Catechism Program
First Eucharist and First Reconciliation Sacrament Preparation Program
I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world. (John 6:51)
Jesus instituted the sacrament of Eucharist at the Last Supper through the sacrifice of his Precious Body and Blood. It is the gift we celebrate at each and every Mass through the breaking of the bread. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the Eucharist is the "source and summit" of Christian life. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1324)
Program Director - Rosana Valdez & Rocio Berber
General Information
Catechesis for each sacrament is intended for all members of the Christian community, takes place within the community, and involves the whole community of faith... and [it] involves the parents in the preparation of their children for the sacraments. (National Directory for Catechesis.)
Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist is a two-year process. For children Grade 2nd through Grade 7th who have been baptized.
St. Joseph Church’s Catechesis & Evangelization for Children is dedicated to reverence, respect, responsibility, and service as a response to faith and love in Jesus Christ by offering a program dedicated to receiving the sacraments and catechesis in accordance with Roman Catholic Doctrine and the policies of the Diocese of Fresno.
Structure
Our program consists of a two-year curriculum which is offered in English and Spanish along with lesson plans and worksheets that accompany the primary text resource “Be My Disciples” from RCL Benziger. We also offer annual retreats, special Children’s Mass, and various activities to enrich the learning experience for the children of our parish in the Catholic Faith.
Time Frame
Catechism is offered on Tuesdays from 6 pm to 7 pm at the St. Joseph Catholic School grounds. Our Catechism school year usually runs from late August to late April.