PRE-SCHOOL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

To teach children aged 3 years to kindergarten, the basics of our loving God by providing hands-on experiences in a classroom setting. Also, to provide prayer services, story days, and music days for the children to come together in celebration.

Currently approximately 100 students are enrolled in nine classes. Approximately eighteen (18) teachers, and eighteen (18) middle school or high school aides administer this program.

Religious Education classes for pre-school children meet on Sunday mornings from 9:45 to 11:00 a.m. Classes are held from October through May. Two Para liturgies are held each year, one during Advent, and one in April or May.

Our Parish School of Religion (PSR) exists to provide Religious Education classes in a formal learning situation, and offer opportunities for peer and community expressions of faith. Parents, by their example and guidance, are the primary religious educators of their children. The parish is committed to the religious education of its young people through our PSR programs. The first pre-school religious education classes were held at St. Matthew in September 1978.

Any parishioner from middle school aged through senior citizen may participate in the following ways.

Teachers: A commitment of 1-1/2 to 2 hours every Sunday morning from September to May, excluding Holidays (approximately 30 weeks per year.) Additional time is needed to prepare lessons and plan for classes.

Aides: A commitment of 1-1/2 to 2 hours every Sunday morning from September to May, excluding Holidays (approximately 30 weeks per year.)

Story, Music and Prayer Service Leaders: Once every 4 to 6 weeks from October to April on Sunday from 9:45 to 11:00 a.m.

Others: Occasional Sunday morning help in various capacities. For example: as a substitute teacher or assisting with serving/set-up/clean-up at the semi-annual paraliturgies. No dues are required for this ministry.