Religious Education

Religious Education Curriculum 

St. Gabriel's Religious Education program is grounded on the traditional teachings and practices of the Catholic Church.  We follow the guidelines set by the Diocese of Trenton.  Grade 3 is a Sacramental year in which the children are prepared for the reception of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. Preparation for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation is a two year process, beginning in grade 7. The reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation is administered to those who have successfully completed the Program and have met all Parish, Diocesan and Canonical requirements in grade 9.

We use the following program: Kindergarten, Grades 1-8, Alive in Christ,  published by Our Sunday Visitor.  This series has an interactive website that can assist you with your child's religious formation. The link to the website is:  http://aliveinchrist.osv.com/family

Each student will receive a student workbook at the beginning of the year.  Replacement books will be ordered at a cost of $25.00 for each student.

The Diocesan Family Life Curriculum

The family life program is in place to offer Catholic moral teaching and development. The series, RCL Benziger, Family Life,  focuses on: family, self, life, love and community.  The program is taught in grades 1-8. There is a family component to this program.  Family Life is taught in the month of January.

First Holy Communion Preparation

First Holy Communion preparation begins in second grade. Students receive the Sacrament of First Communion on April 25, 2020(refer to school calendar).  All Parents are asked to attend a First Reconciliation/ First Holy Communion meeting November 5, 2019 - 5:00 PM OR 7:00 PM (parents may attend either one). MEDIA ROOM

Students receive First Reconciliation (Penance, Confession) on Tuesday, December 10, 2019 - 7:00 PM IN THE CHURCH - There will be no classes for Grade 3.

All students in grade 3 accompanied by 1 adult will come together for a First Holy Communion Gathering - You Are What You Eat - April 2, 2020 10am-12.  We will meet in the church hall. 

Middle School - Confirmation Preparation

There is a 20 hour Christian service requirement for all students in grades 7 and 8.  This is a total of 20 hours to be completed in a two year period.  There are several opportunities offered through the Religious Education Office and through St. Gabriel's Church.  Please check with the Religious Education office for further direction.  In addition, check the website, flyers, FB page and bulletin for opportunities.  

All students in grade 7 and 8 must hand in 20 Mass bulletins per year.

Students in grade 8 are invited to attend a retreat - R U Really Giving 100%?  "Bam, Let's Kick It Up a Notch".  Presented by Collenn Rayner of CKR Retreats - Friday, October 4, 2019 6:30-9:30 - Meet in the church hall. Student and one parent or guardian must attend.

Prior to Confirmation, students must complete a Confirmation packet which is handed out in January and returned in April.  In addition, all 8th grade students must attend a Confirmation Interview conducted by our Pastor, deacons, director of Religious Education and teachers.  Lastly, all students in grade 9 must attend a Confirmation Retreat prior to Confirmation.  Please see our calendar for all dates. 

RELIGIOUS ED CALENDAR