
Symbols of gospel writers
first & best disciple
Abba
3 titles of Jesus
Pharisees
RCIA
Shema
last book of the Bible
Sadducees
Paschal Mystery
Sacraments of initiation
TEST 2, APRIL 2016 (Chapters 10-24)
Know the Following:
Parable/example of one
3 symbols of the passion (p. 136)
Pentecost acrostic (p. 148)
3 vows that religious take
Euthanasia
Beatitudes (in general)
Sacraments of healing, service
5 things Jesus has power over
Viaticum
cardinal and theological virtues
p. 104 (TRUE OR FALSE)
p. 142
p. 124 (SORTING EVENTS)
transubstantiation
4 elements necessary for Reconciliation
4 ways we encounter the risen Lord (p. 139)
43
8th GRADE HOME SCHOOL and RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CLASSES
STUDY GUIDE
TEST 1, DECEMBER 2015 (Chapters 1-11)
Know the Following:
Sacraments of initiation
Ecumenism
Models of the Church
Scriptural images of church
Council of Jerusalem
Diocese
Sacraments of healing
Stephen
communion of saints
Sacraments of service
Cornelius
evangelization
Acts of the Apostles
marks of the Church
Paul
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Paschal Mystery
Peter
4 Characteristics of the early Christian community
3 responsibilities as members of the Church
TEST 2, APRIL 2016 (Chapters 12-24)
Know the Following:
Constantine
theological virtues
Crusades
moral/cardinal virtues
St. Vincent de Paul
Council of Trent
St. Catherine of Siena
St. Julie Billiart
Pope St. Gregory
Martin Luther
Second Vatican Council
Charlemagne
p. 145 (even numbers)
Holy Days of Obligation
4 types of prayer, p. 161
St. Thomas More
Protestant Reformation
martyr
“Tactics for Christian Growth,” pg. 156
10 Commandments in order
Liturgical cycle first and last Sundays
44
9th GRADE
STUDY GUIDE
TEST 1, NOVEMBER 2015
*** TO BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE SEPTEMBER 27TH MEETING ***
TEST 2, FEBRUARY 2016
*** TO BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE SEPTEMBER 27TH MEETING ***
45