Religious Education Program
Catechist Handbook
Table of Contents
Pgs. 2-3
MISSION & VISION STATEMENTS, PROGRAM
GOALS
Pgs. 4-13
THE CATECHIST: Role, Responsibilities
Pgs. 14-17
DISCIPLINE: Behavior Policies. Weapons Policy
Page 18
CATECHIST CERTIFICATION
Page 19
CURRICULUM: Textbooks, Guidelines, Prayer
Requirements
Pgs. 20-22
EMERGENCY & SAFETY ISSUES: Fire, Weather,
Injuries, Child Abuse Policy, Blood-Borne Pathogens
Policy for Protection of Children
Pgs. 24-26
CATECHIST FORMS: Class Planning Schedule,
Lesson Outline, Request For Supplies Form
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Mission Statement
Our Lady of Peace is a Catholic community of faith called to proclaim the
greatness of the Lord through Worship, Service, Education and Ministry.
Vision Statement
The Religious Education vision is a continuous formation of faith through
education in Catholic Christian living to encourage participation and practice
in building a community based on the life example of Jesus Christ
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PROGRAM GOALS:
To provide a program of formal religious education
for the children and youth of the parish.
To support parents in their role as primary educators of their
children.
To offer sacramental preparation to children and youth.
To help youth discover the richness and challenges of
Scripture and the teachings and traditions of the Catholic
Church.
To build a strong Catholic identity among the
children and youth of the parish.
To allow children and youth to experience the Church as
community.
To deepen the prayer life of children and youth.
To motivate youth to live lives rooted in charity and
justice based on the moral teachings of the church.
To expose students to the liturgical and sacramental
richness that is part of the Catholic Tradition.
To enable students to become responsible, self-reflecting,
loving and praying individuals.
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ROLE OF A CATECHIST
The catechist has one of the most important jobs in the world.
They have the opportunity to share their faith in Jesus Christ
and the Traditions of the Church with fellow Catholics. This
ministry in the church participates in the ministry of the Bishop
of the Diocese, who is its chief teacher. The Bishop delegates
this responsibility to the pastor of the parish, who in turn shares
this privilege with the catechist. To share in this task of the
church is a great privilege and a great responsibility.
Parents are trusting that catechists will responsibly assist them in
nurturing the faith formation of their children. Catechists provide
an environment which nurtures the faith life of their students
and ensures their safety. In order to do this, it is crucial for all
catechists to be aware of their responsibilities and have a clear
understanding of their duties. This handbook provides
information that will enable catechists to perform their duties
and minister the Gospel of Christ effectively.
The pastoral staff at Our Lady of Peace Church greatly appreciates your
time & talents that are being shared with our youth.
BENEFITS TO THE CATECHIST:
Free Religious Education tuition for catechist’s children &
grandchildren
Criminal Record Check (PA Act 34) and Child Abuse History
Clearance (PA Act 151) are free for volunteers
Training /certification opportunities free of cost
Spiritual enrichment opportunities free of cost
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CATECHIST RESPONSIBILITIES:
Be a practicing Catholic who accepts the teachings of the
Church and follows its laws.
Be a model of a Christian lifestyle in and out of the
classroom.
Communicate the authentic teachings of the Catholic Church.
Be a person of prayer.
Be willing to share his/her faith story, when appropriate, with
the students.
Share the love of Christ with the students through
openness, listening, respect and forgiveness.
Continue to grow in his/her own understanding of Christ's
call and Church teachings.
Pray and celebrate liturgy with students, when possible.
Foster community among the students in the classroom.
Challenge the students to live lives of justice and love
based on Scripture and the moral teachings of the Catholic
Church.
Continually evaluate his/her performance as a catechist and
try to improve.
Follow the policies and procedures in this handbook.
-5-
CATECHIST PROCEDURES:
Spend an appropriate amount of time planning before
each class. See Lesson Planning below.
Arrive at least 30 minutes in advance of the scheduled
starting time to help monitor the halls and greet students
upon their arrival to your classroom.
Pick up attendance folder and mail from your mailbox in
the Faith Formation Office and read the Catechist
Newsletter prior to the start of class.
Supervise the students in the class you are teaching,
making sure to provide a safe catechetical environment.
Maintain discipline in the classroom following the policies
outlined in this handbook.
LESSON PLANNING
Because of the importance of planning and organization in order to
teach effectively, each catechist is expected to spend sufficient time
prior to class planning his/her lesson. A lesson plan is to be written for
each class. Lesson plans are to be submitted to the Faith Formation
Director at the end of class each week. Lesson plans should be left in the
lesson plan box in the Faith Formation Office.
Planning is important not only for the individual class session, but for
the entire year. A calendar for planning the catechetical year has been
given to you.
SUBSTITUTE CATECHISTS
Catechists who have to miss a class session are to request a substitute
catechist as far in advance as possible so that a substitute may be
contacted. It is the responsibility of the catechist requesting the
substitute to have a lesson plan for the substitute to use.
Lesson outline for the substitute must be brought or emailed to the Faith
Formation Office by noon on Wednesday of the week that a substitute is
requested.
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POLICIES:
CATECHIST SCREENING
Everyone who works with children in the parish catechetical
program must have on file a Criminal Record Check through the
State Police of the state in which they reside (PA-Act 34) as well
as the Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History
Clearance from the state in which they reside (PA-Act 151.)
These clearances must be obtained before someone can assume
responsibilities with children or youth. Catechists must go to the PA
websites to obtain clearances.
Catechists will also complete a Diocese of Erie Application Form
including a Protection of Children Statement of Compliance and have
references checked.
CHILD PROTECTION TRAINING
Catechists are also required to participate in Diocesan-approved Child
Protection In-Servicing. This in-service, provided online, consists of
watching a video, answering questions, and printing 2 copies of the
certificate. One copy of the certificate must be turned in to the Faith
Formation Office. This training will enable the catechist to understand
and respond to issues of child safety and welfare.
CHILD ABUSE MANDATED REPORTING
All persons who come into contact with children in the course of his or
her work or professional practice must report suspected or actual child
abuse or neglect to the Faith Formation Director. [See Policy for the
Protection of Children p.11] This is a mandate of both Pennsylvania
State Law and Diocesan Policy.
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MAINTAINING STUDENT CONFIDENCES
Occasionally students will share their personal problems with the
catechists. This can be very beneficial and helpful for the child or youth.
Catechists must make the students aware, however, that there is a point at
which the catechist must share information with the Faith Formation
Director and/or the student's parent(s). A brief statement such as, "I will
keep your confidence unless the life, health or safety of yourself or others is
involved", can help students understand that catechists are legally
responsible to pass on such information.
CATECHIST/STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS
Often, as catechists work with students, they form caring relationships
with them. Good relationships with the students can help foster
faith growth. However, caution must be exercised in relationships that
develop between catechists and students. The catechist is the one
responsible for making sure relationships with students are appropriate.
Catechists should avoid situations that would appear to be
inappropriate.
Catechists should avoid being alone with students in an area
hidden from view.
Caution should be used when touching a child. Any touch that
could be interpreted as sexual must be avoided. Hugs should
be appropriate and initiated by the child.
Catechists should never transport students when they would be
alone with a student in the car. Call the parents and wait with the
child.
If a relationship with one child keeps the catechist from meeting
the needs of the other students on a regular basis, the relationship
should be examined.
Catechists who find themselves sharing their personal problems
with students are well beyond what is appropriate and should end
the relationship.
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REQUESTS FOR SUPPLIES
The Faith Formation Office provides all necessary supplies for the
students; pencils, pens, paper, crayons, markers, scissors, glue, etc.
Supplies found in the classrooms are not to be used by the catechist or
students. To request supplies, please email or call Tammie and
Donna no later than Thursday of the week needed.
The following are items that must be requested in advance:
Copies-- must be requested by noon on Thursday before the
Sunday that you need them. No copies will be run on Sundays.
Videos & DVDs--should be requested at least one week in
advance. Because a machine is in your room, please do not
assume that it will be available for your use. Not every room has
video equipment so whoever requests it first will get to use it.
The following are items that may be requested in advance. If a
Request Form is completed the office assistant will have the items
ready for you on Sunday.
Craft supplies, paper, books, games, markers
Bibles--will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis because
our supply is limited.
ATTENDANCE
Each catechist must record attendance at the beginning of each class using
the attendance sheet provided. Two forms are provided; one is for the Faith
Formation office and the other is the catechist’s copy. Mark each student
either present with a check mark or absent with a capital “A”. Absentee
excuses or early dismissal requests are to be put in the attendance folder.
Completed attendance sheets are to be placed outside the classroom
door in the red attendance folder. An office volunteer will collect the
folders.
If a student misses two or more classes in a row, without an excuse or an
arrangement to make up the missed work with you, please notify the Faith
Formation Director in writing, preferably via e-mail. The FFD will then
contact the parents and will follow through with you. It is important for you
to let the office know if an arrangement has been made to make up the
work. If the office contacts families when an arrangement exists,
misunderstandings can occur.
-9-
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS
ELEMENTARY PROGRAM
Catechists must be in their classroom by 10:15 am to greet their
students at the classroom door and to ensure the students are not
left alone in the classrooms.
Catechists and students are to remain in the classroom until their grade
level is dismissed to the cafeteria. It is the catechist's responsibility to
remain with his/her students until student is picked up by their
parent/guardian. Never let a child go with any adult that does not have
explicit permission to pick the child up from the program. An
elementary student may be dismissed with a sibling high school age and
above. They may not be dismissed to an older sibling in 5th grade or
below.
SECONDARY PROGRAM
Students will wait in the entryway of the school until 5:15 pm at which
time they are dismissed by grade level to class. Catechist should stand
at the doorway of his/her class to welcome the students to class and
to monitor students in the hallways.
Class ends at 7:30 pm. Students will be dismissed over the PA system,
one class at a time beginning with 6th grade. Students are not to be
dismissed from class before 7:30 pm. Catechist should monitor the
students in the hallways when they are dismissed.
STUDENTS LEAVING THE CLASSROOM
Once students are in the classroom on Sunday, they are expected to remain
there. If a student is ill and wishes to go home, they must come to the Faith
Formation office, and their parent will be contacted. They will remain in the
office until a parent arrives.
EARLY DISMISSAL POLICY
Students must have a written note from parent(s) requesting early
dismissal. The note should clearly state the requested time and reason for
the early dismissal. Students will present the note to the catechist who will
forward it to the Faith Formation office. Elementary students will be
dismissed to the Faith Formation office at the requested time. Parents are
required to come to the Religious Education office to pick up their child.
Secondary students and Confirmation candidates must report to the Faith
Formation office before leaving the building.
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PROGRESS REPORTS—Elementary program
In order to give the students formal feedback on their behavior in class and
their participation and cooperation in the catechetical process, each
catechist teaching grades 1 through 5 is to send home a progress report
two times a year; in early January and late April. The catechist is
responsible for writing out the report. These reports will be sent
home with the children, will be signed by the parent and returned to the
catechist. The comments the catechist writes on the progress report must
be specific, behavior-oriented and verifiable.
C AT EC HI ST INS TR UC TIO NS FO R C O MP L ETING
Progress Reports
Under TOPICS COVERED: Please list the information you have covered
this semester under First Period. Each grade level will be different.
However, all grade level should include topics such as Mission, Saints,
Advent, and any other special topics you have covered in class. Please be as
specific as possible. For example, Ten Commandments (Commandments 1
through 3).
Grade Code Explanations.;.
0 - Outstanding: Standing out from a group. This student arrives to
class on time and has his/her folder each week. This student
exhibits self-discipline at all times. Student exhibits a positive
attitude. Is cooperative and is always willing to participate in class.
This student is a leader and a positive example in the classroom.
VG - Very Good: Of a favorable character; praiseworthy. This student
arrives to class on time and is prepared for class with folder.
Student exhibits self-discipline most of the time. This student
exhibits a positive attitude, is cooperative and participates in
class.
S - Satisfactory: Adequate; average. This student usually arrives to
class on time and is usually prepared for class with folder. Student
tries to exhibit self discipline most of the time. Student has a
positive attitude and is usually cooperative. Participates in class
with some encouragement.
NI Needs improvement. This student is often not prepared for class.
Student frequently forgets to bring in folder. Student tries
to be self-disciplined but often needs reminding from the catechist
or aide. Student often has difficulty keeping on track and is easily
distracted. Attitude of student can be positive but often must be
addressed. The same is true for the student's participation.
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Grading
Please fill in grade codes under the current semester. Following are some
descriptions that may help you in grading:
 Attitude: What is the general attitude of the student? Apathetic,
hostile, uncooperative, enthusiastic or positive?
 Behavior: Does student exhibit self-discipline and self-control in
the classroom? Does student follow the rules and guidelines of
the class? Is the student respectful of the catechist and other
students?
 Cooperation: Does the student generally complete the activities
and assignments?
 Effort: Does the student try hard in class, even if they may be
having difficulty reciting prayers or participating in class
discussions? Does the student exhibit a genuine interest in class?
 Knowledge of class material: To the best of your knowledge,
does the student understand the material being presented in
class?
 Participation: Is the student a vital part of the class; offering
their thoughts and answering questions?
Under Catechist's Comments:
Please take a minute to complete this section and be sure to sign the
evaluation. Try to make all of your comments positive about the student. If
you are having a serious problem with a student, and have discussed this
with the parent, please indicate how the student is progressing in this area. If
you are having a serious problem with a student and have not discussed
it with the parent, the student evaluation should not be the first indication to
a parent that there is a problem
Sign and return by:
Evaluations will be distributed to the students at the end of class. The
evaluations are due back to you the following Sunday. Please take a few
minutes to check for parental comments and a parent signature.
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SUPERVISION
Catechists are responsible for the supervision and safety of the children
in their care. Catechists must be present at all times when class is in
session. Only in the case of an emergency can a catechist leave his/her
students alone in the classroom. The catechist aide can accompany
students requiring supervision in the restrooms. Secondary students are
to be dismissed from the classroom to use the restrooms one student at
a time. You may utilize the help of the Hall Monitor if you need assistance.
CLASSROOMS
Catechists and students are expected to respect the classrooms and
everything in them. Catechists are not to use the teacher’s desk or any of
his/her supplies/ resources in the classroom. The Faith Formation Program
will provide all supplies and resources needed. If any changes are made in
the classroom (desks moved, etc.) the catechist is to return the classroom
to the way it was when he/she arrived. Catechists are responsible to close
windows, erase blackboards, empty waste basket, turn off lights and if
necessary, vacuum the classroom. Catechists are responsible to monitor
the students in the classroom. Students are not to disturb any property
belonging to the school children or any other items in the classroom.
Catechists must report any damage or accidents that take place in the
classroom to the Faith Formation Director.
FOR YOUR EYES ONLY
Catechists will receive a "For Your Eyes Only" memo detailing important
information about their students. Keep this information with you in class
at all times. It will include medical information, photo release nonconsent, and non-custodial parent information.
PEANUT PRODUCTS
Because of the tremendous number of peanut allergies among young people,
snacks containing peanut products are not permitted in our program.
PHOTOS
Please notify the Faith Formation Director before taking photos of your
students. All photos require that a Photo Release form be signed by the
student’s parent.
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DISCIPLINE
BEHAVIOR CODE OF CONDUCT FOR STUDENTS
The goal of the Our Lady of Peace Faith Formation Behavior Policy
is to encourage students to make appropriate choices regarding their
actions. In order to achieve this goal and to provid e a safe and
well ordered program in which students can learn to follow Jesus'
call to love, a well defined set of behavioral limits, consequences and
procedures must be established and understood by everyone invol ved
with the Faith Formation Program.
BEHAVIORAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS:
1. Respect is to be shown for all students and catechists as
well as other adults in leadership roles.
2. Students are not to touch, write on, or damage in any way the
contents of desks and cubbies or any other items in the room.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Students are expected to display Christian values in the way
they dress, speak and behave.
Students are expected to be present only in the areas of the
building for which they have permission at a specific time.
Students are expected to act in a safe manner in and
around the school building.
The use of all electronic devices during the hours of religious
education is prohibited. These devices will be taken and given to
the Faith Formation Director immediately.
Use or possession of illegal drugs, alcohol, or tobacco of
any kind is strictly prohibited. These items will be seized
and parents notified immediately. Students will be
immediately removed from the environment.
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DISCIPLINE POLICY
The primary objective of a behavior policy is the reinforcement of positive
behavior. Students must accept and acknowledge that they have a choice
between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. When they choose to
exceed the defined limits they must accept the disciplinary consequences of
that choice.
Parents have the responsibility to be aware of the program's Behavior
Code of Conduct for Students and to work with the program in reinforcing
appropriate behavior. Communication between the Faith Formation office
and the home must be open and supportive in both directions. Students
have the responsibility to be familiar with the limits and consequences
defined in the code and to behave in a positive manner.
Any form of abusive treatment (either verbal or physical) by either a catechist
or student is strictly forbidden. Catechists must never abuse a child verbally or
touch a child in a way that could be construed as punitive. Students who
verbally or physically abuse either a catechist or a student will be immediately
suspended from the program for the remainder of the year. The parents
will then assume the responsibility for the child’s religious education.
Both forms of abuse should be reported to the Faith Formation Director.
CONSEQUENCES
1. Students whose behavior becomes a continual problem in the
classroom will be sent out of class to the office of the Faith Formation
Director. Students who exhibit disrespectful or disruptive behavior
will be given a written warning by the Faith Formation Director.
This written warning will be signed by the student, and the Faith
Formation Director. The written warning report will be kept on file in
the Faith Formation office. Anytime a student is sent from class and
given a written warning their parent(s) will be contacted either by
phone, in person, or in writing.
2. When the student receives a second written warning from the Faith
Formation Director, the student will be sent to the Faith Formation
office and the parent(s) will be contacted immediately. The student will
be sent home.
3. In order to return to the classroom, the student and parent(s) will
meet with the Faith Formation Director and catechist to resolve the
issues. A possible solution may include having the parent(s) sit in on
the class for a few weeks to observe their child.
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4. If the situation cannot be resolved, the parent(s) will a ssume
the responsibility for religious education at home. Accountability will
be made to the Faith Formation Director through monthly
conferences.
5. The student will be admitted into the program in the next calendar
year with no prejudice.
6. The Faith Formation Director or pastor retains the right to make
exceptions to the disciplinary procedures.
WEAPONS POLICY
In order to ensure a safe and Christian environment, it is forbidden
for anyone to possess a weapon or any object/material/substance that
could be used as a weapon or confused with a real weapon by any
reasonable person (toy guns, etc) in the building, or within the
geographic boundaries of Our Lady of Peace Church, or in any
location used by the parish to conduct any catechetical activity, or in
any conveyance providing transportation to or from any activity
related to the Faith Formation program.
Weapons or potential weapons will be confiscated by the Faith
Formation Director when this action does not place her in danger. If
the student has used a we apon against another person or will not
surrender the weapon or offending object/material/substance
immediately and willingly, the local police will be called first, followed
by notification of the parent(s). This is a zero tolerance policy.
Any student who violates this policy will be subject to immediate
parish disciplinary action over and above any civil/criminal action brought
by inured parties.
The student will be removed from the Religious Education class and
an alternative method of Religious Educa tion will be negotiated
with the parent( s) for the remainder of the year. Judgments
about re-admittance to the program for the following year will be
made on a case by case basis and this decision is at the sole
discretion of the pastor.
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If the incident involves an exchange of bodily fluids (for example,
as in a wound which breaks the skin), the student(s) will be asked
to submit to medical tests for transmittable diseases such as HIV
and Hepatitis B as recommended by a doctor. These tests will be
at the parent(s’) expense. In the name of being a community of
Christians motivated by care and respect, this policy asks that the
results of these tests, which are governed by guidelines of strict
confidentiality, be openly shared with the respective parties on a need
to know basis.
THREATS OF VIOLENT BEHAVIOR
Students will always be encouraged to manage their conflict in a positive,
non-aggressive manner. Behavior such as cursing, pushing or fighting
will not be tolerated.
In cases which are deemed by the catechist or Faith Formation Director to
be "minor," (meaning: no reason to believe the situation would lead to
physical harm,) the students will be separated and encouraged to work out
their differences after a "cool-down" period.
If the catechist regards the altercation as "serious," (meaning:
reasonable expectation that the conflict will lead to physical harm,) the
students will be immediately separated, the Faith Formation Director will
be notified, and the parent(s) of the students will be called. The Faith
Formation Director must determine that the situation is resolved
before the students will be readmitted to the program.
Students are expected to report to their catechist or Faith Formation
Director any threat made by a student which mentions killing of any
person. Such threats will be immediately reported to the police for
investigation. The student making such threats will be suspended
from the program until such time as the police investigation is
completed and the appropriate authorities are satisfied that there is no
real threat of harm. In such cases, judgments about re admittance to the program will be made on a case by case basis and this
decision is at the sole discretion of the pastor.
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CATECHIST CERTIFICATION
In order to carry out this important ministry, training and resources are
essential. In his first encyclical letter, Catechaesi Tradendae, Pope John Paul II
states:
As the twentieth century draws to a close, the Church is bidden by
God and by events...to renew her trust in catechetical activity as a prime
aspect of her mission. She is bidden to offer catechesis her best
resources in people and energy...in order to organize it better and to train
qualified personnel. This is no mere human calculation; it is an attitude of
faith. And an attitude of faith always has reference to the faithfulness of God,
who never fails to respond.
CT,tt15
In order to carry out this call for trained catechists, the diocese is now offering
Echoes of Faith Plus onsite at Our Lady of Peace Parish through the FFD and
RCL/Benziger. It is the responsibility for each catechist to commit him/ herself
to this program. Echoes of Faith Plus is a very flexible program designed
to work around your schedule. It is very helpful, interactive and userfriendly. It is the best thing you can do for yourself as a catechist.
SUSPENSION
The parish reserves the right to suspend and or not renew the volunteer
ministry position of any catechist who is not successfully performing their
duties or who is not fulfilling the responsibilities in this handbook. Any
catechist who is accused of a serious crime or who is discovered to have
committed a serious crime will be put on immediate leave until the matter
has been investigated and it is determined by the pastor that there is no
danger to the children or youth of the parish. Conduct inside or outside of
the program that is detrimental to the reputation of the program/parish or the
safety of others may be grounds for suspension or expulsion at the discretion
of the pastor.
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CURRICULUM
Textbooks and other materials used in the classroom are in conformity with
the teachings found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The elementary
(grades 1 through 5) and Jr. High (grades 6 - 8) curriculum has been mandated
by Bishop Lawrence Persico for use in all religious education programs in
the Diocese of Erie. The secondary (grade 9) and Confirmation (grades 10 & 11)
curriculum has been chosen by Bishop Persico and comes from the Center for
Ministry Development website.
Religious Education curriculum at Our Lady of Peace Parish:
Elementary Grades K-5- We Believe Published by Sadlier
Sacramental Preparation:
Reconciliation
Eucharist
Published by St Mary’s Press
Published by St Mary’s Press
Secondary (Gr 6 - 8) We Believe Published by Sadlier
Grades 9-10- Lessons from the Center for Ministry Development
The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth Published
by St. Mary’s Press
Grade 11-Confirmation- Lessons from the Center for Ministry
Development
Anointed in the Spirit Published by
St. Mary’s Press
The text material has been evaluated and found acceptable by the
Ad Hoc Committee on the Catechism of the National Conference of
Catholic Bishops.
Each catechist will have access to the Bible, the Catechism of the Catholic
Church, and will be given a copy of the appropriate pages from the Diocesan
Curriculum for their use in lesson planning. The textbooks must be used by the
catechist as the primary resource for planning and teaching. Catechists are not
to substitute other materials or disregard the text as a resource unless
permission has been given by the Faith Formation Director.
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SAFETY INFORMATION
INJURY
If one of the students is injured, the catechist is to inform the Faith
Formation Director immediately and apply first aid as appropriate. In
case of injury or sickness, care should be taken to avoid contact with
bodily fluids or blood. Vinyl gloves are provided to all catechists and a
first aid kit is available in the Faith Formation Office. Catechist must
report all injuries to the parent. If the injury is serious, the FFD will
contact the appropriate emergency services and the parent.
AIDS/INFECTIOUS DISEASES
Confidentiality for students who are HIV positive or have other
infectious diseases is protected by law. These students are not required
to inform the catechist or religious education leader if they have these
diseases.
If an incident, injury or illness of any kind involves an exchange of bodily
fluids (for example, as in a wound which breaks the skin), the student(s)
will be asked to submit to medical tests for transmittable diseases such as
HIV and Hepatitis B as recommended by a doctor. These tests will be at
the parent(s) expense. In the name of being a community of Christians
motivated by care and respect, this policy asks that the results of these
tests, which are governed by guidelines of strict confidentiality, be openly
shared with the respective parties on a need to know basis. Accidents
and injuries involving bodily fluids or blood must be reported to the Faith
Formation Director. Catechists are to be made aware of the health
concerns of their students (if this information is provided by the
parents) in their care to anticipate any health problems that may arise. All
catechists are to be informed of and understand the Blood-borne Pathogens
Policy of the Diocese of Erie.
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EVACUATION OF SCHOOL BUILDING
FIRE EMERGENCY
The catechists will instruct the students in this procedure the first week of
class, and review instructions periodically through the course of the year.
Fire drills for all grade levels will be conducted in the Fall and Spring of
each year.
In case of fire the catechist's main responsibility is the evacuation and
safety of the children, not extinguishing the fire. In case of fire, the
following steps are to be followed:
 If a fire is discovered, catechists should set off the fire alarm in
the building.
 Each class is to follow their designated evacuation route and
gather at their designated gathering point outside the building.
 Catechists are to lead their class in a calm and orderly manner.
 Catechists are to take attendance when they arrive at their gathering
area. (Take attendance sheet from class.)
 Students and catechists must remain at the gathering point until
dismissed by the Faith Formation Director.
OTHER EVACUATION EMERGENCIES
The above plan will be followed with any other situation that
the precipitates the evacuation of the school building.
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SEVERE WEATHER
In the case of impending severe weather, the Faith Formation Director will
advise the classes if there is a need to take cover. Catechists will direct the
class to go to the area designated for shelter during storms and take cover.
The following areas in the basement of the school are designated for the
following classes:
THE BASEMENT HALLWAY
Catechists are to lead their class in a calm and orderly manner. Catechists are
to take attendance when they arrive at in the hallway area. (Take attendance
sheet with you to area.)
Students must remain in basement area until dismissed by the FFD.
CANCELLATION OF CLASSES DUE TO WEATHER
In the event of sudden, severe weather an emergency cancellation of
religious education classes may be necessary. In this case, the following
direction is offered:
The Faith Formation Director with the consultation of the Pastor will make a
decision to cancel classes due to severe weather.
All radio and television stations will be contacted and an announcement will
be made via this media. The announcement will be added to our website and
made at Sunday liturgies.
This announcement will be made on Saturday afternoon or evening, if at
all possible.
Catechists may contact their students individually. You should always have your
list of phone numbers with you, in case a situation such as this arises.
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I can do all things through
Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
Thank you so much for all
that you do!
You are a blessing from God!
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Policy 251 / 331 Pg. 1
Catechist: ___________________Grade: ___Textbook:_______________________
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CATECHIST MATERIAL REQUEST
CATECHIST NAME: _____________________________________
GRADE: _______ WHEN NEEDED: __________
AMOUNT NEEDED: ___________
WHAT NEEDED: _________________________________________
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: __________________________________
________________________________________________________
CATECHIST MATERIAL REQUEST
CATECHIST NAME: _____________________________________
GRADE: _______ WHEN NEEDED: __________
AMOUNT NEEDED: ___________
WHAT NEEDED: _________________________________________
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: __________________________________
________________________________________________________
CATECHIST MATERIAL REQUEST
CATECHIST NAME: _____________________________________
GRADE: _______ WHEN NEEDED: __________
AMOUNT NEEDED: ___________
WHAT NEEDED: _________________________________________
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: __________________________________
________________________________________________________
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