EXPLANATION OF THE YOUTH FAITH-FORMATION PROGRAMS 

Both the St Francis Xavier College Church traditional religious education program and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program share the same Mission Statement and Goals. 

Mission Statement 

The Religious Education Programs, as part of the mission of St. Francis Xavier College Church, seek to actively assist parents in the faith formation of their children. We strive to educate children to develop a personal relationship with Jesus that fosters their love of God and prepares them to respond in love as witnesses to Christ in the world.

Goals

  • Provide engaging interactive and age appropriate lessons

  • Increase participation in the sacramental life of the Church, particularly the Eucharist

  • Reach out in loving service to others

  • Develop a caring community among students, families and the parish

  • Aid in the faith development of parents 

Program Highlights 

Traditional RE Program:

  • Utilizes a variety of teaching methods and materials including activities, presentations, discussion and textbooks to learn the essential elements of our faith

  • Classes are determined by child’s grade level

  • Class meets from 9:15 – 10: 20 am

  • Classes range in size from 15 -25 children

  • Classes meet in the Parish Center and in Davis-Shaughnessy Hall on the SLU campus

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Program:

  • Curriculum is based on Scripture, Liturgy and the educational principles of Maria Montessori

  • Classes meet in the Parish Center in a prepared space called an Atrium

  • Uses a developmental and multi-age approach

  • Class period meets from 9:15 – 11 am, children are brought back into the 10:30 liturgy to meet their parents at the Presentation of the Gifts

  • Class size is generally 10-12 children