Religion Curriculum
St. Francis de Sales School's religion follows the Archdiocese of Chicago curriculum, including coursework on the Bible, liturgical practices, church history, and the sacraments. Living our faith is part of everything we do and extends beyond religion class.
Morning Prayer
All classrooms begin each day with a morning prayer read over the PA by the administration. We also use special prayers during Advent and Lent. We learn “Padre Nuestro” in Spanish class and have a special focus on the Rosary during the months of October and May.
Weekly All-School Mass
Every Wednesday and on Holy Days of Obligation, the school children and teachers attend Mass at 8:30 a.m. Each homeroom class, from kindergarten through 8th grade, plans and prepares the Liturgy for two Masses per academic year. The students who are responsible for the Mass also participate in the preparation of gifts, read from holy Scripture, offer petitions, and serve as cantors, musicians, candle bearers, altar servers, and greeters. The parish offers many Sunday and Holy Day Masses for students to attend with their families.
Sacramental Preparation
The Pastor, parish staff, school teachers, and Catechists teach the Sacramental programs for Holy Eucharist and Reconciliation during elementary school and Confirmation during high school. Each Sacramental preparation program begins with a parent meeting. Students in second grade prepare for both Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. Confirmation at St. Francis de Sales is for high school students and is offered through the Youth Ministry Department of the Church. The Confirmation program is a two-year journey of Sacramental preparation.
First Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered to students during Lent and Advent. First Reconciliation is offered to second graders in February of the school year.
First Holy Communion
The Sacrament of Holy Communion is offered to students at the weekly all-school Mass. First Holy Communion is offered to second graders in May of the school year.