Family Handbook
2011/2012
Sacred Heart &
Queen of Peace
Religious Education
DIRECTORY ABSENCES CALL 234-8394
Religious Education Office Staff
Religious Education E-mail DBQ209re1@arch.pvt.k12.ia.us
Cathy Mills, CRE 234-6593 ext 208
610-0956 cell
Pam Johnston, DRE S.H. 234-8394
Bev Byford, DRE Q.O.P. 226-3655
Catechetical Staff
Grade 1
Dee Wilberding 233-0966
Grade 2
Patty McClain 235-9332
Elaina Garcia 805-844-9690
Grade 3
Annette Mayer 296-1477
Grade 4
Maria Pfiffner 234-4395
Grade 5
Barb Huch 296-9180
Grade 6
Wilma Conrads 266-6797
Grade 7
Deanna Walvatne 233-7026
Grade 8
Glenda Schmitz 232-6717
Waterloo Catholic Faith Formation Commission
Sacred Heart Reps
Theresa McRae 239-8362 Anne Sergeant 235-1311
Queen of Peace Reps
Carlos Ledesma 234-2583 Sally Kelly 232-8782
Sacred Heart Fr. Louis Jaeger, 234-4994
Queen of Peace Fr. Jose Luis Comparan 232-1326
WELCOME!
Dear Families,
On behalf of our Pastors, Fr. Louis Jaeger and Fr. Jose Luis Comparan, the Education Committee, the parish staffs and catechists, I want to welcome you and your child(ren) to Continuing Christian Development (CCD) classes.
This Family/Parent Handbook is designed to help you understand the religious education program more fully. The Handbook includes many pieces of information regarding our program: guidelines, expectations, scheduling, and curriculum.
We believe the faith formation of children is a cooperative effort of parents, catechists, and the parish community. Children need the guidance of catechists and
the personal example of parents in order to fully understand and personally appreciate how much God loves them.
The nature of this cooperative effort is expressed most clearly in the Religious Education Covenant found in this booklet. The Covenant is an important statement of our shared responsibility and our mutual commitment. I urge you to read it carefully.
Because we envision religious education as a partnership between parents and parish, your presence, support, and participation are always welcome!
Cathy Mills Coordinator of Religious Education
Waterloo Catholic Faith Formation Catechetical Plan
Vision Statement
This is our vision for religious formation in the Waterloo parishes by the year 2013:
Inspired by the Spirit of Vatican II we will become one dynamic Catholic community that empowers enthusiastic conversion to the Good News of Jesus Christ.
We will provide effective, interactive, relational faith formation that respects and responds to the diversity of life experiences and equips people to live the Gospel, thus advancing the Kingdom of God.
Guided by the Spirit of Justice, we will ensure the equitable distribution of our resources so we continually evolve as engaged life-long learners.
Adopted by the Metro Catechetical Planning Committee
December, 2008.
What We Believe
We believe that effective faith formation:
1. Actively engages as life-long learners the minds and hearts of all ages
and abilities.
2. Is a shared mission of the Waterloo Catholic Community in welcoming
and forming people into the Body of Christ.
3. Celebrates the uniqueness of the spiritual and sacramental life of the
Church, especially through the Eucharist.
4. Is interactive, relational and relevant to life experiences.
5. Is dynamic when rooted in the spirit, vision and imagination of Vatican II.
6. Invites participation, instills hope and ongoing conversion to live as
disciples of Jesus Christ.
7. Empowers Catholics to echo the "Good News" in their homes,
workplaces, neighborhoods and global communities.
8. Is inclusive of race, gender, age, ethnicity, ability, stage of faith
development, degree of affiliation/participation, marital status, sexual
orientation and theological viewpoint.
9. Is faithful to the teachings and traditions of the Church.
10. Leads people to a life of service and acts of justice.
11. Invites us to be innovative and creative in our attempts to welcome
and excite all to live our faith more fully.
Adopted by the Metro Catechetical Planning Committee December, 2008.
QUEEN OF PEACE/SACRED HEART
EDUCATIONAL COVENANT
Catholic formation which encourages lifelong faith development is best achieved when there is interdependence, harmony, and cooperation among all those responsible for catechesis. The work of educating, therefore, must be shared together by family, teachers, and faith communities that foster the integration of cultural, civic, and religious life.
(From the "Declaration on Christian Education" of Vatican Council II)
Parish Staff, Waterloo Catholic Faith Formation Commission, and Catechist Commitment
We, the Queen of Peace/Sacred Heart CCD community, solemnly commit ourselves to the following:
1) To provide regular prayer and worship opportunities for students and their families.
2) To offer guidance and support in preparing your children for Sacraments according to his/her need and age level.
3) To foster a Catholic identity in each student through guided religious instruction, worship experiences, and service activities
4) To extend a fee reduction, when possible, to families in financial need who could not otherwise send their child to religious education classes.
Parent Commitment
We, the parent(s) or guardian(s), solemnly commit ourselves to the following:
1) To worship regularly with the parish community.
2) To be responsible for my child's regular attendance at Sunday Eucharist and for the Sacrament of Penance, when appropriate.
3) To strive to live out Christian values in our homes.
4) To accept my role as primary educator of my child by:
a. Participating in sacramental preparation programs.
b. Participating in the progress reporting process and attending Religious Education celebrations and activities.
c. Communicating special needs or circumstances which might affect my child's learning.
d. Insuring regular attendance for Wednesday evening classes.
5) To financially support my parish through the use of weekly offering envelopes and to make arrangements for paying all program fees.
Student Commitment
We, the students, solemnly commit ourselves to the following:
1) To show respect for other persons and parish property at all times.
2) To participate with a positive attitude and cooperative manner in all CCD classes, prayer services, and other special activities.
Program Guidelines & Procedures
1. Class begins at 6:30. We will have supervision beginning at 6:20. Please do not arrive earlier than this. If you are late in arriving or need to pick up early, please call so that you can be met at the Fifth Street doors.
2. Parents are always welcome to visit CCD classes. We ask only that you contact the CRE, or catechist in advance of your visit. CCD students may bring guests with them to class on occasion. Please contact the teacher in advance. Guests are expected to behave appropriately and must follow the same classroom rules as enrolled students.
3. Please follow your school’s guidelines for attire. For safety reasons Heelys are not allowed. No Cell phones allowed. Gum is not allowed.
4. Respect for another's property and for school and parish property in general is expected in every area of the school. Students may not rummage through desks, closets, or files in any classroom.
5. If a student will be absent due to illness or family emergency, please call the office at 234-8394 to inform us of the student's absence. We will be checking on any unreported absences for safety reasons.
6. Prayer services, Masses, or Penance Services are scheduled periodically. Students serve as readers and in other ministries. Parents are encouraged to come. Students may be dismissed from the church on these evenings.
7. Articles lost while attending Religious Education classes can be found by contacting the Religious Education Office.
8. If a field trip is planned, parents are required to complete the Achdiocesion Field Trip Form. This form is required for your child to participate. Parents are often asked to help provide needed assistance with transportation and/or supervision of students.
9. Students are expected to participate in a cooperative and respectful manner in all activities. In the event of a problem, we will follow the procedures outlined in the Discipline policy included in this Handbook.
1. If a student becomes ill, parents will be called. It is IMPORTANT that the family information forms list an emergency contact person and phone number.
11. Please inform the CRE of any special learning needs; physical or behavioral challenges. Please note learning or behavioral needs on the registration form.
Arrival Procedure
Students may be dropped off at the 5th Street entrance, no earlier than 6:20 p.m.
They are to enter the building. Loitering and playing outside before class are not permitted. Supervision is provided inside the building. Students will remain in the hallways until the bell rings for class. If your child is arriving after 6:35 you will need to call the office to arrange for staff to meet you at the door.
We will be calling your home if children are absent and
we have not heard from you.
Call 234-8394 to report an absence.
Dismissal Procedure
Due to safety concerns the following dismissal procedure is in effect. Please use the church parking lot across Randolph Street. Please enter the building at the 5th Street entrance. All students will gather in the gym for prayer at 7:35. At 7:45 p.m. students will be dismissed from the gym. The children will remain with the Catechists in the gym until you pick them up. The 5th Street door and the stage gym door may be used to exit the building.
Parents/Guardians must pick up the students INSIDE the building. There will NOT be staff supervision outside the building. Please watch carefully for children walking among parked vehicles and crossing the street. Please be punctual in picking up your child(ren).
Inclement Weather Procedure
In the event of inclement weather, CCD classes may be canceled. To obtain current information regarding class cancellations, listen to the local radio stations, watch KWWL TV announcements. Listen for: "All Catholic Religious Education classes are canceled." Queen of Peace/Sacred Heart will not be listed separately. A general rule is: When area schools have early dismissal on Wednesdays due to weather, religious education classes are automatically canceled.
Program Policies
Registration Policy
It is hoped that all CCD families be registered members of Queen of Peace or Sacred Heart Parish. This may be done at the rectory. If registered in another local parish, tuition rates will be higher. The CCD fee covers only a small portion of the total costs for this program, while the parish subsidizes all remaining costs. It is therefore assumed that parents are also financially supporting the parish.
Attendance Policy
Students enrolled in the Queen of Peace/Sacred Heart Religious Education
program are expected to attend all classes and other scheduled events
during the year. As we move toward a Metro Catholic system there will be opportunities offered that otherwise were not possible. Attendance at classes located in a different building is still condsidered madatory.
If a student will be absent due to illness or family emergency, please call the office at 234-8394 to inform us of the student's absence. We will be checking on any unreported absences for safety reasons.
Public School Policy
The Waterloo Community School District has an official policy (#JQEA)
which restricts "co-curricular activities" on Wednesday evenings. School
activities, including athletic practices, should end by 4:15p.m.; teachers are
requested to limit homework assignments on Wednesday evenings.
* If school responsibilities create conflicts for your child on Wednesday
evenings, you should visit with your child's daytime teacher(s), coach,
or principal.
Sacramental Preparation Policy
Students enrolled in CCD classes normally prepare for the Sacrament of
Reconciliation during the first semester of second grade and for First
Communion during the second semester that same year.
Information sessions for parents are held before preparation begins.
We expect parents to attend these sessions to assist them in preparing
their children for the sacraments in a home-based setting.
Students beyond second grade are offered special preparation for the
Sacraments Initiation (and Reconciliation). This is done in collaboration with other metro parishes during the second semester.
Discipline Policy
Ordinarily discipline problems will be handled by the regular classroom catechist. For major or recurring discipline problems, a catechist may dismiss a student from the classroom in accord with the following procedure:
1. The student must talk with the CRE before being allowed to return to the class. The CRE will fill out a First Offense Discipline Slip stating the reason for the student being sent to the CRE. The student is then responsible to give the slip to his/her parent(s).
2. In the event a student is sent to the CRE for a second offense, the parent will be notified by phone and will receive, via the mail, a Second Offense Discipline Slip stating the reason for the disciplinary action.
3. A third offense by the same student will mean dismissal from classes OR consequences mutually agreed upon by CRE, Catechist, and Parents. Parent(s) will be contacted immediately.
Financial Support Policy
Student tuition covers only a small percentage of the actual costs of maintaining the religious ed program, but we are dependent on tuition to supplement the financial support provided by our parish subsidy. Parents are expected to support the parish with their weekly budget envelope and to pay the annual CCD tuition.
We understand that families are not always able to provide this level of financial support. Parents should never withhold students from CCD classes or sacramental preparation because they are unable to pay the tuition or book fees.
** If you are unable to provide regular financial support to the parish,
please contact the Pastor or parish office.
** If you are unable to pay the tuition or book fees, please contact the CRE.
Progress Reporting Policy
Parents may expect student progress reports twice each year: once in late fall and again in early spring. Please feel free to contact your child's teacher or the CRE at any time with your questions/concerns about the progress of your child.
How to Express Your Concerns or Complaints
We encourage parents to share concerns, questions, and complaints about the religious education program, staff, or curriculum. The following is the archdiocesan guide for good communication.
1) Concerns about what happens in the classroom:
First discuss your concerns with the catechist at a time and place which is convenient for both the parent and catechist. If your concern is not adequately addressed by meeting with the catechist, contact either the CRE.
2) Concerns about staff or policies:
Discuss your concerns with the Coordinator of Religious Education (CRE). If your concern is not adequately addressed please contact the DRE. If at this time you would still have a concern, contact a member of theWaterloo Catholic faith Formation Commission. Their names and phone numbers are listed on the Directory page in this booklet.
3) Formal complaints about instructional materials:
These complaints must be made in writing, according to the procedure
outlined by the Archdiocesan Board of Education in policy #1312. This
policy is available in the Religious Education Office.
4) Formal complaints against a catechist or administrator:
Such complaints must be made according to the procedure outlined by the Archdiocesan Board of Education in policy #4119.4h or #4119.4i, which are available in the Religious Education Office or through the
Pastor.
Help for Victims of Sexual Abuse
The Archdiocese of Dubuque has established a program of pastoral assistance to people who believe they or those in their care have been sexually abused by clergy or other Church personnel. This assistance will include help in informing civil and Church authorities. Victim Assistance Coordinators are trained to facilitate access to appropriate professional mental health services, social service agencies, support groups and/or individuals who can provide spiritual care. Any individual desiring help from this program is invited to call toll free 800-803-6758 or 866-319-4636 to report an allegation or receive assistance. This program is part of the new "Policy for the Protection of Minors".
Prayer, Beliefs and Practices
The following Prayers, Beliefs and Practices are found in the Compendium - Catechism of the Catholic Church ©2006 and the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults ©2006. Prayers are organized from the most foundational to more complex; Belief and Practices are alphabetized. The Prayers, Beliefs and Practices have been subdivided into the grades in which it is recommended that they are to be taught. While there is no definitive statement which assigns the Prayers, Beliefs and Practices to the various grade levels, the Prayers, Beliefs and Practices coincide with suggestions and recommendations as presented in “By Their Fruits You Shall Know Them. . .” (NCEA) and Sowing the Seeds of Faith (NCCL) which reflect developmentally-appropriate levels.
This entire listing is also consistent with the following publications of the Archdiocese of Dubuque: the Catholic school religion standards/grade level expectations developed by the Office of Catholic Schools and the Basic Elements of Catholic Faith from the Office of Catechetical Services.
While other prayers of cultural/liturgical significance may be recommended and used as designated by the local site, students are expected to have an understanding of the Prayers, Beliefs and Practices contained herein, and they will be part of prayer in the school and religious education programs.
The sections are available in both English and Spanish and include:
Prayers
Beliefs and Practices
Prayers, Beliefs and Practices by Grade Levels
Prayers
Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary
Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed are thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning is now, and ever shall be world without end. Amen. (Traditional wording)
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. (Found in the Liturgy of the Hours)
Angel of God
Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.
Grace Before a Meal
Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts, which we are about to receive from thy bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Grace After a Meal
We give thee thanks, for all thy benefits, Almighty God, who live and reign for ever. Amen.
Morning Prayer (younger children)
God, my Father, I give you today all that I think and do and say. I’ll work and study, have fun and pray. Jesus be with me all through the day. Amen.
Morning Offering
O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, works, joys and sufferings of this day for all the intentions of your Sacred Heart, in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world, for the salvation of souls, the reparation for sins, the reunion of all Christians, and in particular for the intentions of the Holy Father this month. Amen.
Act of Contrition
My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In his name, my God, have mercy. Amen. (Alternate version from the Rite of Penance)
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because of thy just punishments, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin. Amen. (Traditional version)
Jesus Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me, a sinner.
Confiteor (before November 26)
I confess to almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters that I have sinned through my own fault, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and what I have failed to do. And I ask Blessed Mary, ever Virgin, all the angels and saints, and you my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God. May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins and bring us to life everlasting. Amen.
Confiteor (after November 26)
I confess to almighty God
and to you, my brothers and sisters,
that I have greatly sinned,
in my thoughts and in my words,
in what I have done
and in what I have failed to do,
through my fault, through my fault,
through my most grievous fault; therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin,
all the Angels and Saints,
and you, my brothers and sisters,
to pray for me to the Lord our God.
Apostles’ Creed (before November 26)
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and life everlasting. Amen.
Apostles Creed (after November 26)
I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried; he descended into hell; on the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty; from there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
Nicene Creed (before November 26)
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, one in Being with the Father. Through Him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation He came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit He was born of the Virgin Mary, and became Man.
For our sake He was crucified under Pontius Pilate; He suffered, died, and was buried. On the third day He rose again in fulfillment of the Scriptures; He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and His Kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord the Giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son He is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Nicene Creed (after November 26)
I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
The Rosary
How to Pray the Rosary:
Make the Sign of the Cross.
Holding the Crucifix, say the Apostles’ Creed.
On the first bead, say an Our Father.
Say three Hail Marys on each of the next three beads. Say the Glory Be.
Go to the main part of the rosary. For each of the five decades, announce the Mystery, then say the Our Father. While fingering each of the ten beads of the decade, say ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Mystery. Then say a Glory Be.
Announce the second Mystery and continue in the same way until each of the five Mysteries of the selected group or decades is said.
After saying the five decades, say the Hail, Holy Queen.
Mysteries of the Rosary
Joyful Mysteries (recited Monday and Saturday)
The Annunciation
The Visitation
The Nativity (birth of Jesus)
The Presentation
The Finding in the Temple
Mysteries of Light or Luminous (recited Thursday)
The Baptism of Jesus
The Wedding Feast of Cana
The Proclamation of the Kingdom, with the call to Conversion
The Transfiguration
The Institution of the Eucharist
Sorrowful Mysteries (recited Tuesday and Friday)
The Agony in the Garden
The Scourging at the Pillar
The Crowning with Thorns
The Carrying of the Cross
The Crucifixion
Glorious Mysteries (recited Wednesday and Sunday)
The Resurrection
The Ascension
The Descent of the Holy Spirit
The Assumption
The Crowning of Mary Queen of Heaven and Earth
Hail, Holy Queen
Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope. To you do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To you do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us, and after this exile show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary. Pray for us O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ our Lord.
Act of Faith
O my God, I firmly believe that you are one God in three divine Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I believe that your divine Son became man and died for our sins and that he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe these and all the truths which the Holy Catholic Church teaches because you have revealed them who are eternal truth and wisdom, who can neither deceive nor be deceived. In this faith I intend to live and die. Amen.
Act of Hope
O Lord God, I hope by your grace for the pardon of all my sins and after life here to gain eternal happiness because you have promised it who are infinitely powerful, faithful, kind, and merciful. In this hope I intend to live and die. Amen.
Act of Love
O Lord God, I love you above all things and I love my neighbor for your sake because you are the highest, infinite and perfect good, worthy of all my love. In this love I intend to live and die. Amen.
Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known, that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Angelus
V. The angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.
R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit. Hail Mary
V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord.
R. Be it done to me according to thy word. Hail, Mary
V. And the Word was made flesh,
R. And dwelt among us. Hail, Mary
V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray: Pour forth, we beseech thee, O Lord, thy grace into our hearts; that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ, thy Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may by his Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of his Resurrection. Through the same Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Mary’s Prayer (Magnificat)
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Come, Holy Spirit (Prayer to the Holy Spirit)
V. Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
R. And kindle in them the fire of your love.
V. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
R. And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray: O God, by the light of the Holy Spirit you have taught the hearts of your faithful. In the same Spirit, help us to know what is truly right and always to rejoice in your consolation. We ask this through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Prayer of St. Francis/Prayer for Peace
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
Grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul. He guides me in right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side. With your rod and staff that give me courage. You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come.
Additional Prayers
Vocation Prayer (Archdiocese of Dubuque)
Lord Jesus, life is Your gift to us.
Through Baptism You invite us to
share the gift of our lives in service to others.
Give us the courage and generosity
to respond to Your call.
Through the Eucharist You fill us with Your
life-giving presence and strengthen us in holiness.
Give us the grace to make our efforts in Your service
fruitful in Your kingdom.
Through Confirmation You seal us
with the gifts of the Holy Spirit and send us forth.
Give us the strength to proclaim Your Word
and make known Your Will to all the world.
Open our hearts to Your service and
move the hearts of men and women to follow You as
Priests, Deacons, Sisters and Brothers.
Help parents, grandparents and teachers to share their
Catholic faith and to encourage our young people
to explore religious vocations.
Guide all people, Lord, in Your ways
of compassion, truth, and peace,
that we may find joy
in fulfilling our vocation. Amen.
Prayer of Discernment
Lord, God, we know that by baptism and the gift of the Holy Spirit, you reign in our lives, and you call us to holiness and truth. Renew us that we might be all that you want us to be, so that we live in accord with your desires. We strive to be attentive to your promptings. Help us do what is right. Grant us the gift of knowledge, to be informed; the gift of wisdom, to use our experience; the gift of understanding, to learn from one another; the gift of right judgment, to make good decisions; the gift of courage, to enact what we decide; the gift of faith, to trust You. We ask this in the power of your Spirit, and in the name of Jesus, our Lord. Amen.
Beliefs and Practices
Formulas of Catholic Doctrine
Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12)
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart (or pure of heart), for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness (or righteousness’ sake), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.
Communion Regulations
As Catholics, we fully participate in the celebration of the Eucharist when we receive Holy Communion. We are encouraged to receive Communion devoutly and frequently.
In order to be properly disposed to receive Communion, participants should be conscious of no grave sin and normally should have fasted for one hour.
A person who is conscious of grave sin is not to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord without prior sacramental confession except for a grave reason where there is no opportunity for confession. In this case, the person is to be mindful of the obligation to make an act of perfect contrition, including the intention of confessing as soon as possible (CIC, can. 916).
A frequent reception of the Sacrament of Penance is encouraged for all.
Communion Fast
We are expected to fast from food or drink for at least one hour prior to the reception of Holy Communion.
Four Gospels
Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
Holy Days of Obligation - On these days, there is an obligation to attend Mass and to refrain from servile work as much as possible. However, the "obligation" is removed if the Feast falls on a Saturday or monday for all feasts EXCEPT Dec. *th and 25th.
Mary Mother of God - January 1
Ascension of the Lord - 40 days after Easter or the following Sunday (celebrated on the 7th Sunday of Easter in the Archdiocese of Dubuque)
The Assumption of Mary - August 15
All Saints Day - November 1
The Immaculate Conception of Mary - December 8
Nativity of our Lord or Christmas - December 25
Liturgical Year
Advent-Christmas Season (Christmas day until Sunday after Epiphany)
Ordinary Time
Lent (Ash Wednesday until Holy Thursday evening)
Paschal Triduum (Holy Thursday evening through Easter morning
Easter Season (Easter Sunday until Pentecost, 50 days after Easter)
Ordinary Time
Parts of the Mass
Introductory Rites
Gathering Song
Greeting
Penitential Rite (or blessing and sprinkling with holy water)
Glory to God
Opening Prayer
Liturgy of the Word
First Reading (usually from the Old Testament)
Responsorial Psalm
Second Reading (usually from one of the letters of the New Testament)
Gospel Acclamation
Gospel
Homily (an explanation of the readings)
Profession of Faith (Creed)
General Intercessions (Prayers of the Faithful)
Liturgy of the Eucharist
Preparation and presentation of the gifts
Prayer over gifts
Preface
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord
Eucharistic Prayer (during this prayer the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus)
The Great Amen
Communion Rite
The Lord’s Prayer
Sign of Peace
Breaking of the Bread
Lamb of God
Reception of Communion
Prayer after Communion
Concluding Rite
Blessing
Dismissal
Regulations for Fast and Abstinence
Fasting is refraining from food or drink to some degree.
Abstinence is refraining from eating meat.
In the United States, Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and abstinence, and all Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence.
The obligation to abstain from meat binds all Catholics 14 years of age and older. The obligation to fast, limiting oneself to one full meal and two lighter meals in the course of a day, binds Catholics from the ages of 21 to 59.
Seven Sacraments
Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist
Sacraments of Healing: Penance and Reconciliation; Anointing of the Sick
Sacraments at the Service of Communion: Holy Orders and Matrimony (Marriage)
The Four Cardinal Virtues
• Prudence
• Justice
• Fortitude
• Temperance
The Four Last Things
• Death
• Judgment
• Hell
• Heaven
The Fruits of the Holy Spirit
Charity
Joy
Peace
Patience
Kindness
Goodness
Generosity
Gentleness
Faithfulness
Modesty
Self-control
Chastity
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
• Wisdom
• Understanding
• Counsel (Right Judgment)
• Fortitude (Courage)
• Knowledge
• Piety (Reverence)
• Fear of the Lord (Wonder and Awe in God’s Presence)
The Golden Rule (cf. Mt 7:12)
Do unto others as you would have them do to you.
The Five Precepts of the Church
• You shall attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation and remain free from work or activity that could impede the sanctification of such days.
• You shall confess your sins at least once a year.
• You shall receive the sacrament of the Eucharist at least during the Easter season.
• You shall observe the days of fasting and abstinence established by the Church.
• You shall help to provide for the needs of the Church.
The Seven Capital Sins
• Pride
• Covetousness
• Lust
• Anger
• Gluttony
• Envy
• Sloth
The Stations of the Cross
Jesus is condemned to death.
Jesus accepts his cross.
Jesus falls the first time.
Jesus meets his mother.
Simon helps Jesus carry the cross.
Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.
Jesus falls the second time.
Jesus meets the women.
Jesus falls the third time.
Jesus is stripped of his clothes.
Jesus is nailed to the cross.
Jesus dies on the cross.
Jesus is taken down from the cross.
Jesus is placed in the tomb.
The Ten Commandments
1. I, The Lord, am your God. You shall not have other gods besides me.
2. You shall not take the name of the Lord, your God, in vain.
3. Remember to keep holy the Lord’s day.
4. Honor your father and your mother.
5. You shall not kill.
6. You shall not commit adultery.
7. You shall not steal.
8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
9. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife.
10. You shall not covet neighbor’s goods.
The Three Theological Virtues
• Faith
• Hope
• Charity
The Two Commandments of Love
• You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.
• You shall love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:37-39)
Works of Mercy
The Seven Corporal Works of Mercy
• Feed the hungry.
• Give drink to the thirsty.
• Clothe the naked.
• Shelter the homeless.
• Visit the sick.
• Visit the imprisoned.
• Bury the dead.
The Seven Spiritual Works of Mercy
• Counsel the doubtful.
• Instruct the ignorant.
• Admonish sinners.
• Comfort the afflicted.
• Forgive offenses.
• Bear wrongs patiently.
• Pray for the living and the dead.
Prayers, Beliefs and Practices
Suggested/Recommended at Developmentally Appropriate Grade Levels
Kindergarten
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Grade 1
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
Grace After a Meal
Glory Be
Morning Prayer
Angel of God
Grade 2
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before/After a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Morning Prayer
Angel of God
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
Act of Contrition
Communion Fast
Communion Regulations
The Ten Commandments
Grade 3
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before/After a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Morning Prayer
Angel of God
Act of Contrition
Communion Fast
Communion Regulations
The Ten Commandments
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
Apostles’ Creed
The Rosary
The Two Commandments of Love
Liturgical Year
Grade 4
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before/After a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Morning Prayer
Angel of God
Act of Contrition
Communion Fast
Communion Regulations
The Ten Commandments
Apostles’ Creed
The Rosary
The Two Commandments of Love
Liturgical Year
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
Jesus Prayer
Act of Faith
Act of Hope
Act of Love
Seven Sacraments
Beatitudes
Mysteries of the Rosary
Grade 5
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before/After a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Morning Prayer
Angel of God
Act of Contrition
Communion Fast
Communion Regulations
The Ten Commandments
Apostles’ Creed
The Rosary
The Two Commandments of Love
Liturgical Year
Jesus Prayer
Act of Faith
Act of Hope
Act of Love
Seven Sacraments
Beatitudes
Mysteries of the Rosary
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
The Stations of the Cross
Morning Offering
Memorare
Hail Holy Queen
The Five Precepts of the Church
Parts of the Mass
Grade 6
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before/After a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Morning Prayer
Angel of God
Act of Contrition
Communion Fast
Communion Regulations
The Ten Commandments
Apostles’ Creed
The Rosary
The Two Commandments of Love
Liturgical Year
Jesus Prayer
Act of Faith
Act of Hope
Act of Love
Seven Sacraments
Beatitudes
Mysteries of the Rosary
The Stations of the Cross
Morning Offering
Memorare
Hail Holy Queen
The Five Precepts of the Church
Parts of the Mass
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
The Seven Corporal Works of Mercy
The Seven Spiritual Works of Mercy
The Fruits of the Holy Spirit
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Four Gospels
The Golden Rule
Holy Days of Obligation
Grade 7
Sign of the Cross
Grace Before/After a Meal
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Morning Prayer
Angel of God
Act of Contrition
Communion Fast
Communion Regulations
The Ten Commandments
Apostles’ Creed
The Rosary
The Two Commandments of Love
Liturgical Year
Jesus Prayer
Act of Faith
Act of Hope
Act of Love
Seven Sacraments
Beatitudes
Mysteries of the Rosary
The Stations of the Cross
Morning Offering
Memorare
Hail Holy Queen
The Five Precepts of the Church
Parts of the Mass
The Seven Corporal Works of Mercy
The Seven Spiritual Works of Mercy
The Fruits of the Holy Spirit
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Four Gospels
The Golden Rule
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
Nicene Creed
Come, Holy Spirit (Prayer to the Holy Spirit)
Angelus
Grade 8
Sign of the Cross
Our Father/The Lord’s Prayer
Hail Mary
Grace Before/After a Meal
Glory Be
Angel of God
Act of Contrition
Communion Fast
Communion Regulations
The Ten Commandments
Apostles’ Creed
The Rosary
The Two Commandments of Love
Liturgical Year
Jesus Prayer
Act of Faith
Act of Hope
Act of Love
Seven Sacraments
Beatitudes
Mysteries of the Rosary
The Stations of the Cross
Morning Offering
Memorare
Hail Holy Queen
The Five Precepts of the Church
Parts of the Mass
The Seven Corporal Works of Mercy
The Seven Spiritual Works of Mercy
The Fruits of the Holy Spirit
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Four Gospels
The Golden Rule
Nicene Creed
Come, Holy Spirit (Prayer to the Holy Spirit)
Angelus
Holy Days of Obligation
Regulations for Fast and Abstinence
The Three Theological Virtues
The Four Cardinal Virtues
New Prayers, Beliefs and Practices introduced at this level are:
Prayer of St. Francis
Mary’s Prayer (Magnificat)
Psalm 23
Confiteor
The Seven Capital Sins
The Four Last Things