Faith Formation

The faith formation of students sets St. Joseph School apart from other area school options.  We exist as a school because of our commitment to religious education. Our primary purpose is to promote the development of a responsible Christian way of life. The Diocesan Course of Study serves as the guideline for the religion curriculum. Our school day begins and ends with prayer.  Students attend Mass once a week as members of the all-school community or as primary, intermediate, or middle school section. Faith formation takes place as an integrated part of our school day as well as a formal instructional period of 30-45 minutes.

Students are encouraged to practice their faith by receiving the sacraments, attending school and Sunday liturgy, and participating in service activities.

Reconciliation and First Communion

Students are prepared for the sacrament of Reconciliation in the second grade.  In celebrating this sacrament of God’s forgiveness, students learn to reestablish their relationship with God and all people through reflection and contrition. By saying “I am sorry” and hearing “You are forgiven.”  Students are prepared for the sacrament of First Communion in the second grade.  First Communion takes place in early May.  Preparation for the sacrament includes a parent program.

Service

Students experience a sense of solidarity – that they are indeed their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers – through a variety of service and outreach activities.  These include:

• Raising money for schools of the Central City Ministry.
• Adopting families at holidays.
• Preparing food baskets for community outreach organizations.
• Collecting coats, hats, and mittens for community outreach programs.
• Making decorations for community and parish events.
• Visiting the elderly at area nursing homes.