Religious Education

From the baptism of their child, when parents promise to raise their child in the Catholic faith, they begin Catholic education in their home. Parents, as primary educators of their children, also seek opportunities to deepen their own spirituality, as well as their child’s spirituality and understanding of the Catholic faith. Integral to a full understanding of the Catholic faith are weekly attendance at Mass, prayer within the home, and an active personal prayer life and relationship with God.

The Youth Faith Formation program at St. Philip's assists parents in supplementing the learning that occurs at home by providing weekly classroom sessions in faith education. Using parents and parishioners as volunteer catechist/teachers, Faith Formation endeavors to lead students to a closer relationship with Christ and Christ’s Church.
The program also seeks to include works of service and justice, group prayer experiences and the building of friendship and fellowship with peers and adult mentors.
Part of the faith education for St. Philip's and St. Anthony's students is the learning of certain basic Catholic prayers. There are prayers for each grade level that students should have memorized by the end of the school year. Catechists practice these prayers with their students however, parents should also work with their child at home to memorize them. 

Classes usually start in September and generally end at the beginning of May.  At this time they are the one hour after Sunday Mass. We have a registration event before the first class. Registration fees help cover our curriculum expenses.  The current fee is $20 per child for students whose families are members of St. Philip's, and $30 per child for families who are members of St. Anthony's or other parishes. 

How To Get Involved
There are several ways for parents, teens and parishioners to get involved.  We ask that EACH parent serve in one of the following ways:

Catechist or Team Catechist – A Catechist has charge of a group of  students for a year of faith formation. We encourage team-teaching, which gives the opportunity for more personal attention for the students. Training is provided before the year begins, and ongoing support is also provided. Benefits include knowing you are making a difference in the lives of the parish community’s youth by sharing your faith! Also, for parents who are catechists or team catechists for the full-year, your fees for all your children are waived!

Substitute catechist - Catechist need replacements when they can not teach.  This is a vital role to continue our children's learning.

Assist with projects - If you are willing to help with any extra projects if needed, please let us know.  This may include projects at Christmas or community service projects.

Contact Information
Jessica Peterson  701-899-4123 or [email protected]