St. Jude Children's Ministries Philosophy for Religious Education

The religious education program for Children's Ministry is intended to support parents in educating their children about the Catholic faith. Each grade level provides learning experiences based on the individual child's understanding of God and the church. Emphasis on church doctrine is included with each lesson, and prayer is an integral part of each class.

The Preschool program for four year olds uses the I Am Special curriculum published by Our Sunday Visitor. This curriculum approaches the teaching of the Catholic Faith in an active learning environment. Simple songs, stories, art activities, and prayers are used to teach children about the love of God.

The kindergarten through sixth grade uses the Blest Are We program from Silver, Burdett and Ginn. The content of each lesson emphasizes the teachings of the Church as it correlates to the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Scripture supports each lesson, and traditional prayers are practiced each week. There is a wonderful website www.blestarewe.com developed by the publisher for use by the parents and the children. It has great supplements to the lessons taught each week.