Parish Primary Religious EducationIntroduction
Most of the catechetical activity at parish level revolves around catechesis for the sacraments e.g. the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) or programmes for infant Baptism or for the preparation of young people for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and Eucharist.
The guidelines and resources for these come mainly from diocesan offices.
However, it is recognised that not all children attend a Catholic School, and so the NCRS produces two programmes to support parish catechists in more general catechesis.
The programme for parish primary Religious Education in Aotearoa New Zealand covers much of the same ground as the programme for Catholic Primary schools. It takes into account the differences in the of parish setting, particularly the limited time available to catechists.
The material for each session follows a set pattern. A suggested procedure for catechists is contained in numbered boxes, with the most important section highlighted so that the catechist can organise the session to make sure that this material is covered. Surrounding each numbered box is information for the catechist relevant to that part of the process.
Also included are:
- Scripture or other texts for catechists to reflect on before the session
- A list of songs, prayers and other useful resources
- A list of Learning Outcomes – these are a guide to what children should learn.
The Programme
The programme is structured in 6 levels;
- Junior A & B (ages 5 - 7),
- Middle A & B (ages 8 - 9) and
- Senior A & B (ages 10 - 12).
It contains:
- A Catechist Guide for each level
- A Children’s Activity Book for each level
- A Music and Prayer Resource consisting of
- a CD of songs and
- a Clearfile containing the words to songs and prayers.