3rd Grade
The third grade text is Finding God: Our Response to God’s Gifts, published by Loyola Press. Inspired by the life and work of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the Ignatian approach invites all who experience the program to recognize the presence of God in the sacraments and in communities of faith and to realize the presence of God in experiences of God’s creation and in others.
Grade 3 is a continuation of a young child’s faith formation experience after First Communion. Parents can elect to send their third grader to the building for religious instruction or may opt to home instruct. These choices are identified on the registration form.
4th Grade
Nine and ten year-olds are emerging into a new level of independence. They are often self-motivated and independent and enjoy being given responsibility although they still require guidance and direction to keep on track. Fourth graders will also experience times of self-doubt and timidity, requiring an encouraging and nurturing response from the adults in their lives.
Growth as Catholics
Being a member of a group or community is important to fourth graders. They enjoy volunteering and feel a sense of accomplishment after a deed is completed. Their increased knowledge of communal prayers makes it possible for them to participate more fully in liturgical celebrations.
Their religious growth includes:
- Heightened sense of right and wrong based on fairness
- Beginning to be able to understand and apply the message in a story
- Enjoys retelling and acting out stories from the Bible
- Strives to incorporate good works into daily living
- Enjoys taking part in ritual actions and liturgical celebrations
Classes for fourth graders are offered during the school year, during summer months (see web page entitled Summer Religious Education) or parents may choose to home instruct (see web page Home Instruction Religious Education).
5th Grade
Classes for fifth graders are offered during the school year, during the summer months (see web page entitled Summer Religious Education) or parents may choose to home instruct (see web page Home Instruction Religious Education).
The text used for fifth grade is Finding God: Our Response to God’s Gifts. This text, along with instruction, lead children to the blessings of a lifelong faith. The program is inspired by the life and work of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. Through this program children experience the presence of God in all things.
Grade 5 is a continuation of religious studies for children who plan to progress towards Confirmation.
