Religious Education at St. Joseph

The Joy of Faith Formation

What a gift it is to see children grow in friendship with Jesus and love for His Church. In partnership with parents—the first teachers of the faith—our parish RE program helps children encounter Christ in Scripture, prayer, and the Sacraments, and learn what it means to be His disciples in daily life.

Ages K–1: Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)

• When: Select Sundays, 8:30–10:00 a.m.
  
  
• A prayerful, hands-on approach that helps young children know Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
  
  
• Next steps: Please complete and return the required forms (see Registration & Forms below).
  
  

Grades 2–3: Sacramental Preparation (First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion)

• Reconciliation Formation focuses on God’s mercy in Confession.  Reconciliation prep students will have a mandatory retreat
• Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist.  First Holy Communion/Confirmation prep students will have a mandatory retreat, Mass rehearsal, and Confirmation Mass.
  
  
• See Calendar for mandatory retreat and  Mass rehearsal dates.
  
  
• Note: Dates may adjust; we will notify you in advance.
  
  
  

Grades 4–6: Growing as Disciples

• Deepening our faith through Scripture, prayer, and the life of virtue.
  
  
• Continued formation for children who have received First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

RCIC/Older Children Seeking Baptism or Full Initiation

• For children and teens who need Baptism, First Holy Communion, or Confirmation outside the usual ages.
  
  
• Requirements are case-by-case; we will accompany your family with care.
  
  

Schedule, Drop-Off & Pick-Up

• Calendar: Please click here see the RE Calendar for the full year schedule 
  
  
• Drop-Off: In the Church.
  
  
• Pick-Up: At your child’s assigned classroom (room numbers announced closer to start).
  
  

Parent Formation (Required)

• Because parents are the primary educators of the faith, we offer mandatory Parent Formation during Tuesday RE.
  
  
• Fall: Two session options, each with 5 meetings. Please attend one of the two sessions.
  
  
• Spring: Details announced later.
  
  

Registration & Forms

• Registration Form: Complete for each child.
  
  
• Photo Release (optional): If opting out, return the form with your decision written on the back and signed.
  
  
• Food Permission Slip: Note all allergies (which child, severity) whether or not you opt out.
  
  
• Payment Plan/Scholarship (optional): Submit the application with your registration folder.
  
  

Tuition & Payment

• Pay at the parish office, or via the online payment link.
  
  
• If you need a payment plan or scholarship, please submit the optional form.
  
  

Volunteers Welcome

• We love partnering with parishioners who want to serve.
  
  
• Fill out the Volunteer Interest Form; it simply indicates openness—you can still decide later.
  
  

Questions or Contact

• Valerie Tucker • vtucker@StJoePhx.org
  
  
• Please invite friends and families who may be interested—all are welcome.