G.I.F.T. (K-5th Grade)

The deadline for enrollment in the 2017-2018 GIFT program was July 31.

Growing in Faith Together (G.I.F.T.), our parish program for elementary school children, supports parents in their effort to fulfill the promise they made at their child’s baptism: “to bring him/her up to keep God’s commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbor.” We seek to help parents pass the Catholic faith on to their children and make it come alive in their everyday life.

During the 2017-2018 school year, classes will take place on Sundays, in the IHM Elementary School building, during one of two time slots:

            Morning Session: 10:15-11:15 a.m.
            Evening Session: 6:15-7:30 p.m.

Led by trained catechists, children learn in grade-level groups of 15-20 students, while parents participate in concurrent adult faith formation offerings. Our lessons come from the bilingual Finding God curriculum from Loyola Press (www.loyolapress.com).


Parent Expectations
As we partner with you, these few things will ensure our success!

1. Ensure that children attend class regularly and on time.
2. Communicate any special needs or circumstances that may affect your child within the classroom.
3. Participate in the adult faith formation offerings taking place while your child is in class.
4. Be an active part of your children’s learning by reading parent handouts, newsletters and becoming familiar with online resources for your child: http://www.findinggod.com
5. Participate at Mass on a weekly basis.
6. Check the parish bulletin, the parish website, and the e-weekly (e-mail newsletter) for updates and changes to the G.I.F.T. Calendar.
7. Pray individually and as a family for your community.
8. Alert us of any changes to your address (including e-mails) or phone numbers.

At least one year of attendance at the GIFT program or home study is a prerequisite for beginning the preparations for First Holy Communion.

Immaculate Heart of Mary offers the Home Study Program for those families who prefer to offer their children, grades K-12, formal religious education within the home. Families desiring the Home Study program must be committed to spending weekly time in lesson preparation and discussion with their child, following the Loyola Press curriculum.

Home Study Requirements:

1. One or both parents must meet with the Director of Faith Formation at the beginning of year
2. Student must turn in five unit assessments during the year
3. Family must participate in service, stewardship, and spiritual activities
4. Family must attend a family interview for year-end assessment in May