Whole Family Catechesis Program

The Saint Jerome Parish faith community seeks to educate its young members within the context of the family.  We invite parents to join us for Sunday Mass with their children so that together they may enter into relationship with Christ. Our program is centered on Eucharist and explores five Eucharistic themes.

Students in Grades 1-8 are taught by professional teachers trained to present engaging lessons.  The program is held in Saint Paula Hall which allows room for entire families to join in the formation.

Five Eucharistic themes guide the curriculum at each grade level.

"We Gather as Believers"

In this theme. learners examine what it means to believe in the creed, in Our Father, and in the church that we enter though sacraments.

"We Ask God's Forgiveness"

In this theme, learners appreciate who Jesus is, understand what it means to be forgiven and how to forgive others while living a moral life.  This theme offers an answer to the question "Is it good to be Catholic?"

"We Listen and Live God's Word"

In the third theme, learners explore the Word of God in scripture.  At each level, we address the Old and New Testament stories that shape our Judeo-Christian heritage.  All learners work with the Bible and learn how to pray with scripture. 

"We Celebrate the Gift of the Eucharist"

We are Eucharistic people! In the fourth theme, learners begin to understand where Holy Mass is leading us.  The  Liturgy of the Word brings us closer to the "source and summit" of our faith, the Eucharist.  We study Holy Week as the starting point for understanding the Eucharist. 

"We Go in Peace - Call to Discipleship"

In the final theme, learners are called to leave the celebration of Holy Mass and our formative programs and go and do Christ's work.  We reflect on the lives of the many witnesses we have on how to live a life of virtue, namely Mary and the saints.  We pray the Rosary both through scripture and the Rosary traditions.  We take time to focus on Catholic social justice issues through the corporal and spiritual works of mercy especially examining topics such as abortion, sexuality, poverty and just war.