Religious formation begins with parents through their living example of the Catholic faith. It is the parents’ responsibility to:

1. Go to Mass every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation so children can learn that God comes first.

3. Go to confession so children can learn about forgiveness and reconciliation.

4. Fast on days of abstinence so children can learn to wait, listen, and depend on God.

5. Give time, talent, and treasure so children can learn responsibility and take  ownership of our Church by using their unique gifts and sharing their money.

The religious program of St. John School presents the central doctrines and morals of the Catholic faith and is supported and enhanced by community service and liturgical experiences. All students must participate in the required religion classes. Elements of our school program are described below:

a.   Christian Family Life Program (Health Education and Human Sexuality)

Education is the primary right and responsibility of the parents.  In the area of family life education, studies that are offered in the schools complement the teaching, which the student should receive at home.  The school informs and involves parents in this area of the school’s curriculum.  Additional information is available in the School Office.  Students, ages 9-12, are required to attend a Youth Sexuality Workshop.  

b.   Discipline with a Purpose

Discipline with a Purpose as taught at St. John, is premised on the Catholic Christian beliefs of the inherent goodness and value of every person.  Each student is a child of God and as His cherished creation, deserves our respect and consideration.

c.   Junior Joy – A Parish Ministry for Middle School Students

      All students in grades 6 – 8 are invited to participate in Junior Joy, a ministry for middle school students that focuses on middle school issues in the light of prayer and a loving community.  All middle school parents and families are encouraged to be part of the Life Teen Mass every Sunday at 5:00 p.m.

d.   Liturgy

Religion is taught in each grade and is reinforced by a participatory Friday Liturgy.  All classrooms take turns providing the lectors, altar servers, gift bearers and choir members throughout the year.  Preparing the theme is the responsibility of the teacher and the class whose turn it is to prepare the Liturgy. On Fridays the school day begins at 8:00 a.m. with Mass in the Church.  Students are required to wear the appropriate uniform for all Masses and to practice reverence for all liturgies by being on time.

e.   Mass on Holy Days of Obligation

The Eucharist is the center of our community.  Each family of the St. John School Community is expected to participate in Mass on Sundays, or Saturday Vigil Masses.  Students who do not attend Mass consistently with their families will not receive an “A” for excellence in Religion. 

f.    Retreats

All grades attend at least one yearly retreat with their class to build community and nurture a desire for Jesus Christ.   Please consult your calendar for your child’s retreat dates.

g.       Sacraments

All students in second grade will prepare for the sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharist.  Only students who have two full years of Catholic catechism may receive the sacrament of Eucharist in second grade.  Parents are required to attend a workshop to further their understanding of the Sacrament of the Eucharist before a child qualifies to receive the sacraments.