To the Parents of C.C.D. Students

As we begin this new year of religious education, please be assured that the staff at St. Catherine of Sweden parish and the catechists in our C.C.D. program are dedicated to helping your children grow in faith and be closer to God. As parents, you are the primary educators of your children and are their best teachers. Your children learn the most from the example you set when you pray together and actively participate in Mass and the sacraments as a family.

Every student is given a Faith First textbook on the first day of class. Please take time to familiarize yourself with this wonderful learning tool. Catholic faith concepts are explained in age appropriate language, lessons are reinforced with activities and scripture stories and the faith concepts are connected to life experiences in the church and family. Each chapter closes with a summary of the lesson and provides activities and suggestions for ways your family can "make a difference". And, be sure to go "online" with your children to visit the Faith First web site at www.FaithFirst.com.

Please read the program guidelines below. Attendance requirements, class dates and the sacramental preparation schedules are located in the links to the right of this letter. Please check the bulletin each week for any "C.C.D. News" and watch for information your children bring home after class.

Our Religious Education Program is carefully designed to assist you in the faith formation of your children. Please feel free to visit your child's classroom at any time and get to know his/her teacher. Our staff is looking forward to a rewarding year!