Religion

First and foremost, consideration is given to the spiritual dimension as written in the school’s mission statement: Learn the key teachings of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church and understand how the Gospel values guide a life of faith, justice, and service to others – especially the less fortunate.

 

The school is charged with the spiritual formation of the students and teachers. This is best accomplished with a collaborative approach among the school, the parish and the archdiocese. The parish takes primary responsible for the sacramental and liturgical programs. Students attend monthly masses in the parish church. Two special masses are offered to our families during the year. One is an opening liturgy in September and the other celebrates Catholic School Week in January.

The school has a liturgical choir, which enlivens school liturgies. The First Penance and First Communion programs take place during the second grade. Classroom teachers prepare students for these important events.

While Saint Columbkille Partnership School is a Catholic school, it must be recognized that a portion of the student population are not Catholic. Sensitivity to the non-Catholic students and parents is important.

The school day begins with prayer. This prayer is preceded by a spiritual message. Prayer services take place at student assemblies and in classrooms during the seasons of Lent and Advent. The school plans other spiritual activities such as the Cantata (Nativity), Living Stations of the Cross, and the May Procession. The school is planning retreat opportunities for the students and teachers to deepen faith formation.

K2 through seventh grade uses the Sadlier, We Believe religious education series. Grade eight uses the book Catholic Social Teaching published by Ave Maria Press. Opportunities arise over the course of the school year for students to be engaged in service projects.