OUR MODEL AND GUIDES: THE HOLY FAMILY
Religious education at Nazareth Academy encompasses the total person and the spirit of the Holy Family of Nazareth serves as its foundation. Following the example of Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Foundress of the Congregation which sponsors our school, teachers engage every sense using tools of the contemporary world. (A variety of techniques for instruction are incorporated into lessons applying Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences). Children develop positive attitudes to our Catholic faith by giving witness to Gospel values.
The catechetical program includes two parts: instruction and formation. Each grade level of instruction is governed by guidelines formulated by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The formation program enhances catechesis so that what is taught is put into action. The program ensures that students comprehend our Catholic faith, establishes and fosters community, strengthens worship and prayer, and motivates service to others.
Parents of students of other beliefs make an agreement with Nazareth Academy Grade School that their child will study religion as part of the curriculum in a Catholic school.
The school day begins and ends with prayer. All classes begin with a prayer.
Highlights of the Program:
- Sacramental Program incorporates the third grade students participating in a “Celebration of Belonging” with their parents at the beginning of the school year as an introduction to the year’s instruction and sacramental formation prior to their Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. The fifth and sixth grade students prepare for Confirmation which is received in the home parish
- Liturgies and the reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Advent and Lent.
- There are Para - Liturgical Services, focusing on the Liturgical year.
- Re-enactment by the eighth grade students of the Passion of Jesus in the Living Stations of the Cross.