Religious Education

The Church is responsible for continuing the mission of Jesus to proclaim and teach about the Kingdom of God.

St. Matthew's Religious Education Program is designed to teach young people an understanding of their Catholic faith and to encourage them and their families to participate actively in the parish community.

Our Religious Education Program for those children not attending Catholic School includes Kindergarten through 8th grade. Classes are held during the school year on Wednesday evening from 6:30pm - 7:30pm in the school.

Sacramental Preparation Policies for Religious Education Students

Confirmation - The sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated by the Bishop every spring. Students receiving this sacrament must have been baptized, must be in the 8th grade or above, and must also be in their second consecutive year of religious education/youth ministry. Students must also attend and complete sacramental preparation classes in addition to their regular religious education class. Twenty hours of service over a one year period prior to Confirmation is also encouraged. Older candidates wishing to be confirmed must first complete an adult religious education program.

First Reconciliation - The sacrament of First Reconciliation for children is celebrated yearly. Children receiving this sacrament must have been baptized, in their second consecutive year of religious education. Students must also attend and complete sacramental preparation classes in addition to their regular religious education class.

First Eucharist - The sacrament of first Eucharist for children is celebrated in the spring. Children receiving this sacrament must have been baptized, in the second grade or above, and in their second consecutive year of religious education. Students must also attend and complete sacramental preparation classes in addition to their regular religious education class.

Note: Parents of children/young people preparing for sacraments are required to attend Mass weekly, attend all parent meetings, participate in other activities that will be covered at scheduled parent meetings. Proof of religious education attendance will be required for students moving here from another parish.

Religious Education Teachers

Our Religious Education program could not happen without the help of adult volunteers to teach the classes. This dedication of time and talent is rewarding for the teachers as well as the students. An important duty of the Catholic Church is to educate our children in faith. Every year we are in need of volunteers who will commit to teaching this faith to our children. We also need people we can contact to substitute when a regular teacher is out.

If you would be willing to teach or substitute for a class, or if you would like more information about religious education class or sacramental preparation please contact the Office of Religious Education at 904-388-1207.

Visit our forms page if you would like a registration form for Religious Education and/or Sacramental Preparation.