We invite you to learn more about the Catechetical Correspondence Programs:
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ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Catechetical Correspondence Program is parent-child interactive, designed to assist families in the Hamilton Diocese. While some families register their children for sacramental preparation, others take advantage of programs available for all grades from Kindergarten through Grade Eight. There are also Enrichment Courses for High School students.
Children may be in public schools, may be home-schooled, or in Montessori or French Immersion, or for valid reasons are unable to attend Catholic Schools or religion classes that are offered in their Parishes.
This home-school approach to faith development helps families grow together in their faith so that what is learned becomes what is lived in the family. Parents work closely with their children, and very often this quality time together becomes a wonderful opportunity for special bonding. For these reasons some parents of children in the Catholic Schools also register, and some adults, as well, are asking for programs to update their faith.
ORIGIN
Bishop Joseph Ryan, in 1938, invited the Loretto Sisters to implement correspondence courses in the Hamilton Diocese. Now, since 1995, the School Sisters of Notre Dame administer this program under the auspices of Bishop Anthony Tonnos and the Hamilton Diocesan Religious Education Department.
OUR CATECHISTS
Retired School Sisters of Notre Dame and several St. Joseph Sisters of the Hamilton Diocese, bring their valued years of experience to the ministry of catechesis. A number of generously committed Laity also assist with evaluating the work their assigned students mail to them. The emphasis is on a positive evaluation.
Our catechists are careful to treat papers they evaluate, not as tests but as efforts to learn about and live our faith. They pray daily for the students and their families. A catechist ’s comments invite students to celebrate their correct answers and to learn from their mistakes. This positive approach is the best way to motivate children to complete their courses and grow in their faith. Often children who don't have the capacity to retain a lot of head knowledge are the very ones living their faith profoundly. Thus we really shouldn't be "testing" their faith. No one ever really graduates from faith formation; we learn and grow in our understanding our whole life long
Our catechists and the coordinators of the Catechetical Correspondence Course are always available to offer parents any support and/or clarification they may need. Guidelines for Parents accompany each course that families request.
WORKING WITH THE PARISH
Progress Reports are periodically sent to the pastor, the pastoral minister and catechetical coordinator in the specific parish. These may request a progress update at any time. Certificates are issued for completed courses.
For children who are preparing for the sacraments, parents will need to contact their pastor and see what is available in the parish (meetings, retreat days, rehearsals, immediate preparation, etc.).
Each spring through summer, parishes print bulletin announcements and provide current registration forms so that children can begin their programs by early September. Most children finish them by April or May, but arrangements can be made for those who need the summer to work.
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