The School of Religion assists parents in teaching the Catholic faith and provides a basis for faith formation. The School of Religion, in cooperation with St. Matthew Catholic School is responsible for working with parents and guardians to ensure that children of St. Matthew Parish are properly prepared to receive these very important sacraments.
Sacramental Preparation
Preparation for the sacraments is a two-year process, so for a student to receive Reconciliation and First Eucharist, they must attend either Catholic school or religious education classes for 1st and 2nd grade. For Confirmation, they must attend the Confirmation Year 1 and Confirmation Year 2 classes.
Sacramental preparation is a family endeavor. It is the role of the parents to be the principal and first educators of their children. Parents are required to attend preparatory sessions that invite them to look at the sacraments from an adult perspective, as well as assist them in helping to prepare their children for the reception of the sacraments. Parents must provide documentation of sacraments already received, if not already on file with the parish office.
Families and their students who are preparing for the sacraments are required to complete certain requirements during their two-year preparation. This may include, but not limited to retreats, additional sacramental and/or formation classes, service projects and adoration hours.
Students and their families are expected to regularly attend Mass on weekends and on Holy Day of Obligations.
Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIC)
The Church considers the age of seven to be the age of reason. Children who have reached the age of reason who have not received one or more of the sacraments of initiation during the traditional time are expected to follow the Order of Christian Initiation process for children (OCIC).
OCIC is an adapted sacramental preparation for children 7-16 years of age, who have not been baptized or received their sacraments during the traditional times. Classes are designed to educate children in the Catholic faith and prepare them for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
Classes are held once a week during the school year beginning in September. Students who have not had their first year of religious education in preparation for the sacraments will be required to complete one year of religious education classes before enrolling in OCIC class. Reception of the sacraments will be celebrated at the end of the second year of preparation.
Parents of students preparing for the sacraments through the OCIC process are encouraged to attend preparation classes with their child. Parents may also be required to attend preparatory sessions that invite them to look at the sacraments from an adult perspective, as well as assist them in helping to prepare their children for the reception of the sacraments.
Baptism for Older Children
Parents with children 7 years or older, seeking baptism, are asked to contact the School of Religion to discuss and establish a plan for preparation.
