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St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church Religious Education Program RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION FOR CHILDREN (RCIC) 2019-2020 "Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought."

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St. Andrew the ApostleCatholic Church

Religious Education Program

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION FOR CHILDREN (RCIC)

2019-2020

"Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought."-St. John Paul II

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Dear Parents, September 2019

Welcome to St. Andrew the Apostle Sacramental Prep/RCIC Religious Education Program. We are happy to help your students prepare for their missed sacraments.

At St. Andrews our program is called Sacramental Prep and we have level one and level two. Throughout the handbook you will see the program referred to by its official name, Rite of Christian Initiation for Children (RCIC). RCIC classes are made up of students in various grades who need to prepare for the sacraments of Baptism, Penance, Holy Eucharist, and/or Confirmation. The RCIC Program is open to students in grades two through nine. Students in grades ten or higher MUST enroll in our parish Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) Program, which is run through the parish office. Children who have not been baptized will receive the Sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil Mass. RCIC is a one year program for students in grades 2-6 preparing for Baptism, Penance, and/or Holy Eucharist. Baptized students who are also preparing for Confirmation will attend RCIC or Sacramental Prep for two years.

This booklet explains all the requirements necessary for your child to receive their missed sacraments. It is essential that the children and parents collectively participate in the preparation process. By working together with the catechists and priests of the parish, we can be assured that the students are properly educated and well disposed to receive the sacraments.

Please review the material in the handbook and mark the deadline dates on your calendar. Your cooperation in accurately completing the forms and returning them to the religious education office in a timely manner is greatly appreciated.

Please work with your children to learn their prayers and the material covered in their Basic Catholic Questions booklet. The greatest prayer is the Mass. It is so important for your family to attend Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation. Mass attendance is vital to the formation of your child. Each child will take a midterm and final exam, and will be interviewed in the second semester to determine their readiness for the reception of the sacraments. We cannot assure that each child enrolled will automatically receive the sacraments at the end of the year. It is key for the faith to be lived in the home, and for you to work with and pray with your children.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. It is my pleasure to serve you.

In Christ, Patty Laing Director of Religious Education [email protected] | 703-817-1773

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TABLE OF CONTENTS St. Andrew Mission Statement and Parent’s Prayer...............................................................................3/4Parent and Student Roles Penance – A Fact Sheet for Parents..............................................................4/5Requirements for Children Receiving Baptism, First Penance and First Holy Communion..................6Sacrament of Initiation Record Form ....................................................................................................... 7Penance – A Fact Sheet for Parents ............................................................................................................ 8Examination of Conscience........................................................................................................................ 10Rite of Reconciliation................................................................................................................................. 11First Penance Retreat Schedule................................................................................................................. 12First Penance Permission Slip ................................................................................................................... 13First Holy Communion – A Fact Sheet for Parents..................................................................................14Preparation................................................................................................................................................. 16

Interviews................................................................................................................................................ 16

Dress Code............................................................................................................................................... 16

Photography............................................................................................................................................ 17

FHC Practice and Mass Classroom Assignment Chart............................................................................17First Holy Communion Record Form....................................................................................................... 18Attach copy of child’s Baptismal Certificate to formFirst Holy Communion Retreat Schedule................................................................................................. 19FHC Retreat Permission Slip .................................................................................................................... 20

Confirmation Requirements Checklist...................................................................................................... 21Parents Duties............................................................................................................................................. 23Confirmation Candidate Duties................................................................................................................. 24Guidelines for Choosing a Sponsor............................................................................................................ 25Guidelines for Service Projects.................................................................................................................. 26Service Hours Materials........................................................................................................................ 28-33Guidelines for Saint Report....................................................................................................................... 33Service Hour Form .................................................................................................................................... 34Experience Forms.................................................................................................................................. 35-38Letter to Pastor........................................................................................................................................... 39Confirmation Interview.............................................................................................................................. 40Sponsor Promise......................................................................................................................................... 41Letter of Intent........................................................................................................................................... 42Confirmation Record Form....................................................................................................................... 43Handbook Acknowledgement.................................................................................................................... 44

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IMPORTANT DATESFirst Penance Retreat, Sat., Jan. 25, 2020, 8:30 am-12:30 pmFirst Penance, Sat., Feb. 1, 2020, 10 amEaster Vigil Rehearsal, Tues., Apr. 7, 6 pmEaster Vigil Mass, Sat., Apr. 11, 8:30 pm | Please Arrive No Later Than 7:30 pmFirst Holy Communion Retreat & Rehearsal, Sat., Apr. 25, 2020, 8:30 am - 1 pmFirst Holy Communion Mass & Reception, Sat., May 2, 2020, 11 am | Students 9:45 am

ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE RELIGIOUS EDUCATIONMISSION STATEMENT

The mission of St. Andrew’s Religious Education Program, which is rooted in and derived from the Roman Canon of the Mass, is simply and always to hold and teach the Catholic Faith that comes to us from the Apostles. We acknowledge the one Teacher, Jesus Christ, and remain steadfastly united to the Catholic Church He founded on the rock of St. Peter. Therefore, we expect unwavering fidelity to the Successor of Peter from all catechists and assistant catechists who volunteer in this program.

At St. Andrew’s Parish, each child is seen as created in the image and likeness of God and as a reflection of His goodness. Realizing that God has created all things for His glory and our benefit, the challenge of being a living witness to the Gospel is central to the development of each student. Therefore, at St. Andrew’s, an understanding of Jesus and His message is essential to knowing Him, loving Him, and serving Him always.

The core elements listed below form the foundation of St. Andrew’s Religious Education Program. With these elements we seek to cultivate the hearts, minds, and souls of our students to their fullest potential.

The Parents are recognized and respected as the primary educators of their children The dignity of the individual, as a unique child of God, is nurtured and developed The doctrine of the Catholic faith is presented in its fullness and entirety as both

knowledge to be learned and a life to be lived The Sacramental life is central to developing and sustaining the Catholic Faith The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and the Real Presence of our Lord in the Eucharist is the

“source and summit” of our Faith The promotion of frequent reception of the Sacraments of Penance and Holy Eucharist The Gospel values which teach moral life as expressed in the Ten Commandments,

Beatitudes, Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy are professed, cultivated and practiced The Word of God is revered Our Blessed Lady’s example, as the first disciple of Jesus, is our model The virtues are fostered and practiced in everyday life Reading and studying the lives of the saints as an example for our lives The importance of prayer is stressed as a source for growth in the spiritual life. Holy

Hours, Rosaries, Novenas, personal prayers, and Mass attendance are stressed and encouraged

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A PARENTS’ PRAYERO God the Father of mankind, who hast given unto me these my children, and committed them to my charge to bring them up for Thee, and to prepare them for eternal life: help me with Thy heavenly grace, that I may be able to fulfill this most sacred duty and stewardship. Teach me both what to give and what to withhold; when to reprove and when to forbear; make me to be gentle, yet firm; considerate and watchful; and deliver me equally from the weakness of indulgence, and the excess of severity; and grant that, both by word and example, I may be careful to lead them in the ways of wisdom and true piety, so that at last I may, with them, be admitted to the unspeakable joys of our true home in heaven, in the company of the blessed angels and saints. Amen.

O Heavenly Father, I commend my children to Thy care. Be Thou their God and Father; and mercifully supply whatever is lacking in me through frailty or negligence. Strengthen them to overcome the corruptions of the world, whether from within or without; and deliver them from the secret snares of the enemy. Pour Thy grace into their hearts, and strengthen and multiply in them the gifts of Thy Holy Spirit, that they may daily grow in grace and in knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ; and so, faithfully serving Thee here, may come to rejoice in Thy presence hereafter. Amen.

PARENTS’ ROLE Parents are the primary religious educators of their children. The home is the domestic Church and the place where a child first experiences the Catholic faith. You teach primarily by the example you set. It is extremely crucial for children to experience the love of God in their homes. The religious education office intends to work in partnership with parents in order to assist them in living their vocations as educators of their children. This program should merely complement, not replace, the catechesis (religious education) children should receive in the home.

Pray as a family Attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation Regular participation in the Sacrament of Penance (for parents and children who have made their

first Penance) Bring your children to RCIC (CCD/Sacramental Prep) classes and retreats, etc. on time each week

(5 minutes early is best since our classes leave to go to church for meditation) Review homework and help them with memorization of prayers and Basic Catholic Questions

(Parents should NOT do student’s homework, however, they should sign and review completed homework for completion and accuracy)

Meet sacramental requirements on time (providing sponsor eligibility letter, permission forms, etc.)

A life of prayer begins in the home. We strongly urge you to reinforce a life of prayer at home by praying the prayers that the students learn in class. While certain families develop customs of spontaneous prayer, it is crucial for students to learn fixed prayers in order to more fully participate in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church

FAITH FORMATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR PARENTSWe cannot love what we do not know, and we cannot give what we do not have. The Apostle Peter tells us to always be prepared to defend and explain the faith to those who ask (1 Peter 3:15). Christian adults have a special calling and mission to be the salt and light of the world. Please consider learning more about the faith.

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CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players is a multi-part film series that illumines a handful of saints, artists, mystics, and scholars who not only shaped the life of the Church, but changed the course of civilization. Discover the places where St. Thomas Aquinas (1/13) lived, learned, and wrote. Visit the countryside where St. Francis (10/28) gathered a group of friars and revived the Church. See the places where St. Catherine of Siena (4/27) ministered and prayed. Trek through England to where Bl. John Henry Newman (2/10) and G.K. Chesterton (11/18) left their mark and sparked an English Catholic revival. Marvel at the extraordinary art of Michelangelo (12/16), from his David statue in Florence, to the Pietà at St. Peter's, to the Sistine Chapel. Experience how St. Augustine’s (9/23) famous “restless heart has become the paradigm for spiritual seekers across the ages. Journey with Bishop Barron as he uncovers the incredible life of St. Benedict (3/16), a ‘cave dwelling kid’ who changed the course of western civilization. One MONDAY a month, 5:30-7 pm, in the Padre Pio Room – don’t miss this amazing series!

ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE BOOK CLUB meets once a month on Tuesday morning from 10 am – noon in the JPII room. The book club selections focus on the lives of the saints. Lively discussion, refreshments, and insight into those who already wear the crown of sainthood, help to inspire us to fulfill our calling! Cost: $10/book. This year we will focus on the saints whose statues are above St. Andrew’s altar.

ST. ANDREW’S BIBLE STUDY will focus on studying the Bible Timeline for 2019-20. Beginning in September they meet in Msgr. Hannan Hall every Wednesday night from 7:15 – 9:00 pm. (The bulletin will have more details on Bible Study registration information.)

CATHOLIC APOLOGETICS: LUNCH, LAUGHTER & LEARNING (formerly MSOT) is held once a month on Sunday afternoons at St. Andrews. This year the topic is Defending the Faith. The group gathers for lunch at 1:30 pm and a priest gives the talk beginning at 2 pm, followed by Q & A, then the rosary. Cost: $135/year (covers cost of lunch.) Topics this year include 9/29 The Existence of God, 10/20 The Authenticity of Scripture, 11/17 Grace, Merit, & Justification, 12/15 The Church & the Papacy, 1/26 Purgatory, 2/23 The Church’s Teachings on Marriage, 3/22 The Church & Science, 4/26 The Eucharist, 5/17 Mary & Marian Doctrines.

STUDENTS’ ROLE

Students are expected to be punctual and prepared for class. Students should arrive no earlier than 15 minutes prior to the start of class. Each week, students should bring their textbooks, writing utensils, and completed homework assignments. Students should conduct themselves in a manner appropriate to a classroom environment.

Pray – “The sweetest time of the day is when you pray. Why? Because you’re talking to the One who loves you the most!” Build your relationship with Our Lord.

Attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation Complete RE homework assignments Work on learning Basic Catholic Questions (BCQs) each week

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REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILDREN OVER THE AGE OF 7 WHO HAVE NOT BEEN BAPTIZED

RECEIVING SACRAMENTS OF BAPTISM, FIRST HOLY COMMUNION AND PENANCE

IMPORTANT DEADLINES Record Form for Sacraments of Initiation – due December 10, 2019 Permission Slip First Penance Retreat – due December, 10, 2019 Permission Slip First Holy Communion Retreat – due March 31, 2020

IMPORTANT DATES (See RE Calendar for full schedule)

Parent Orientation Meeting – Friday, September 13, 7 pm Church & Parish Hall First Day of Class – Tuesday, September 17, 6 pm – Meet in the Church Parish Holy Hour and Rosary – Tuesday, October 15, 7 pm – Church Midterm Review – Tuesday, January 7 Midterm – Tuesday, January 14 First Penance Retreat – Saturday, January 25, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm – Parish Hall Easter Vigil Rehearsal (Students/Parents/Godparents/Sponsors) – Tuesday, April 7,

6 pm – Church Easter Vigil (Students/Parents/Godparents/Sponsors) – Saturday, April 11, Mass

begins at 8:30 pm, please arrive no later than 7:30 pm First Holy Communion Retreat & Rehearsal and First Confession Opportunity –

Saturday, April 27, 8:30 am – 1 pm (your children should attend) Final Exam Review – Tuesday, May 5 First Holy Communion Mass and Reception – Saturday, May 2 Final Exam – Tuesday, May 12 Final Class/Awards Ceremony – Monday, May 18 Corpus Christi Procession – All students who made their First Holy Communion are

invited to lead the Corpus Christi Procession following the 12:30 pm Mass on June 14

Students who are over the age of 7 and have not been Baptized will be prepared to receive all the Sacraments of Initiation. This means that they will be baptized and receive the Sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil Mass.

It is the parent’s responsibility to make sure your child makes their First Penance after they have been baptized at the Easter Vigil Mass.

You will be required to meet with the pastor prior to the date of baptism.

Please understand that this does not mean that your son/daughter has graduated from religious education. They must return for further instruction in the faith.

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SACRAMENT OF INITIATION RECORD FORM (Forms must be turned in by December 10, 2019)

Child’s full name: ________________________________________________

Street Address: __________________________________________________

City: _____________________ Zip Code: _______________________

Date of Birth: ______________ Place of Birth: ___________________

Confirmation saint name: __________________________________________

Father’s full name:

_______________________________________________

Religion of Father: _______________________________________________

Mother’s full maiden name: ________________________________________

Religion of Mother: ______________________________________________

Sponsor’s full name: ______________________________________________

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Only one Godmother or Godfather

Religion of Sponsor: _____________________________________________Must be a Confirmed Catholic

registered in a Catholic Church.If married, must be in a marriage

recognized by the Catholic Church.

Please attach the sponsor eligibility letter from the sponsor’s pastor.

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PENANCE - A FACT SHEET FOR PARENTSThe Sacrament of Reconciliation or “Penance”

“Those who approach the Sacrament of Penance obtain pardon for God’s mercy for the offenses committed against Him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labors for their conversion.” (LG 11)

What are the names given for this Sacrament?

It is called the Sacrament of Conversion because it makes sacramentally present Jesus’ call to conversion, the first step in returning to the Father from whom one has strayed by sin.

It is called the Sacrament of Penance, since it consecrates the Christian sinner’s personal and ecclesial steps of conversion, penance, and satisfaction. (CCC 1423)

It is called the Sacrament of Confession, since the disclosure or confession of sins to a priest is an essential element of this sacrament. In a profound sense it is also a “confession”- acknowledgment and praise - of the holiness of God and of His mercy toward sinful man.

It is called the Sacrament of Forgiveness, since by the priest’s sacramental absolution God grants the penitent “pardon and peace.”

It is also called the Sacrament of Reconciliation, because it imparts to the sinner the love of God who reconciles: “Be reconciled to God.” He who lives by God’s merciful love is ready to respond to the Lord’s call: “Go; first be reconciled to your brother”. Matthew 5:24 (CCC 1424)

Suggestions for Parents:

You began preparing your child for the Sacrament of Penance long ago. Every time your child has seen or experienced loving forgiveness in your home, he or she has understood a little more about God’s forgiving love. With the assistance of a catechist and two assistants, your child has begun a special preparation for the Sacrament of Penance. The preparation will focus on how God is a loving Father who forgives us if we just humble ourselves, repent, amend our lives, and return to Him in the sacraments.

Discuss this sacrament with your child. Remember to do more listening than talking during these discussion times. Your child may express feelings to you at home that may not have been mentioned in class. Be attentive and your child will make you aware of his/her thoughts. Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s catechist, the religious education office, or one of the parish priests if you need help or advice in handling any of these questions or concerns.

Help your child learn the Act of Contrition by simply saying it together once a day before dinner, or at bedtime. Also, help your child with a short examination of conscience (see pg. 10)

Take your child along as an interested observer when you go to Confession. It is a powerful example for a child to see his/her parent enter the confessional! NB: All classes will visit the confessional prior to their first confession to get the students accustomed to the new environment.

Role play “going to confession” - don’t use real sins when role playing; make up some false sins. Take turns with your child being the priest and the penitent. Discuss the two possible options for going to confession; face-to-face or behind a screen. Help your child decide which way he/she wants to confess his or her sins.

Teach your child that to sin is to say “No” to God. Make sure your child understands the

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difference between a mistake or accident, temptation, and sin by talking about some typical situations which illustrate these occurrences.

Above all, relax and remember that this will be the first time your child will receive the Sacrament of Penance. It is the first step in a lifetime during which your child’s appreciation of the sacrament will grow and deepen. Please bear in mind that it is YOUR responsibility to make sure that your child is provided the opportunity to go to confession on a regular basis (a good rule of thumb is once a month).

WHY DO WE NEED CONFESSION?Sin. We are all familiar with it. The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines sin as “an offense against God, a rupture of communion with Him. At the same time, it damages communion with the Church (those around us).” (CCC 1440)

Jesus teaches that there are less serious and more serious sins. We call less serious sins venial sins and more serious sins mortal sins. What are the distinctions?

In order to commit a mortal sin, three conditions must be met:

1. The person must be committing a gravely evil act or thought (i.e. violation of the Ten Commandments, precepts of the Church, or sins against moral teaching of the Church).

2. The person must have knowledge that the act or thought is gravely evil. If a person has a doubtful conscience, they may not act until they have gathered sufficient information to make a rightly ordered decision.

3. The person must intend the act committed or the thought. It is important here to distinguish between temptations and willed thoughts.

If any one of these conditions is not met, a mortal sin has not been committed. The sin would generally be considered a venial sin. However, it should be noted that it is possible to commit a deliberate venial sin. These sins are of special concern since they lessen a person’s resistance to commit more serious sins. Even if the act or thought is not a grave evil, a person may still know that the act or thought is still wrong and that they intend to perform that act or thought anyway. All this describes sins of commission. However, it should be noted that we are also liable for sins of omission – good acts or obligations that we failed to do. In certain circumstances, such sins can be mortal sins.

Although you are only obliged to confess your mortal sins, any sin may be confessed. Of course, no one may receive Holy Communion if they have committed mortal sins that have not been absolved by a priest through the Sacrament of Penance. A person is obligated to make a good confession at least once a year (Easter Duty), although it is generally recommended that one makes a good confession at least once a month, or as necessary.

One must also consider the social effect of every sin. Even the most private sin affects the entire Church and society at large since we all live in community and engage in self-definition by our acts and thoughts.

While the above information is difficult to express to second graders, it may be helpful for parents as guidelines when instructing children.

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EXAMINATION OF CONSCIENCE(for First Penitents)

Did I miss Mass ON PURPOSE on a Sunday or Holy Day? (Do not confuse this with your parents not taking you to Mass. You only have the obligation to ask them to take you).

Was I late for Mass through MY own fault?

Did I laugh, talk, or play in church?

Was I disobedient to anyone looking after me?

Did I talk back to anyone taking care of me?

When I had a chance to do something nice, did I choose not to do it?

Did I fight with someone?

Did I use angry words?

Did I cheat on school work or tests?

Did I try to “get even” with someone?

Did I use bad words?

Did I steal something?

Did I tell any lies?

Did I call anyone bad names?

Was I mean to other people?

Did I tease someone unkindly?

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THE RITE OF RECONCILIATION

Child:

1) In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

2) Bless me, Father, for I have sinned.

3) This is my First Confession. (After your first confession, this phrase becomes, “It has been________(how long, one month, 6 months, etc) since my last confession”.

4) These are my sins: (Name your sins).

5) For these and all the sins of my whole life, I am truly sorry.

Priest:

1) Gives words of advice or suggestions.

2) Gives child penance (often this will be prayers to be said in the Church after Confession).

3) Priest asks child to say an Act of Contrition.

Child:

An Act of ContritionO my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because of Thy just punishments; but, most of all, because they have offended Thee, my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love, I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.

OR

An Act of Contrition that you have memorized.

Priest: Gives absolution (the prayer which removes one’s sins).

Child: Thank you, Father.

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FIRST PENANCE RETREAT SCHEDULEReturn permission slip by December 10, 2019

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 20208:30 AM TO 12:30 PM

RETREAT SCHEDULE

8:30 am Registration

8:45 am Mass

9:20 – 11:45 am Sessions I – V & snack

11:50 am Restroom break

12:00 pm Rosary (outside weather permitting)

12:30 pm Dismissal

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First Penance Retreat Permission Slip/Release FormDEADLINE TO REGISTER IS DECEMBER 10, 2019

My consent is hereby given as the parent of _________________________ to attend/participate in THE FIRST PENANCE RETREAT in MSGR. HANNAN HALL at ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE PARISH on January 25, 2020. I understand that I am to drop off my child on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. and return by 12:30 pm for pick-up. I do hereby agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless the chaperones, St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, and the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, VA from any and all liability for any claim or injury or loss sustained by my child's participation in the above event. In the event of a medical emergency, I hereby give permission to those in charge to request necessary medical treatment for my child, in the event that I cannot be reached at the below listed phone numbers.

Parent’s Name__________________________________

Signed (parent/guardian) __________________________________________ Date ____________________________

Emergency Numbers:Cell: (Mom)___________________ (Dad)_________________________

Home number _______________________________________________

My child is allergic to the following medications:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Other allergies: ______________________________________________

My child is currently taking the following prescribed drugs:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

My child’s birth date: _________________________________________

Family physician: ____________________________________________

Phone numbers: ______________________________________________

STUDENT AGREEMENTI agree to follow these expectations of behavior from the time I arrive at St. Andrew’s until the time I am picked up by my parents at the end of the event. I understand that if I do not follow these expectations I will be given a warning, and depending upon the severity of my misbehavior, I may be asked by the Religious Education Coordinator to call my parent/guardian.

I agree to behave in a Christian manner which means:

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I will respect myself.I will respect other people (no fighting, no bad words).I will respect and follow any direction given by the Religious Education Director and Chaperones. I understand that they are acting for my best interests.

I agree to come ready to enjoy a great event!Youth signature ___________________ Date _________

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FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONFACT SHEET FOR PARENTS

“Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children.”“Parents have a grave responsibility to give good example to their children.”“Through the grace of the Sacrament of Matrimony, parents receive the responsibility and privilege of evangelizing their children.” (CCC 2223, 2224, and 2225)

The celebration of the Mass is the center of the whole Christian life. All other liturgical rites and all the works of the Christian life are linked to, flow from, and have as their end the Eucharistic celebration.

Parents have a right and duty to be intimately involved in preparing their children for First Holy Communion. Catechesis aims to help parents grow in their understanding, love, and appreciation of the Eucharist and to participate readily in catechizing their children. You are encouraged to read the four Gospel accounts of the Last Supper, as well as, John Chapter 6 with your child. Parents have an awesome and serious duty and obligation to care for the minds, bodies, and souls of their children. As a parent, you have the primary role in the sacramental process for your child. You will help your child grow in faith as you prepare him or her for the reception of the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist. Your attendance at Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation is vital! Even more importantly, your interest, example, witness, and prayers make a difference in your child’s decision to receive the Sacrament and the Faith with an open heart as he or she continues to grow in the Faith.

With this in mind, we remind you that the role of a religious education program can only be secondary to the parents. We encourage you to do all you can, and we promise to do the best we can to aid and guide the sacramental preparation for your child.

THE SACRAMENT OF THE EUCHARISTFour requirements are absolutely essential for a child to receive the Eucharist:

He or she must understand the difference between ordinary bread and the Eucharist.

He or she must have a sincere desire to receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist.

He or she must truly believe that it is our Lord whom he or she is receiving.

And of course, he/she must be free from mortal sin - - - in a state of grace.

To participate more fully in the Eucharist, however, a child must continue to grow in the following ways:

Understanding that the Eucharist:· is a memorial of the Lord’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection, and that His

Sacrifice on the Cross and Resurrection become present in every celebration· is a meal at which Christ nourishes us with His Word and His Body and Blood so that we

have greater love of God and neighbor· reminds us of our unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ· anticipates the banquet of God’s kingdom

Knowledge of the Last Supper and the Jewish roots of the covenant meal.

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Awareness of the Father’s love, of the call to participate in Christ’s sacrifice, and of the gift of the Spirit.

Familiarity with the main events of Jesus’ life (the Rosary can help here).

Faith that Jesus is present in the Eucharist: not only in the priest, in the Christian assembly, or in the reading of His Word, but in a unique and most excellent way under the appearance of bread and wine, which after the Consecration, become the Body and Blood of Jesus.

Desire to visit and pray to Jesus apart from Mass.

TIPS FOR TALKING TO YOUR CHILD ABOUT THE HOLY EUCHARIST

Be sure to talk sincerely to your child about your experience of Jesus. It is essential that the child understands the importance of having a real relationship with Jesus. If you do not speak to your child about your love of the Eucharist, even your best example may appear to them to be empty formalism.

You are a model for your child. Remember that the reverence with which you accept Jesus in the Eucharist will be the example that will be followed by your child. No matter how much your child’s catechist stresses “how to receive reverently”, if this is not being done by his/her family, the lessons will be quickly forgotten. How you dress to enter God’s house matters. When you are leaving home for Mass will your neighbor know you are going to Church or do they assume you are going to the grocery store or a ball game based on your attire?

When you attend Mass EACH Sunday and Holy Day, help your child to fully participate in the Mass. Remember, if you do not sing or recite the responses, neither will your child.

Take your child to Church to visit Jesus in the most Blessed Sacrament. Explain how Jesus is waiting in the tabernacle for us to come to Him, how He loves us to come and just be with Him. Let the children know that we can tell Jesus everything: our joys, our pains, even ask for help in our studies. This also would be a good chance to practice appropriate Church behavior with your child while showing him/her your own love of the Lord. Practice the Sign of the Cross, prayers, genuflecting, etc.

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PREPARATIONFirst Holy Communion record form and baptismal certificates for all First Holy Communicants

must be turned in by due date: December 10, 2019.

Interviews – All First Communicants will be interviewed by the Director of Religious Education in the weeks following the midterm exam in January. This is designed as a verbal assessment to ensure that each child is prepared to make their First Penance and First Holy Communion.

First Penance Retreat – The First Penance retreat is designed to help prepare the students to be spiritually ready to make a good first confession.

Sacrament of Penance – If your children have not yet been Baptized they will NOT make their first Penance until after they have been Baptized at the Easter Vigil Mass. It is the Parent’s Responsibility to make sure their children receive the Sacrament of Penance as soon as possible following their Baptism at the Easter Vigil Mass. Our parish offers Confession on Thursday 5:30-6:30 pm and on Saturday 3:30-4:30 pm.

First Holy Communion Retreat – All First Holy Communicants are required to attend the First Holy Communion retreat to help them spiritually prepare to receive Jesus with love and reverence for the first time. The retreat form is located in this handbook or may be downloaded from our website. www.standrewsreligioused.org.

First Holy Communion Practice – The practice will be held immediately following the retreat at 12:30 pm on April 25. Parents, please proceed to the church at 12:30 pm. The rehearsal will start promptly at 12:30 pm. It is important that at least one parent remain in the church during the practice time so that they may receive any last minute information and be able to answer any questions their child may have when they return home. Once the practice is complete the children will recess into Msgr. Hannan Hall. You may pick up your child from their teacher at that time.

First Holy Communion Mass - Please take your child to the assigned classroom (page 17) no later than 9:45 am on Saturday, May 2 prior to taking your place in the church. During this time, the photographers will be taking class pictures, so please be sure your child arrive on time. Please DO NOT stay in the classroom with your child. If you wish to have individual pictures taken of your child the photographer will be available from 9:00 - 9:45 am in Msgr. Hannan Hall. After Mass, please DO NOT take your child from the procession line. Your child is to be picked up from their assigned classroom. He/she will receive his First Holy Communion certificate after Mass in the assigned classroom.

Dress Code - Special clothes highlight a special occasion. However, you are reminded to stress the coming of Jesus as the most important part of the day. Keeping this in mind, any modest dress clothes are appropriate. Most girls in our parish wear the traditional white dress and a veil for the head. Please ensure that the shoulders are covered, either with sleeves or a sweater/bolero jacket. The head MUST be covered in some form in imitation of a bride of Christ. Please DO NOT let the students wear nail polish, tennis shoes or sneakers, and girls are not to wear pants or slacks. If your daughter has a purse or gloves, we ask that you keep these items with you during the First Holy Communion Mass so that they are not lost. The boys have chosen a variety of dress including suits, tuxes, blazers or dress sweaters, and dress slacks. Ties MUST be worn and tennis shoes or sneakers are not permitted. Whatever you decide to do, please keep your child and family focused on what is really important about the day: Jesus’ giving of Himself because of His great love for each one of us. He wants to be with us always!

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Photography - No pictures should be taken in the church either during or after Mass. No one should distract the children from Jesus by taking pictures especially when the children are receiving our Lord for the first time. After the children have received our Lord they are in the prayerful mode of thanking Jesus for the great gift of His Body. If you must take pictures you must not use flash and you must take them from your seat or from the balcony. DO NOT STAND UP OR STAND IN THE AISLE. After Mass, please use the beautiful outside natural environment to take pictures with the priests and your family.

Class Pictures – The photographer will have photo forms available on the day of the First Holy Communion Mass. Pictures will be mailed directly to your home. The children MUST be at St. Andrew’s at 9:45 am before the First Holy Communion Mass to be photographed. Meet in the assigned classrooms upon arrival.

Reception: A reception will immediately follow Mass in Msgr. Hannan Hall after the Easter Vigil, First Holy Communion Mass and Confirmation Mass.

Corpus Christi Procession: All First Holy Communicants are invited to attend, dressed in their First Holy Communion attire, and lead the parish Corpus Christi procession on Sunday, June 14 at 1:30 pm

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PRACTICE &FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS SCHEDULE

The First Holy Communion Rehearsal is on Saturday, April 25, 2020 at 12:30 pm.

St. Andrew’s date for the First Holy Communion Mass is Saturday, May 2, 2020 at 11:00 am. Please check the table listed below for your child’s assigned classroom.

Children are expected to arrive at 9:45 am for the First Holy Communion Mass. Class pictures will be taken one hour before the Mass begins. If you arrive late, you will miss your class picture.

If you wish to have individual pictures taken with the photographer they will be available on a first come, first serve basis from 9:00-9:45 am in Msgr. Hannan Hall.

CATECHIST CLASS DAY-TIME MEET IN ROOMMr. Spicer Monday 5:30 pm Room 109Mrs. Dean Tuesday 6 pm Room 108Mrs. Dean Homeschool & Other Parochial Schools Room 108Mr. Hernandez | Mrs. Heintz Sacramental Prep 1 & 2 Room 107Mrs. McCullough St. Andrew the Apostle School Room 9

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FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONRECORD FORM

Year One - Due December 10, 2019Please Print

Name as it appears on the baptismal certificate:

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Street Address: ______________________________________________________________________

City: ________________________________________ Zip Code: ___________________________

(_____)_____________________ ______/______/_____________________________Phone # Date of

Birth Place of Birth (City, State)

Father’s full name: ___________________________________________________________________

Mother’s full maiden name: ____________________________________________________________

This form WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED if a complete mailing address is not given.Addresses from foreign countries are required.

Church of Baptism: ___________________________________________________________________

Street Address: ______________________________________________________________________

City: _____________________ State: ____________ Zip Code: _____________________

Country: _______________________________________

____________________________________Date of Baptism

Please attach a copy of the student’s baptismal certificate to this form.

St. Andrew baptism: The date of baptism will be used for verification.

A translation is required if the baptismal certificate is in another language.

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FIRST HOLY COMMUNION RETREAT SCHEDULEYear One - Return permission slip by March 31, 2020

The First Holy Communion Retreat and Rehearsal will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2020 from 8:30 am to 1 pm. There is no cost to attend the retreat. There is a $25.00 surcharge for anyone who is not a

registered member of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish.

8:30 am Registration

8:45 am Mass

9:20 – 11:45 am Sessions I-V & snack break

11:50 am Restroom break

12:00 pm Rosary (outside weather permitting)

12:20 pm Brown scapular installment

12:30 pm Rehearsal

1:00 pm Dismissal

Retreat Schedule

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First Holy Communion Retreat and Rehearsal Permission Slip/Release FormDEADLINE TO REGISTER IS MARCH 31

My consent is hereby given as the parent of _________________________ to attend/participate in THE FIRST HOLY COMMUNION RETREAT in MSGR. HANNAN HALL at ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE PARISH on April 25, 2020. I understand that I am to drop off my child on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. and return by 12:30 p.m. for rehearsal and pick-up. I do hereby agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless the chaperones, St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, and the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, VA from any and all liability for any claim or injury or loss sustained by my child's participation in the above event. In the event of a medical emergency, I hereby give permission to those in charge to request necessary medical treatment for my child, in the event that I cannot be reached at the below listed phone numbers.

Parent’s Name__________________________________

Signed (parent/guardian) __________________________________________ Date ____________________________

Emergency Numbers:Cell: (Mom)___________________ (Dad)_________________________

Home number _______________________________________________

My child is allergic to the following medications:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Other allergies: ______________________________________________

My child is currently taking the following prescribed drugs:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

My child’s birth date: _________________________________________

Family physician: ____________________________________________

Phone numbers: ______________________________________________

STUDENT AGREEMENTI agree to follow these expectations of behavior from the time I arrive at St. Andrew’s until the time I am picked up by my parents at the end of the event. I understand that if I do not follow these expectations I will be given a warning, and depending upon the severity of my misbehavior, I may be asked by the Religious Education Coordinator to call my parent/guardian.

I agree to behave in a Christian manner which means:

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I will respect myself.I will respect other people (no fighting, no bad words).I will respect and follow any direction given by the Religious Education Director and Chaperones. I understand that they are acting for my best interests.

I agree to come ready to enjoy a great event!Youth signature ___________________ Date _________

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ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILDREN 7TH GRADE AND ABOVE FOR CONFIRMATION

CONFIRMATION IS A TWO-YEAR PROCESSIf your child has not been Baptized, they will receive Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil Mass.

If your child has been Baptized, they will receive First Penance and First Holy Communion in year one and Confirmation in year two during the parish celebrations of each sacrament.

YEAR ONE 7TH Grade Retreat Confirmation Letter of Intent Sponsor Interview and Promise Saint Report Confirmation Record Form Baptismal Certificate

YEAR TWO Service Hours Form Service Hours Experience Forms Letter to Pastor Sponsor Eligibility Letter 8th Grade Retreat Gown order form needed only if you intend to participate in

8th Grade Confirmation Mass

CONFIRMATION REQUIREMENTS CHECKLISTUnder the direction of Arlington Diocese’s Bishop Burbidge, it is our firm desire that all Catholics know and live the Catholic Faith to the fullest. The students will receive a Confirmation Study Guide which includes questions Bishop Burbidge has provided with three main focus areas: Faith, Worship and Witness, as well as reflections for the candidates to consider. The Confirmation Test will be taken from points in the Study Guide. Students MUST pass the Confirmation tests with a grade of 70% or better. Begin studying early!Reminder: Students must be able to write the Apostles’ Creed.

Faith ~ God is revealed to us through Sacred Scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church.Worship ~ We encounter God through prayer and the Sacraments both as the Body of Christ and as individuals who have been baptized into life in Christ.Witness ~ We live in the world as disciples of Christ who are called to share the Good News through service and evangelization.

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2018-2019 1 ST YEAR (7 TH GRADE) REQUIREMENTS Date Turned into the RE Office

o Letter of Intent – due Oct. 16, 2018, pg. 42 _______________o Confirmation Record Form – due Oct. 16, 2018, pg. 43 _______________

Baptismal Certificate or Profession of Faith must be attachedo Attend Confirmation 7 Retreat on Sat., Oct. 20, 2018 _______________o Sponsor Interview – due Feb. 12, 2019, pg. 40 _______________o Sponsor Promise – due Feb. 12, 2019, pg. 41 _______________o Saint Report – due Mar. 12, 2019, Guidelines, pg. 33 _______________o Confirmation Pre-Test – May 7, 2019 _______________

2019-2020 2 ND YEAR (8 TH GRADE) REQUIREMENTS

o Service Hour Form – due Sep. 24, 2019, pg. 34 _______________o Service Hour Experience Forms (4) – due Sep. 24, pgs. 35-38 _______________o Letter to the Pastor – due Oct. 22, 2019, pg. 39 _______________o Sponsor Eligibility Letter – due January 28, 2020 _______________o Attend Confirmation 8 Retreat – March 28, 2020 _______________o Confirmation Test – May 12, 2020 _______________

2019-2020 1 ST YEAR (7 TH GRADE) REQUIREMENTS Date Turned into the RE Office

o Letter of Intent – due Oct. 22, 2019, pg. 42 _______________o Confirmation Record Form – due Oct. 22, 2019, pg. 43 _______________

Baptismal Certificate or Profession of Faith must be attachedo Attend Confirmation 7 Retreat on Sat., Oct. 19, 2019 _______________o Sponsor Interview – due Feb. 11, 2020, pg. 40 _______________o Sponsor Promise – due Feb. 11, 2020, pg. 41 _______________o Saint Report – due Mar. 24, 2020, Guidelines, pg. 33 _______________o Confirmation Pre-Test – May 12, 2020

2020-2021 2 ND YEAR (8 TH GRADE) REQUIREMENTS

o Service Hour Form – due Sep. 29, 2020, pg. 34 _______________o Service Hour Experience Forms (4) – due Sep. 29, pgs. 35-38 _______________o Letter to the Pastor – due Oct. 27, 2020, pg. 40 _______________o Sponsor Eligibility Letter – due January 26, 2021 _______________o Attend Confirmation 8 Retreat – tbd _______________o Confirmation Test – tbd _______________

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PARENTS’ DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES“Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children. Parents have a grave responsibility to give good example to their children. Through the grace of the Sacrament of Matrimony, parents receive the responsibility and privilege of evangelizing their children. Parents have the mission of teaching their children to pray and to discover their vocation as children of God.” (CCC 2223, 2225, and 2226, respectively, on the role of the parent).

As a parent, you have the primary role in the sacramental preparation process for your child. You will help your child grow in the faith as you prepare him/her for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Your attendance at Sunday Mass is vital. Even more importantly, your interest, example, witness, and prayers make a difference in your child’s decision to receive the Sacrament.

REQUIREMENTS:

Prepare your child for the decision to be confirmed through instruction, example, and prayer.

Complete the Confirmation Record Form.

Attach a copy of your child’s baptismal certificate or Profession of Faith form to the Confirmation record form. If your child was validly baptized in another denomination, please provide us with a copy of the Catholic Profession of Faith certificate or First Holy Communion certificate. If you do not have such a certificate, please contact the parish at which your child received First Holy Communion and request that they issue one to you. Parents of candidates who were baptized or made a Profession of Faith at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish do not need to provide us with a certificate. We will contact the parish office for the information.

Assist your child in ensuring all class assignments are completed (including the selection of the Confirmation name, completion of the saint report, and the selection of the sponsor). Please assist the candidate as necessary with the materials presented in the classes. The candidate must take and pass ALL Confirmation related tests administered during their 7th and 8th grade Confirmation preparation period. (See religious education calendar for scheduled dates of tests). A Confirmation pre-test will be given as part of the seventh grade curriculum in their classrooms. The Confirmation test will be administered to 8th Grade students in their classrooms prior to Confirmation. Students MUST pass the Confirmation tests with a grade of 70% or better. If your child has any special learning needs, please advise the religious education office so we may best serve your child and accommodate him/her as necessary.

Ensure your child fulfills the required service hours and attends the mandatory Confirmation retreat. It is important that the service hour requirements and experience forms are completed by the required date. Opportunities to complete these requirements take place at the parish and are assigned by class, as appropriate.

The pastor of St. Andrew’s parish uses a three-tier approach to ensure the faithful are properly instructed to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation; spiritual, intellectual and physical. The physical is accomplished through the faithful completion of ten hours of spiritual or corporal works of mercy; the intellectual is accomplished through the faithful taking and successfully passing of the Confirmation tests; and the spiritual is accomplished through attendance at Confirmation retreats and ten contemplative prayer hours. He deems all three areas to be of grave importance and that each area provides sufficient data to ensure that our students are properly instructed. Students who have a conflict with Confirmation retreats at St. Andrews may attend a different diocesan retreat. It is the parent’s responsibility to find an alternate available retreat. Go to www.arlingtondiocese.org for assistance.

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CONFIRMATION CANDIDATE’S DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

“A candidate for Confirmation who has attained the age of reason must profess the faith, be in a state of grace, have the intention of receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, and be prepared to assume the role of disciple and witness to Christ, both within the ecclesial (Church) community and in temporal affairs.” (CCC 1319, on the responsibilities of the Candidate for Confirmation)

Each candidate, with the help of his/her parents, is responsible for choosing a sponsor. It is recommended that, if possible, one of the baptismal sponsors be the Confirmation sponsor. This choice would express clearly the relationship between Baptism and Confirmation and makes the function of the sponsor more effective.

Confirmation is the last of the Sacraments of Initiation and perfects the baptismal grace. The Confirmed are expected to worship God by taking part in the Mass on Sundays and Holy Days, to receive the Sacrament of Confession often and to receive the Eucharist as often as possible. A confirmed member of the Church is expected to strengthen and support the Body of Christ, the Church, by prayers and good works. Furthermore, the newly confirmed are encouraged to continue their religious studies by attending the High School Youth Group and/or volunteer as an aide for religious education classes. Many students are told that once they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation they no longer are required to attend religious education classes. This is a sad state of affairs. If parents really feel this is necessary they should also consider taking the child out of secular school as well. If an 8th grade education is sufficient for religion (which is for the good of a soul that never dies), it must certainly be sufficient for a secular education in public school (which is for the good of a body that will die). Parents please re-consider your decision if you decide to end your child’s religious education after Confirmation.

REQUIREMENTS: Attend and participate in weekly scheduled Religious Education classes. Students who miss 6 ormore of scheduled classes must retake the course work for that year in the following years’ program.

Select a patron saint’s name as a Confirmation name. Candidates are required to write and submit a report on the chosen saint. We encourage female students to choose a female saint and male students to choose a male saint. See procedures under Guidelines for Saint Report. (page 34)

Participate in the Confirmation retreats. If a candidate does not attend the Confirmation retreats offered at St. Andrew’s parish, he/she must find and attend another Confirmation retreat within the Diocese of Arlington within their seventh grade year and prior to the date of the Confirmation Mass for eighth grade students.

Study for and pass ALL Confirmation related tests administered during the 7th and 8th grade Confirmation preparation period.

Select a sponsor and turn in your Sponsor Interview sheet by indicated date. (see page 26 to ensure the sponsor you wish to select meets the requirements)

Perform a minimum of 20 hours of church service as outlined in this handbook.

Complete the four (4) Service Hours Experience Forms.GUIDELINES FOR CHOOSING A SPONSOR

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“The Catechism of the Catholic Church offers this advice: The Sponsor for Confirmation is one who, fittingly, is a spiritual help to the Candidate” (CCC 1311, on the role of the Sponsor for Confirmation). Sponsors take on a life-long commitment to help their candidates fulfill the obligation for this sacrament. A sponsor should be actively living out the Catholic Faith and serve as a role model for you.

THE FOLLOWING PERSONS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO STAND AS A SPONSOR:

† Persons married outside the Church† Divorced persons who have remarried outside the Church† Persons co-habitating without the benefit of Catholic marriage† Persons who neglect the religious education of their children† Persons who themselves have not received the Sacrament of Confirmation† Persons who have not completed their sixteenth year† Individuals who neglect to fulfill their “Easter Duty” . . . that is Confession and Communion at least

once a year during the Easter season† Those who give public scandal in any way† Persons who habitually miss Sunday Mass† In the event that the Sponsor cannot attend the Confirmation Ceremony in person, a proxy, may

stand in place of the Sponsor. If the Confirmation Candidate has a proxy, the Religious Education Office MUST be notified in advance.

A parent may NOT be a sponsor, though they may present their child to the bishop in the event of a last minute unexpected change of plans.

†††IN ADDITION TO THE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

Please be advised of the following policies in place at St. Andrew’s parish:

APOSTLES’ CREEDo Students at St. Andrew’s parish MUST know and be able to write or recite the “Apostles’ Creed” prior to receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation.

DRESS CODE o The students will be wearing red robes over their clothing.Boys: Please ensure that boys wear neckties. They are NOT to wear jeans or tennis/athletic shoes.Girls: Please wear dresses (no spaghetti straps). Dresses should be at or below the knees and shoulders must be covered. Do not wear tennis/athletic shoes or slacks/pants of any type. Sponsors: PLEASE BE SURE YOUR ATTIRE IS MODEST. If you have to ask yourself the question of whether your attire is modest or not, it probably isn’t!

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEOGRAPHY Please do not block the view of others or stand in the church aisles to take pictures or videos. Thebishop will be in Msgr. Hannan Hall after the Confirmation Mass for photo opportunities. Please DO NOT stand in the sanctuary (altar area - including the steps) at any time before, during, or after the Mass to take pictures.

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GUIDELINES FOR SERVICE PROJECTS

Jesus served those in need not to feel good about Himself, but to make a connection with each person. It is in this way that we come to understand that all of us are “one” in the “Body of Christ”. Service is not just a job to be done to fulfill a requirement, but is a life-long commitment to care for others as Christ cares for us. All 20 hours of service must be for the Catholic Church. The hours will be divided:

a. 7th grade class service projects (5 hours awarded)Each class will be assigned a specific service project to address the needs of a specific ministry. Examples: Little Sisters of the Poor Nursing Home, Poor Clare Sisters, Diocesan Seminarians, Guadalupe Free Clinic, etc. The seventh grade teacher and assistant will work with the students to complete this service by assigning each student a specific responsibility associated with the project. The teacher will also be responsible for signing the student’s service form for this project when complete.

b. Religious Education Service (5 hours awarded)Each student will be responsible to sign up via the Religious Education Office for various options available to complete this part of their service. Sign up is on a first-come first-served basis.

You may also sign up to assist the House of Mercy located in Manassas. To find out volunteer times please call them at 703-659-1636 or visit their website at www.houseofmercyva.org.

Students should complete these hours while in the 7th grade or in the summer prior to their 8th grade year.

Students who are on-going members of the Junior Legion of Mary, Parish Choir, Boy or Girl Scouts, Trail Life, Altar Boys, or those participating in a Life Chain, Pro-Life March, or Pro-Life Walks or other like organizations, may use these hours in place of the Religious Education Service listed. Check with the Religious Education Office.

c. Contemplative (Prayer) Service Hours Ten contemplative service hours will be required to complete the student’s preparation for Confirmation.

1. Praying before our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament for one hour equals two (2) hours of service. Your parents will sign your booklet once this requirement is completed.

2. Praying the Stations of the Cross at St. Andrew the Apostle during Lent is two (2) hours of service. Your parents will sign your booklet once this requirement is completed.

3. Attending the Parish Holy Hour and Rosary in October is two (2) hours of service. Check-in with any RE teacher on that evening.

4. Praying the Novena for the Poor Souls in Purgatory (page 29) in the month of November is two (2) hours of service. Your parents will sign your booklet once this requirement is completed.

5. Praying the St. Andrew’s Novena during Advent is one (1) hour of service. (page 30). Your parents will sign your booklet once this requirement is completed.

6. Praying the Most Holy Rosary (5 decades) is one (1) hour of service. Your parents will sign your booklet once this requirement is completed.

A total of 20 service hours for the Catholic Church is needed to meet your Confirmation requirements. Ten (10) service hours from 7th grade Confirmation class service projects and participation in religious education services (or other specific services listed above) and ten (10) contemplative service hours from the list above.

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Why must all Service Hours be for The Catholic Church?Confirmation is the sacrament through which the Holy Spirit comes to us in a special way and enables us to profess our faith as strong and perfect Christians and soldiers of Jesus Christ. The sacramental grace of Confirmation helps us to live our faith loyally and to profess it courageously. After Confirmation one should continue to study the Catholic faith even earnestly than before, so to obtain the ability to explain and defend the faith. The Catholic laity should then participate in the work of the Catholic Church (apostolate of the hierarchy). The work of the Catholic Church is to win souls for Christ by bringing them into the Church He founded. In order to prepare Confirmation candidates for their lifelong work of bringing souls to Christ and the Church He founded (The Catholic Church). All service hours must be completed for the Catholic Church.

We applaud those individuals volunteering for groups not associated with the Catholic Church. It is very kind to volunteer for activities in your local community such as: tutoring/mentoring children, volunteering at the public library, working the concession stand at soccer games, etc. However, these activities do not directly promote the cause of the Catholic Church, the salvation of souls. For Confirmation, we are interested in developing the Catholic community. When people work together friendships are often formed, these friendships generate a sense of community within a parish. Once a sense of community is established, the members of the Church can look upon one another as a support in their quest for attaining heaven. Participating in the ministries of the Catholic Church helps students to appreciate the Catholic faith, as well as to learn more about it.

Our hope for the Confirmation Candidates is that they remain good Catholics their entire life. Those students (Confirmation candidates) that remain faithful to attending Mass every Sunday and receiving the Sacrament of Penance regularly are usually the ones active in parish ministries, or those with an active prayer life. By participating in a variety of parish activities while preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation, one can better discern God’s plan for how they are called to support the Catholic Church. The fifth precept of the Church is to contribute to the support of the Church. This means that one should not only support the Church financially (when able), but also support the Church by volunteering to help ministries that have been organized in the Church. Supporting the Catholic Church also involves prayer and spiritual growth. As each member of the church grows spiritually, the Church is strengthened through an outpouring of God’s grace. Prayer for the Catholic Church and for all to see God’s truth is imperative in today’s society.

There are numerous opportunities to earn service hours. †††

MYSTERIES OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARYJOYFUL

(Monday & Saturday)Annunciation

VisitationBirth of ChristPresentation

Finding in the Temple

SORROWFUL(Tuesday & Friday)

Agony in the GardenScourging at the PillarCrowning with ThornsCarrying of the Cross

Crucifixion

GLORIOUS(Wednesday & Saturday)

ResurrectionAscension into Heaven

Descent of the Holy SpiritAssumption

Crowning of Our Lady

LUMINOUS(Thursday)

Christ’s BaptismWedding at Cana

Proclamation of the KingdomTransfiguration

Institution of the Eucharist

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SAINT ANDREW NOVENA

Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold. In that hour, vouchsafe, O my God! to hear my prayer and grant my desires, through the merits of Our Savior Jesus Christ, and of His Blessed Mother. Amen

It is a pious custom to recite the above prayer fifteen times a day from the feast of St. Andrew, on November 30th, until Christmas.

NOVENA OF PRAYERS FOR THE POOR SOULSO most gentle Heart of Jesus, ever present in the Blessed Sacrament, ever consumed with burning love for the poor captive souls in Purgatory, have mercy on the souls of Thy departed servants. Be not severe in thy judgments, but let some drops of Thy Precious Blood fall upon the devouring flames. And do Thou, O Merciful Savior, send Thy holy angels to conduct them to a place of refreshment, light and peace. Amen.

V. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.R. And let perpetual light shine upon them.V. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful

departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.R. Amen.

A NOVENA FOR THE POOR SOULS

SundayO Lord God Almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Blood which Thy divine Son Jesus shed in the

Garden, deliver the souls in Purgatory, and especially that one which is the most forsaken of all, and bring it into Thy Glory, where it may praise and bless Thee forever. Amen

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory Be. Eternal rest, etc.

MondayO Lord God Almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Blood which Thy divine Son Jesus shed in His

cruel scourging, deliver the souls in Purgatory, and among them all, especially that soul which is nearest to its entrance into Thy glory, that it may soon begin to praise Thee and bless Thee forever. Amen

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory Be. Eternal rest, etc.

Tuesday

O Lord God Almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Blood of Thy divine Son Jesus that was shed in His bitter crowning with thorns, deliver the souls in Purgatory, and among them all, particularly that soul which is in the greatest need of our prayers, in order that it may not long be delayed in praising Thee in Thy glory and blessing Thee forever. Amen.

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory Be. Eternal rest, etc.Wednesday

O Lord God Almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Blood of Thy divine Son Jesus that was shed

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in the streets of Jerusalem, whilst He carried on His sacred shoulders the heavy burden of the Cross, deliver the souls in Purgatory, and especially that one which is richest in merits in Thy sight, so that, having soon attained the high place in glory to which it is destined, it may praise Thee triumphantly and bless Thee forever. Amen.

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory Be. Eternal rest, etc.

ThursdayO Lord God Almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Body and Blood of Thy divine Son Jesus,

which He Himself, on the night before His Passion, gave as meat and drink to His beloved Apostles and bequeathed to His holy Church to be the perpetual Sacrifice and life-giving nourishment of His faithful people, deliver the souls in Purgatory, but most of all, that soul which was most devoted to this Mystery of infinite love, in order that it may praise Thee therefore, together with Thy divine Son and the Holy Spirit in The glory forever, Amen.

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory Be. Eternal rest, etc.

FridayO Lord God Almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Blood which Jesus Thy divine Son did shed

this day upon the tree of the Cross, especially from His sacred hands and feet, deliver the souls in Purgatory, and particularly that soul for whom I am most bound to pray, in order that I may not be the cause which hinders Thee from admitting it quickly to the possession of Thy glory, where it may praise Thee and bless Thee for evermore. Amen.

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory Be. Eternal rest, etc.

SaturdayO Lord God Almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Blood which gushed forth from the sacred side

of Thy divine Son Jesus in the presence of and to the great sorrow of His most holy Mother, deliver the souls in Purgatory, and among them all, especially that soul which has been most devout to this noble Lady, that it may come quickly into Thy glory, there to praise Thee in her, and her in Thee, through all the ages. Amen.

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory Be. Eternal rest, etc.

On Every Day of the Novena

V. O Lord, hear my prayer;R. And let my cry come unto Thee.

O God, the Creator and Redeemer of all the faithful, grant unto the souls of Thy servants and handmaids the remission of all their sins, that through our devout supplications they may obtain the pardon they have always desired, Who livest and reignest world without end. Amen.

Eternal rest, etc.

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NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRITBegin by reciting the following prayer...

O Holy Spirit, Divine Consoler! I adore you as my True God. I bless You by uniting myself to the praises You receive from the angel and saints. I offer You my whole heart, and I render You heartfelt thanks for all the benefits You have bestowed and do unceasingly bestow upon the world. You are the author of all supernatural gifts and who did enrich with immense favors the soul of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, I beseech you to visit me by Your grace and Your love, and grant me the favor I so earnestly seek in this novena...

State your request here...

O Holy Spirit, spirit of truth, come into our hearts: shed the brightness of your light on all nations, that they may be of one faith and pleasing to You. Amen.

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

Recite the prayer of the appropriate day...

DAY ONEO Holy Spirit, bestow upon us Your seven holy gifts. Enlighten our understanding that we may know You. Give us wisdom that Your will may be clear to us and that we may accept it. Grant us the gift of counsel that we may always perceive what is right. Fortify us that we may always be capable of fulfilling Your Divine Will. Inspire us with the spirit of learning that we may be able to penetrate more deeply into the truths that You have revealed. Let our hearts be steeped in the spirit of childlikeness that we may bring You joy. Let us have proper fear of God that we may never grieve You or wander from the path of goodness. Give us the fullness of Your gifts that we may glorify You. Look with compassion upon us, O Holy Spirit, and grant us the favor we seek in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

DAY TWOO Holy Spirit, make me faithful in every thought, and grant that I may always listen to your voice, and watch for Your light, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You, and ask You by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced feet of Jesus, looking at His Five Wounds, trusting in His Precious Blood, adoring His opened side and stricken heart, I implore You adorable Spirit, helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace, now and always, and grant us the favor we ask in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

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DAY THREEHeavenly Father, You have called me to be a member of the mystical body of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and to be a temple of the Holy Spirit. I ask You to give me these gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, that I may understand the follies of this world; understanding, that I may grasp more fully the meaning of my existence and the purpose of all things in the world; counsel, that I may always choose the proper way; fortitude, that I may remain faithful to You under the pressure of temptation.; piety, that I may revere You in all I do, think or say; fear of the Lord, that should the motive of love fail me, I may quickly be awakened to the eternal consequences of my deeds. Visit me by Your grace and Your love and grant me the favor I so earnestly seek in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

DAY FOURO God, Who today by the light of the Holy Spirit did instruct the hearts of the faithful, give us, by the light of the same Holy Spirit, a love for what is right and just and a constant enjoyment of His comforts. Pray, Holy Spirit, that I may strive to learn more of my faith; that I may ever be conscious that reason in all its human magnificence is capable of grasping, but a glimpse of the reality that is God. Pray that I may accept as the motto of my life: "All for the greater glory of God" and grant me the favor I so earnestly seek in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

DAY FIVECome, O Spirit of sanctity, from the glory of heaven and send forth the radiance of Your light. Father of all the poor, light and peace of all hearts, come with Your countless gifts. Consoler in desolation; refreshment full of loveliness, come dear friend of my soul. In weariness send repose; breathe gently cool refreshing breeze; console the desolate who weep alone. Light of Beatitude, make our hearts ready; come enter our souls. Without Your grace, man stands alone; he cannot be good or sure. Cleanse what is soiled; heal what is wounded; moisten what is arid. Bend the stubborn will; warm the cold heart; guide the wandering footstep. O Holy Spirit, we beg You to give us grace through Your sevenfold power and grant me the favor I so earnestly seek in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Give us merit for the present, and one day beatitude when we have finished our earthly journey. Amen.

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

DAY SIXO Father in Heaven, I beg You to send the Holy Spirit. May Your Holy Spirit remind me when I am apt to forget Your law. Your love, Your promises. May Your Holy Spirit strengthen my memory to recall frequently Your sanctity, omniscience, wisdom, and goodness, faithfulness, and love. May Your Holy Spirit encourage me when I am slothful; strengthen me when I am weak; enlighten me when I no longer can help myself. Breathe into me, O Holy Spirit, that I may do what is holy. Stir me, that I may love what is holy. Strengthen me, that I may preserve what is holy. Protect me, Holy Spirit, that I may never lose what is holy and grant me the favor I so earnestly seek in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

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Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

DAY SEVENCome, Holy Spirit, creator of all things: come visit our hearts with Your power. Fill with grace, friendly guest, the hearts which You have created. You are called the Consoler, gift from the hand of God, source of life, light, love, and flame, highest good. You are the pledge of sevenfold grace, finger of the Father’s hand, promised us by Him, and You make our tongues speak the truth. Cast light on our senses, pour love into our hearts. Grant our weak bodies strength that they may never grow weary of doing good and grant me the favor I so earnestly seek in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Keep the enemy far from us, give us peace always, let us willingly follow in Your footsteps that we may be far removed from sin. Grant that through You we may grow in knowledge of the Father and of the Son, and that we may ever strongly believe in You, the Spirit of both. Praise and honor be forever to the Father on the highest throne, in the risen Son of God, in the Consoler. Amen.

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

DAY EIGHTO Holy Spirit, life and light of the Church, give us thoughts higher than our own thoughts, and prayers better than our own prayers, and powers beyond our own powers, that we may love and live, imitating Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Come to us, Holy Spirit, come with the Father and the Son and grant me the favor I so earnestly request in this novena...

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Vouchsafe to dwell within our souls and quickly make our hearts Your own. Quench in us the fires of hate and strife, the wasting fever of the heart. From perils guard our feeble life and to our souls Your peace impart. Let voice and mind and heart and strength confess and glorify Your name and let the fire of charity burn bright and other hearts inflame. Amen.

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

DAY NINEO Lord, Holy Spirit, grant me sight to see the wondrous promise of divine love; insight to see my own weakness; delight in Your divine presence in my soul which You have made Your temple through sanctifying grace. I pray, O Holy Spirit, that I may be not doubting; that I be spared the pain of being alone without trust or hope in Christ; that my prayer may always be "My Lord and my God!" I pray that I may acquire a sense of retreat to prayer and recollection at various times in my daily life; for prayer is the bond that joins us to Christ. I pray that I may be aware of the physical needs of the poor and that I may share what I can with them in the charitable works of the Church. I pray, O Holy Spirit, that You will in Your mercy grant me the favor I have sought in this novena.

State your request here... if it be in accordance with Your Holy Will. Amen

Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.

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GUIDELINES FOR SAINT REPORTYear Two - DUE MARCH 12, 2019Year One – DUE March 24, 2020

Each Confirmation Candidate is required to write a Saint Report featuring the saint whose name they have chosen and is listed on the Confirmation Record Form. Hopefully, the candidate has chosen a saint that they can emulate as they grow in the Faith. They may select a certain saint who parallels their life situation or one after whom they are named. The candidate should not just pick a saint because they like the name; they should read about the saint and learn why the saint’s life was heroic in virtue. It is encouraged, but not mandatory that girls choose a female patron saint and boys choose a male patron saint. Our patron saints assist us through our lives so please prayerfully consider selecting a saint that will inspire and guide you towards your ultimate goal of sanctity.

Reports must be:

* Handwritten in legible writing (no typed papers will be accepted; if you have questions please contact the RE office)

* Be at least five paragraphs

* Have a cover page which includes the name of the saint, name of the Confirmation Candidate, name of the teacher, and date and time of class.

* Have biographical information and should include the following:

+ Date and place of birth and death+ Description of saint’s service to God and others+ Feast day of the saint+ Symbol of the saint, if available+ Patronage of saint+ Devotions to saint+ Why candidate chose the saint

* Bibliography (tell where information about this saint was retrieved, i.e. Butler’s Lives of the Saints, Catholic Encyclopedia, etc. (DO NOT USE WIKIPEDIA AS A REFERENCE). As a suggestion, you may use sites such as: www.ewtn.com/saintsholy or www.newadvent.org/cathen

* The Reports may not be plagiarized (copying someone else’s work) or written by parents.

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SERVICE HOURS FORMYear Two - DUE SEPTEMBER 24, 2019Year One – DUE SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

Service Hours Form and the four (4) Experience Forms must be stapled and turned in together on the above DUE date.

Name of Candidate: _____________________________

Date Nature of Service Hours Verification of Service Hours

Parish Holy Hour & Rosary2

Signature of DRE/Admin Assistant

Poor Souls Novena1

Signature of Parents

Saint Andrew Novena2

Signature of Parents

Class Project5

Signature of 7th Grade Teacher or Assistant Teacher ONLY

Religious Education Service Or Other Service For Catholic Church 5

Signature of person who is in charge, i.e. choir director, altar boys coordinator

Private Holy Hour 2 Signature of Parents

Stations Of The Cross 2 Signature of Parents

Recitation Of The Most Holy Rosary (Five Decades)

1 Signature of Parents

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CLASS PROJECTEXPERIENCE FORM

Year Two - DUE SEPTEMBER 24, 2019Year One – DUE SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

NAME OF CANDIDATE: _________________________________________

RE Class: Monday | Tuesday | Sacramental Prep 2 | Homeschool | Seton

PROJECT & LOCATON:__________________________________________

Reflection:Tell us about your service experience answering each of the following questions: What was it like? What did you learn? How does this project qualify as service? Include how you followed Jesus’ example in performing this service.

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CHURCH SERVICEEXPERIENCE FORM

Year Two - DUE SEPTEMBER 24, 2019Year One – DUE SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

NAME OF CANDIDATE: _________________________________________

RE Class: Monday | Tuesday | Sacramental Prep 2 | Homeschool | Seton

PROJECT & LOCATON:__________________________________________

Reflection:Tell us about your service experience answering each of the following questions: What was it like? What did you learn? How does this project qualify as service? Include how you followed Jesus’ example in performing this service.

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STATIONS OF THE CROSSEXPERIENCE FORM

Year Two - DUE SEPTEMBER 24, 2019Year One – DUE SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

NAME OF CANDIDATE: _________________________________________

RE Class: Monday | Tuesday | Sacramental Prep 2 | Homeschool | Seton

PROJECT & LOCATON:__________________________________________

Reflection:Tell us about your service experience answering each of the following questions: What was it like? What did you learn? How does this project qualify as service? Include how you followed Jesus’ example in performing this service.

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ALL OTHER PRAYER PERIODSEXPERIENCE FORM

Year Two - DUE SEPTEMBER 24, 2019Year One – DUE SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

NAME OF CANDIDATE: _________________________________________

RE Class: Monday | Tuesday | Sacramental Prep 2 | Homeschool | Seton

PROJECT & LOCATON:__________________________________________

Reflection:Tell us about your service experience answering each of the following questions: What was it like? What did you learn? How does this project qualify as service? Include how you followed Jesus’ example in performing this service.

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CONFIRMATION LETTER TO THE PASTORYear Two - DUE OCTOBER 22, 2019Year One – DUE OCTOBER 27. 2020

Name: _________________________ Teacher: __________________________________

RE Class: Monday | Tuesday | Sacramental Prep 2 | Homeschool | Seton

Using the space below, write Father a letter explaining the following:- What you have done to prepare for Confirmation- Your Confirmation saint, why you chose him/her- Your sponsor’s name, why you chose him/her- Why you want to be Confirmed

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CONFIRMATION INTERVIEW Be specific and do not respond with “yes” or “no” answers.

Please use another sheet of paper to complete answers.Year Two - DUE FEBRUARY 12, 2019Year One – DUE FEBRUARY 11, 2020

Confirmandi’s Name:______________________________________________

Sponsor’s Name:__________________________________________________

1) How do you pray?

2) Who has been influential in the growth of your faith?

3) Have you ever had to defend your faith? When? How?

4) Are you active in your Church? How?

5) What do you find to be the most rewarding part of your faith?

6) Do you still do community service? What?

7) Have you sponsored anyone else? Who and why? How have you helped them? (Be specific)

8) Do you have any childhood memories of your faith, church, or holy days of obligation? What are some of them?

9) What Catholic devotions have helped you pull through the tough time(s) in your life?

10) Is there a time that you did not practice your faith? What were the circumstances?

11) What do you find to be the most rewarding part of Mass?

12) Is there anything that you don't understand or don’t agree with concerning matters of faith? What and why?

13) How do you see God working in your life?

14) How do you see God working in "my" life?

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SPONSOR PROMISEYear Two - DUE FEBRUARY 12, 2019Year One – DUE FEBRUARY 11, 2020

As a Confirmed Catholic who participates regularly in the sacramental life of the Church, I am willing to take time to help

(Print full name of candidate)

understand the joys and obligations of Confirmed Catholics. I promise to communicate regularly with this young person and be the support and guide that the Church expects all sponsors to be. I understand that I must obtain a “Sponsor Eligibility Letter” from my parish of membership indicating that I am eligible to be a Sponsor because I am a registered Catholic who participates in Sunday Mass weekly, by receiving the Eucharist as often as possible and Penance as necessary, and by being open to the Word of God as revealed in Scripture and taught by the Roman Catholic Church.

Sponsor’s Signature: ________________________________________________________

Print Sponsor’s Full Name: ___________________________________________________

Date: _____________________________________________________________________

Please return to:

St. Andrew the ApostleOffice of Religious Education 6720B Union Mill RoadClifton, VA 20124

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CONFIRMATION LETTER OF INTENTYear Two - DUE OCTOBER 16, 2018Year One – DUE OCTOBER 22, 2019

In renewing my baptismal vows, I profess my Catholic Faith in the Creed and renounce Satan. It is my intent in both Faith and practice to embrace the entire law of Christ contained in the Catholic Church; which includes being faithful to the teachings of the Holy Father in regards to issues of faith and morals (i.e. issues such as abortion). I promise to follow the precepts of the Church both now and after Confirmation.

Precepts of the Church

1. To assist at Mass on all Sundays and holy days of obligation.The holy days are: (Jan. 1 – Solemnity of Mary | 40 days after Easter – Ascension Thursday | Aug. 15 – Assumption of Mary | Nov. 1 – All Saints’ Day | Dec. 8 – Immaculate Conception | Dec. 25 – Christmas)

2. To fast and abstain on the days appointed.The Church’s current regulations in the U.S. require fasting and abstinence from meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday; and abstinence from meat on the Fridays during Lent. Every Friday is a day of sacrifice. We are obliged to make a sacrifice every Friday. This could be the traditional practice of abstinence from meat or another sacrifice.

3. To confess our sins at least once a year in the Sacrament of Penance.

4. To receive Holy Communion worthily during the Easter Season.To receive Holy Communion worthily, one must: Observe the Eucharistic Fast of one hour before receiving Holy Communion | Be in the state of grace | Believe that Holy Communion is the true Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

5. To contribute to the support of the Church.

6. To observe the laws of the Church concerning marriage.

As the parent of a Confirmation Candidate, I promise to fully assist in my child’s preparation for the sacrament. I promise that my child will continue to study the Catholic Faith and will regularly attend Mass and receive the Sacrament of Penance before and after Confirmation.

___________________________________________________Confirmation Candidate’s Printed Name

___________________________________________________ ______________________Confirmation Candidate’s Signature Date

__________________________________________________ ______________________ Parent’s Signature Date

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CONFIRMATION RECORD FORMYear Two - DUE OCTOBER 16, 2018Year One – DUE OCTOBER 22, 2019

Please Print

Confirmation saint name: ________________________________________________________________TAKEN FROM YOUR SAINT REPORT

Name as it appears on the baptismal certificate:

_______________________________________________________________________________________

(_____)_____________________ ______/______/_______________________________Phone # Date of

Birth Place of Birth (City, State)

Father’s full name _______________________________________________________________________

Mother’s full maiden name _______________________________________________________________

This form WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED if a complete mailing address is not given.Addresses from foreign countries are required.

Church of Baptism or Profession of Faith*:

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Street Address: _________________________________________________________________________

City: _____________________ State: ____________ Zip Code: ________________________

Country: _______________________________________

____________________________________ _____________________________________________Date of Baptism Date and Church of 1st

Holy Communion

Sponsor’s relationship to Confirmandi: ____________________________________________________

Please attach a copy of the student’s baptismal certificate to this form.

If a child made a Profession of Faith, please attach a copy of the certificate.

St. Andrew baptism: The date of baptism will be used for verification.

A translation is required if the baptismal certificate is in another language.

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Handbook Acknowledgement FormAfter reading the Religious Education RCIC Handbook, we understand our responsibilities

and will comply with all that is stated in the handbook.

Family Last Name: ______________________________________

Email Address: _________________________________________

Student(s) Signature(s):

Student Grade Date

____________________________ _______ __________________

____________________________ _______ __________________

____________________________ _______ __________________

____________________________ _______ __________________

____________________________ _______ __________________

Parent or Legal Guardian’s Signature Date

_______________________________ __________________

Please return this form to the Religious Education Office.