St.

Michaels Catholic Church Parish School of Religion

Student/Parent Handbook Middle and High School 2012-2013

St. Michael Catholic Church Parish School of Religion

106 N. Western Ave. Girard, KS 66743 office: 620.724.8717 during PSR classes: 620.724.4319 (hall) www.stmichaelgirard.com

parish office hours: Tuesday-Friday from 9:30 am - noon

Our Parish Mission Statement

We the parishioners of Saint Michael the Archangel, through leadership and strong traditions are faithful disciples of the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Catholic church. We will commit ourselves to be generous stewards of our faith, our parish and our community. We will strive to involve all members to be united in one parish family for the salvation of all.
(draft)

Table of Contents Introduction Goals Parental/Student commitment statement Catechists Class logistics Admission policy Non-discrimination policy Registration Class times Attendance Tardiness Arrival/Dismissal Supervision Cancellation of classes Fees Homework Policies Discipline General rules Cell phones/electronic equipment Tobacco, Drugs & Alcohol & Weapons Policy Dress code Harassment Smoking Medication Safe Environment/VIRTUS Internet & Electronic communications Accident/Illness Emergency Situations Special Needs Conduct in church Participation in Liturgical Celebrations Sacramental programs Other items Appendix A: Mass etiquette Appendix B: Suggestions for Parents Parent/student handbook agreement (copy) 2 2 3 4

5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 6

7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 9 10 11 12 13 14

St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013 Page 1

 Introduction

CCDPSRReligious Edcatechismwhat does it mean and why does the name keep changing?
Over the last several decades, the name CCD has been, in many areas, replaced by religious education. This change has been initiated by those in charge of directing the catechesis of the Church. Out of this came Parish School of Religion or PSR which was used to describe the religious education program of parishes outside of that taught in catholic schools. Why the change in name? Some felt that it gave greater emphasis to the multifaceted nature of our faith experience. They felt evangelization was more than teaching doctrine: it is teaching persons to seek Christ, find Christ, know Christ, and love Christ. Some thought that the goal of CCD was only to teach doctrine, preferring the broader title "religious education." Despite the various names, they basically mean the same thing: weekly classes in the faith for youth covering the creed, the sacraments, the commandments and prayer. While we are moving towards using the term PSR in our parish, all these names fall under the broader title Faith Formation, which is what our diocesan office formerly known as the Office of Religious Education is now called.

Goals of the Program

The distinctive purpose of catholic education is to help all to proclaim the Gospel, build community, and be moved to service of one another. Priests, catechists, parents and students should experience what it means to live a life of personal and community responsibility in Christ. Educators and all those responsible for Catholic faith formation strive to enable students to grow toward the following goals as they participate in programs, activities, and practices.
Become A Fully Developed Catholic Person have a well-rounded education for cognitive, affective and behavioral development have a religion program that forms and informs possess a mastery of skills and competencies for learning develop a learning program suited to individual ability/needs have opportunities to build self-identity, self-worth, self-esteem appreciate self as a unique person of dignity, loved by God integrate human and spiritual growth have a love for learning and continuing personal development create a climate for developing self-discipline and responsibility develop skills for adjusting to a changing world/society have opportunities for physical and mental fitness Live As A Catholic In Community: Family, Neighborhood, Parish, Nation, World live in a faith community in which adults are Catholic models have opportunities to pray and worship with school/family/parish communities be educated for justice, peace, mercy experience collaboration of family and school recognize all as brothers and sisters with God as Creator of all appreciate people of other races/cultures realize the interdependence of peoples develop skills for living in society: communication; career preparation; reasoning abilities; problem solving; decision making; critical thinking. . . understand the responsibilities of citizenship demonstrate concern for public health and safety Choose Catholic Values For Living Now And For Life study human values common to all: friendship; freedom; fairness; human rights; pride in work study Catholic/Gospel values; establishment of priorities have growth opportunities for moral development assist in formation of conscience have guidelines and opportunities for making Catholic moral decisions grow in appreciation of culture and beauty
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 2

 Parent/Student Commitment Statement

Our PSR program is founded on a partnership with parents. This partnership works best when all parties acknowledge their respective roles and responsibilities in the education of children. Accordingly, St. Michael's PSR program accepts students whose parents know the value of religious education and desire a special kind of school where catholic teaching and moral formation are an integral part of the student's experience. As evidence of your understanding of the fundamental principles of the PSR program, and your essential role in its success, we ask all parents to assent to the following Parent Commitment Statement:

We/I know that no matter how clearly and effectively the parish of St. Michael communicates the truths of our faith, unless my children see these truths take flesh in our family, there is little hope that the faith will take root in their hearts. I understand, therefore, my own witness is essential to the religious development and growth of my children. Aware of the dignity of this call from God and acknowledging the responsibility which is mine, I re-commit myself to be, in word and deed, the first teacher of my children.

In so committing, I pledge:

We/I, as a family, will participate consistently and actively in the Sunday Eucharist We/I will speak to my children about God and make prayer an integral and important part of the environment of our home. We/I will participate and cooperate in the religious education and especially the sacramental preparation of my children, and to become more knowledgeable about the Catholic Faith; We/I will accept my responsibility to support the moral and social teachings of the Catholic Church to ensure consistency between home and school We/I will teach my children by work and example to have a love and concern for the needs of others, especially the poor;

print name: _____________________________

signature _______________________________

date___________________

print name: _____________________________ signature _______________________________

date___________________

Student statement
As a student in the St. Michaels PSR program, I pledge to do my best to learn and grow in my faith. I will act with respect towards myself, other students, members of the parish, and Gods creation. I will join with my parish community to celebrate Sunday Eucharist. __________________________ ____________________________ _________________________ signature of student signature of student signature of student
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 3

St. Michael PSR middle & high school catechists

2012-2013

Pastor & Director of Religious Education:

Fr. Roger Lumbre
judicis20@yahoo.com

Evening program coordinator:

Michelle Smith-Puckett
msmithpuckett@hotmail.com

Catechists by grade:
6th grade 7th grade 8th grade 9th grade 10th grade 11th grade 12th grade

Butch Reif Mary Leritz Kristen & Doug Graham Fr. Roger Lumbre Pat Westhoff Mary McClaskey Dr. Adam Paoni & Faith Paoni

butchandmary@ckt.net mleritz@yahoo.com kristen.j.graham@gmail.com; doug.graham@gmail.com judicis20@yahoo.com pat@maroofing.com mmcclaskey1997@yahoo.com apaoni@girardmedicalcenter.com; fpaoni@yahoo.com

Confirmation team:
Fr. Roger Lumbre Dr. Adam Paoni Michelle Smith-Puckett Pat Westhoff Rachel Ausemus Carrie Smith

High school youth ministry (CYM)

oz@ckt.net csmith@girard248.org

Our program reflects the following principles:

We view the family as the first community of faith. We know that in our parish there is a wide range of family formssingle-parent, blended, and two-parent families. We believe parents are the primary religious educators of their children.
Page 4

St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

We identify ourselves as partners with you. One hour a week cannot compare in terms of influence to the thousands of hours a child spends with family and friends.

Partnership

By choosing to enroll your child in the PSR program, you are agreeing to a partnership with the parish and yourself, as the primary educator. The religious formation of your child is dependent upon an active faith life within your family. Participation at the Sunday liturgy and family prayer are essentials for faith development. The parish provides well-planned liturgies, the source and high point of religious experience. The PSR program offers religious instruction consistent with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Our catechists are people of faith who volunteer their time and talent. They prepare lessons with care and use a curriculum approved by the diocese of Wichita. Your support and cooperation with the program plays a vital role in our success. By working together in a spirit of love and concern for the needs of the children & youth, we hope to create a positive experience of church in the process of passing on the faith.

Class Logistics
Admission Policy
St. Michaels PSR Program is a parish religious education program founded to serve the people of St. Michael and St. Joseph parishes who parents subscribe to the philosophy and goals of the program (as witnessed by their acceptance of the "Parental Commitment Statement"). Students attend the same PSR grade, 1 12, as coincides with their grade level at school.

Non-discrimination policy

St. Michaels Parish and PSR Program admits students of any sex, race, religion, color, nationality, and ethnic origin to programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students in the program. It does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, nationality or ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, employment practices or other PSR administered programs.

Catholic Doctrine
St. Michaels Parish and PSR Program shall uphold the teachings and disciplines of the Roman Catholic Church. Compromising the tenets of the faith in word or deed will not be tolerated.

Registration
No student will be admitted to class until she or he has been registered. Registrations are typically completed prior to the first regular class session of the year. Registrations are accepted during the year for new and transfer students.

Class Times
Classes are held on Wednesday evenings for students in grades 6-12. Evening classes begin with mass at 6:30 pm followed by classroom instruction that ends at 8:15 pm. Please check the calendar for PSR holidays.

Attendance
Regular class attendance is crucial to a childs religious education. It is expected that a student will miss ONLY for a serious reason. Catechists lesson plans build on the previous weeks material making attendance important for your childs understanding of the concepts presented for the year. Regular attendance is imperative for those students in sacramental classes. Punctual arrival of students is expected. Evening classes begin with mass at 6:30 pm followed by classroom instruction that ends at 8:15 pm. If a student needs to leave class early, written consent from the parent/guardian is required before class begins.

St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 5

 If a child becomes ill during class, parents will be contacted. If parents cannot be reached by phone, the individual on the emergency section of the registration form will be contacted. Please keep this information updated.

Tardiness
It is very important to be in class on time. Tardy arrivals disrupt classes and rob students of valuable class time. Thus, tardiness must be held to a minimum.

Arrival/Departure Procedures Arrival

Upon arrival, all students are to proceed to the church to sit with their class for mass at 6:30 pm. After mass, students will walk quietly to their classrooms in the parish hall. If a student arrives after mass has begun, they are to enter the church and sit quietly. No student is allowed into a classroom without a catechist present. Students should not go directly to the parish hall before classes have begun.

Departure
Students are dismissed from class at 8:15 pm from the evening program. Parents/guardians may pick up their child from their classroom or in the parking lot.

Supervision
No supervision is provided before or after class time. Students are not encouraged to arrive more than 5 minutes before class time. Students should be picked up promptly after class.

Cancellation of classes
If Girard Public Schools (USD #248) cancels class on Wednesday, there will be no classes that afternoon or evening. If Girard Public Schools are in but the normal school day is shorten for any reason (weather or teacher in-service, for example) there will be no classes that afternoon or evening. If school is in session but inclement weather develops during the day or in the hours just prior to PSR class time, there may be a question whether PSR classes will be held that evening. If it is determined that the best decision is to cancel classes because of bad weather or a definite threat of bad weather, the cancellation of classes will be announced at each of the elementary, middle and high schools. An e-mail message will also be sent to all those whose e-mail addresses are listed on your registration form. We do NOT have a telephone chain so you will NOT receive a telephone call.

Fees
St. Michael's PSR Program is funded primarily through the parish funds supplemented by nominal family enrollment fees each year. Hence, it is very important that families do their fair share in supporting the parish with their time, talents and financial gifts. The tuition for the program is $10.00 per student per year (1 child=10.00, 2 or more children=20.00). Tuition is due at registration or before the first night of class.

Homework
Homework assignments will occasionally be made by your child's catechist. Parents are expected to keep abreast of their child's weekly assignments and to assist their children in arriving at class with homework and other class preparation completed. Assignments may include reading or other written work from the student text, family interaction, prayer experiences, taking notes regarding the Scripture readings or homily from Sunday Mass, etc. This is especially important for students preparing to receive sacraments for the first time. At each grade level, there exist a certain number of prayers or basic information that must be committed to memory. Parents are responsible for the childs progress in this area. Parents are encouraged to pray the prayers as a family, thus making it easier for the child to memorize the prayers.
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 6

 Your support at these times is very important and we thank you for it in advance.

General Policies

Discipline
Each teacher will clearly communicate her/his expectations regarding general rules and specific classroom rules and what the consequences of various student behaviors will be. Rules will be clear and concise.

If there is a behavior problem in the classroom, the student will be asked to stop. If the student continues to misbehave, then Father Roger will be asked to talk with them. If the students misbehavior continues, the parents will then be contacted and possibly asked to pick up student from class to prevent disruptions for the remainder of the class.

General Rules
A students behavior is to be consistent with the example given us in the person of Jesus. This behavior is expected at all times, and is to be extended to all persons. Behavior includes physical actions, speech, and manner toward others. Jesus teaches us to be loving, caring, and forgiving. The following rules will be observed by all students: uphold the dignity of all persons by treating fellow students, catechists, and others with Christian respect care for and preserve textbooks, supplies, the contents of the desks we use and the parish hall and grounds conduct according to sound Christian moral principles at all times fully participate in the educational, prayer and liturgical programs create an environment which is conducive to learning, prayer and worship by not running, yelling or engaging in other disruptive behaviors in the church or hall, including the use of cell phones in any manner

Cell phones/electronic equipment

Students are not to have cell phones out during class. Use of cell phones during class will not be tolerated and will be confiscated and given to the Coordinator. Parents may retrieve cell phones from the Coordinator when classes have concluded. Students may not bring items such as toys, electronic equipment, headphones, etc or any object that may distract from class. If a student needs to make a phone call, there is one available in the office that they may use with permission.

Tobacco, Drugs and Alcohol
Any student found to be in possession of tobacco, drugs, alcohol or any controlled substance will be immediately suspended from the program. Included are any harmless look-like drugs or medication brought, displayed, distributed or promoted as providing a specific effect or aid to improvement of skill or ability. Any such substance construed as abusive or dangerous in nature and which is observed as potentially harmful in essence or intent to the welfare of any student is prohibited and will be subject to disciplinary action.

Weapon Policy
An item viewed in the eyes of the catechist as a weapon shall be confiscated, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action. A weapon could be any instrument, tool, device or bodily part that can cause bodily harm to an
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013 Page 7

individual and/or cause damage to personal property. Depending on the nature of the offense, the police or other public authorities may be immediately notified.

Dress
Christian modesty and respectability is expected within our environment. Students attending the PSR program should present themselves in a manner of dress that promotes Christian modesty. Anyone with questionable dress will be asked to wear something from the office for the duration of class.

Harassment
Harassment of any nature of/by students will not be tolerated and will be subject to disciplinary action. A conference will be held with the student, catechist, students parents, and the pastor.

Smoking

St. Michaels PSR is in accord with the advice and direction of the Diocese of Wichita, Kansas, and will comply as a non-smoking environment.

Medication
PSR personnel will not dispense medication of any kind (including non-prescription medication such as aspirin, Tylenol, etc.) to any student.

Visitors
Visitors are not allowed in the classrooms without prior permission. We are very open to sharing our program and all that we do with parents and other interested parties and visitors, but please coordinate in advance with your childs catechist.

Safe Environment Program- VIRTUS

The Wichita Diocese has established a Safe Environment Program which is designed to protect children while they are in the care, custody or control of any person working on behalf of the Church. Part of the program requires every person (paid or volunteer) interested in working with children to have a background check and to take VIRTUS training. The purpose of this background check is to make sure we do not accept those whose criminal backgrounds would prevent them from volunteering with children (offenses such as assault, domestic violence, corruption of a minor, sexual crimes, etc.) The class is designed to raise awareness of the problem of sexual abuse and how to prevent it. The required class educates adults on how to recognize the warning signs of abuse in children and what to do when they suspect a child is being victimized. VIRTUS training/volunteer registration form and standards of conduct form are mandatory for volunteers 18 and older. Please contact the Parish Office for forms and training information or go to www.virtus.org to participate in a training session at a convenient place and time.

Mandated Reporting
St. Michaels Parish complies with the Kansas Child Abuse Reporting law. All catechists and staff, as mandated reporters, are required to report situations of suspected abuse or neglect to proper authorities.

Internet and Electronic Communications Conduct:

A safe environment for all members of the community should be a hallmark of a parish school of religion. This is accomplished, in part, by fostering a climate based on Gospel values that emphasize the dignity of and respect for all persons. Words, actions, or depictions which violate the privacy, safety, or good name of others are inconsistent with that goal. When students jeopardize the safe environment or act contrary to those Gospel values they can be subject to disciplinary action by the parish school of religion.
Page 8

St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

This policy applies to communications or depictions through e-mail, text messages, or web site postings, whether they occur through the PSRs equipment or connectivity resources or through private communications, which: (1) are of a sexual nature; (2) threaten, libel, slander, malign, disparage, harass or embarrass members of the PSR community or (3) in the coordinator or pastors discretion, cause harm to St. Michaels or the PSR community (collectively referred to as Inappropriate Electronic Conduct). Volunteers may not use personal websites, blogs, e-mail, social networking sites, text messaging, and the like to individually communicate with students. For convenience, PSR catechists & volunteers may communicate with parents using a personal cell phone to ensure student safety in an emergency situation. Parents/guardians are encouraged to report to the pastor or Coordinator any electronic or digital communications in violation of this policy.

Accidents, Illness & Injuries

All student accidents, injuries or illness happening on parish property during PSR should be reported to the PSR Coordinator and/or pastor immediately. Parents will be contacted immediately for determination of response and action.

Emergency Situations/Sheltering in Place

It is imperative that all schools have a plan of action in case of local, state, or national emergency. The following plan will be used should an event that warrants the cancellation of classes occur. 1. If an emergency occurs in the community, state, or nation during the day prior to a PSR session, classes would be cancelled that evening. Tune into the local news channels for news of the cancellation. 2. If an emergency occurs in the community, state, or nation during PSR and there is no immediate danger, classes would finish as scheduled and the situation would be assessed for the following week. 3. If an emergency occurs and there was an imminent threat to the Girard area, the building would be locked down with entrance into the facilities through one door (south main entrance). In such an event, we would ask that parents pick up their children and do so by coming to your childs classroom. Teachers have been instructed to only let students go if a parent is present. 4. In the case that weather sirens would be sounded indicating approaching severe weather, students would be escorted to the designated community shelter, RV Haderlein Elementary, to take shelter in their basement.
Although it is unlikely we will have to use such a plan, we hope you can see the importance in being prepared.

Students with Special Needs

We strive to offer appropriate religious formation for all children and youth regardless of their abilities or needs. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) stated in 1995, By reason of their baptism, all Catholics are equal in dignity in the sight of God and have the same divine calling. We work with families to place all students in our classes.

Conduct in Church
At different times throughout the year students will go to church, either as a class or the entire group. Proper behavior and a respectful attitude is expected of them. Hats should be removed. Student should bless themselves with Holy Water upon entering the church. Before entering and leaving the pew, each student should genuflect/bow to the tabernacle making the Sign of the Cross. Students are encouraged to actively participate in the liturgy with word, song and active listening.

Participation in Liturgical Celebrations

Several liturgical and sacramental opportunities are available throughout the school year: opportunity to receive Reconciliation during the fall and during Lent, attend prayer services at various times throughout the year like participate in the rosary, and Stations of the Cross. For the most part, PSR classes are instructional classes. Children will receive the bulk of their liturgical training and upbringing by attending Mass weekly as a family. Young children can receive a blessing from the priest during communion. Simply have the child cross their arms over their
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 9

chest when they approach the priest, instead of receiving the Body of Christ. Having young children wait for this special sacrament builds a desire in their heart for Jesus.

Sacramental Programs
St. Michael's PSR Program leads second grade students to the reception of First Reconciliation and First Communion and leads high school aged students to the reception of Confirmation. It is very important for students to be active in the PSR program each and every year. IT IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY THAT STUDENTS PREPARING FOR THE RECEPTION OF THE SACRAMENTS ATTEND CLASS REGULARLY, COMPLETE ALL ASSIGNMENTS AND PARTICIPATE FULLY IN THE PROCESS. In addition to classroom instruction, parent meetings are conducted to assist the family in preparing for the sacraments. Attendance by at least one parent at these meetings is mandatory, and both parents are highly encouraged to attend. Parents will be notified the date and time of these meetings. Special note regarding Confirmation: Students must attend Confirmation preparation to be considered candidates for Confirmation. During this time a special emphasis is placed on demonstrating a willingness to live the Christian life and on integrating Christian values in the students everyday life.

Preparation
The sacramental life is one of the distinguishing characteristics of Catholicism. We live in wonder and awe of the power and love of God, which we recognize in Gods creation, in moments when we are clear and certain that God is with us in the beauty of our humanity here on earth. The role of catechesis is preparing to celebrate sacraments, assist children with understanding how God is at work in our lives, and how we respond as individuals and as a people.

Reconciliation The Sacrament of Penance celebrates and makes real Gods forgiveness in our lives.
Catechetical preparation seeks to make clear that in relationship with God and with each other, we choose to act rightly or wrongly; that we seek forgiveness from God and the community of faith; that we forgive and are forgiven.

Eucharist Eucharist unites us ever more deeply to Christ and to one another throughout our lives.
We celebrate and pray together in thanksgiving that Christ is with us here and now, and proclaim in our celebration and with our lives that Christ always will be. Catechesis for children seeks to strengthen their awareness of Gods love and of their call to participate in the Body of Christ, and in the works of charity, service, and witness. Catechesis also encourages parents to reflect on their own Eucharistic life, how it is growing and developing, and how to share it with children.

Confirmation Baptism brings us into the Body of Christ. Confirmation affirms and strengthens us in our
participation in the mission of Christ. Catechesis prepares the candidate to understand the message to which they are to respond and the faith they profess. Parents and sponsors are intimately involved in parish catechesis for Confirmation.

Permanent Records
The Parish Rectory maintains permanent records for all students with particular regard to the reception of the sacraments. Please note that in order to receive First Communion and Confirmation, we must have a copy of the
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 10

child's baptismal certificate. If your child was not baptized at either St. Michael or St. Joseph, you will need to provide a copy of their certificate.

Other items
Family Events
During the course of the year several events are planned for family participation. Please check the calendar and plan on joining our PSR community for these special celebrations.

Catechetical Sunday
Catechists are commissioned in their ministry as catechists annually at a parish mass. We encourage you to join us in celebrating the gift of our teachers. Catechetical Sunday is September 9th.

Lenten Operation Rice Bowl Mission Project

Each year during Lent, our children engage in some project in order to generate an awareness of the specific needs of the people in the world around them and their connectedness and responsibility to others. A more global focus on childrens poverty compliments the mission work we do locally in our community and in our own parish.

Totus Tuus (vacation bible school)

Each year vacation Bible School is scheduled during the summer months. This program is designed for students entering 1st through the 12th grade. Youth are encouraged to come and experience the love of Jesus through drama, singing, games, crafts, fellowship and creative bible exploration. Dates and registration details go out in early summer.

Eucharistic Adoration
St. Michaels church has designated Friday as our day of special graces for adoration with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Father exposes the Blessed Eucharist for adoration immediately following 7 am mass, and reposes Him with prayer at 6 pm. It is our responsibility to take some time to adore God by making a visit and receive special blessings. All our children are encouraged to spend time before the Blessed Sacrament for quiet prayer and adoration.

Youth Ministry
Starting each fall, all high school youth are invited to participate in Catholic Youth Ministry (CYM) one Wednesday each month during normal PSR class. These evenings will be a mixture of social time, prayer, games, faith learning, and discussion. Other social and service opportunities will be available so long as there are sufficient parent volunteers to help with food, transportation and chaperone presence. This will be open to all high school aged teens at St. Michael and St. Joseph parishes. St. Michaels will once again sponsor another youth pilgrimage in association with March For Life pilgrimage during the week of January 23-28, 2013. Fundraising with the team allows participants (adult chaperones and youth) to help offset the costs of attending.
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 11

Appendix A

Mass Etiquette
Etiquette is not for the sake of stuffy formalism. Etiquette ministers a style of holiness and an attitude of genuine humanity. John J. OBrien, C.P.

Arriving on Time
We ask that you make every attempt to be on time (even early) to Mass. Remember to allow yourself enough time for parking. Due to circumstances out of our control, we understand that there are times tardiness cannot be avoided. If Mass has begun, please enter through the main doors. Please wait for an usher to assist you since we do not seat people during particular moments of the liturgy, such as during the readings or the prayers. Remember that it is better to be present, even if late, than it is to be absent from the assembly. An alternative would be to wait until the next Mass.

Leaving Before the Final Blessing

Leaving church before the dismissal ignores another important part of the Liturgy. At the dismissal, we celebrate our commission as set forth by Jesus Christ himself. In that, Jesus last words to his disciples were Therefore, go out and make disciples of all nations And behold, I am with you until the end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20. Our liturgy has a beginning (In the name of the Father) and an end (Let us go in peace to love and serve the Lord ). To leave immediately after Communion is to treat church like a fast food restaurant where we come and go as we please. We live in a fast-paced world where we seem to be hurrying from place to place. But in Gods presence, we need to make every attempt to fight this pressure to move on to the next thing on the days agenda. Eat and run at McDonalds but stay in church and thank God for his precious gifts. Announcements Announcements are family business. Please refrain from visiting and listen attentively to the announcements.

Cell Phones and Pagers

Please remember to silence all cell phones and pagers before entering the church. There should be no text messaging during Mass.
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 12

Appendix B

HOW YOUR CHILD CAN GET THE MOST FROM PSR

ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO SHARE THEIR CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE WITH YOU
Make time to discuss with your children what they did in PSR class. A typical answer is nothing. Try hard to draw your childs answer past nothing, and talk about something that happened. Ask them to share with you one thing they learned in class they didnt know before. Share your religious experiences with your children.

REGULAR ATTENDANCE AT MASS, SPECIAL SERVICES AND CELEBRATIONS

Religious education is incomplete without practicing ones faith. Take your child to Mass on Sundays and Holy Days. Attend special liturgical celebrations with your child. It is important that you take your child to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation on a regular basis.

COMMUNICATION
You are encouraged to call your childs catechist, one of the coordinators, youth ministers or the pastor should any problems arise or should you have any questions or suggestions. The catechists, likewise, are encouraged to call upon you for assistance. Please be open to communication. This is the best deterrent to small problems becoming big ones. You are encouraged and welcomed to sit in on your childs class at any time. The most common methods of communication include: weekly parish bulletin e-mail parish web site: www.stmichaelgirard.com From time-to-time your child may be given papers with important papers to take home. Please ask them each week if they have anything for you. EMAIL is the most frequently used means of communicating important information. It is very important: 1) that we have a workable email address for you (or someone who can accept email for you, 2) that you check your email, and 3) that you inform the PSR program of any changes to your email address.

PRAY WITH YOUR CHILDREN

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of prayer. A child learns their first prayers from their parents before they come to PSR classes. Prayer is defined as raising the mind and heart to God. People raise their minds and hearts for the purpose of being in contact with God for a variety of reasons and to discover His love and His will. Parents should understand that there are many ways of raising the mind and heart to God. While there are many forms of prayer, our traditional prayers weave us together as a Catholic Christian community.

DEVELOP A SPIRIT OF STEWARDSHIP IN YOUR CHILDREN

We provide each child with parish envelopes. These envelopes (available for younger children as well as teens) allow each child to write out their gift of time, talent and treasure for the week before bringing them in to mass
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 13

each weekend. Envelopes are available at the back of the church or can be requested from the PSR office. Our goal is begin teaching our children how to act as honorable stewards. Everyone needs the dignity of knowing that their contributions matter to the community they are a part of. This program will be considered successful if we can better teach our children that they too have the right to contribute at the level God has gifted them.

PSR Parent/Student Handbook Agreement

I have received and read the St. Michaels Parish PSR Parent/Student Handbook for the 2012-2013 PSR school year and accept the policies regarding program goals, my roles as a parent, and policies on attendance, sacrament preparation, dress code, and discipline contained in the handbook.

Parent/ Guardian agreement:

__________________________________________________ signature __________________________________________________ print name __________________________________________________ signature __________________________________________________ print name ____________________ date

____________________ date

Student agreement:
_________________________________________________ signature __________________________________________________ print name ____________________ date

_________________________________________________ signature __________________________________________________ print name ____________________ date

_________________________________________________
St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

____________________
Page 14

signature __________________________________________________ print name

date

St. Michael PSR Handbook Middle/High School, 2012-2013

Page 15