Education

Marriage Preparation - Arrangements for the celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage are to be made at least six (6) months, preferably twelve (12), before the wedding takes place. A number of meetings with the pastor are required. It is up to the engaged couple to make the arrangements for these meetings. Information for a marriage preparation program may be obtained by called 421-5777 or by contacting the Central Office at 884-6815.

Baptism Preparation – A class for parents seeking Baptism for a child is given approximately every two months by the pastor or his representative. This gives the pastor an opportunity to get to know the parents a little better. Also, it is a time to review the parental obligations that accompany the presentation of a child for Baptism. Contact the Central Office at 884-6815.

Religious Education Program - The CCD program at St. James Parish is coordinated by a network of dedicated volunteers. All of our teachers and our coordinator donate their time and talents to ensure that the children of our parish receive the truths of our Catholic Faith. The CCD program uses the "Faith and Life" catechism series for grades 1 thru 8. Our program greatly depends on parental involvement. The classroom time is primarily used to reinforce and strengthen the lessons that are studied at home during the week.

The coursework of the upper grades (9 thru 11) uses texts based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. We begin to expect more from the youth in these grades with regard to time, prayer, and comprehension. These are the grades when the application of the Faith to every day life is "taught." There is more discussion and interactive work as the teachers help the youth to more fully understand Church teachings. Provided the youth demonstrate readiness, they are confirmed (currently) in eleventh grade.