The Diocese of Fort Wayne – South Bend has developed Catechetical Curriculum Guidelines based upon the directives of the 2005 National Directory for Catechesis. Because the aim of Catechesis, according to Pope Paul II is “to bring each person into union and intimacy with Christ” there must be the engagement of the mind and heart as these guidelines direct. Practical and interactive life application and prayer assist in this process of engaging and forming the whole person. The teachers in school assist the parents in providing practical applications, prayer experiences, and community worship at Mass. Through the curriculum guidelines, each grade level has a different goal, but one builds upon the other. 

Kindergarten

God the Creator and Holy Family 

Grade One

God gives His Son, Jesus 

Grade Two

Preparation for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Eucharist 

Grade Three

Understanding the Church 

Grade Four

The Ten Commandments 

Grade Five

The Seven Sacraments 

Grade Six

The Old Testament 

Grade Seven

Three units: three of the tasks of Catechesis:

• Christological approach to New Testament (Creed)   (following Old Testament in Grade Six)
• Confirmation Preparation (Sacraments)
• Prayer

Grade Eight

Three units: the other three of the six tasks of Catechesis:

• Morality
• Community
• Missionary Spirit and Church History

Our Sunday Visitor I Am Special is used in Kindergarten.  Sadlier We Believe are the texts used in Grades 1 to 5. St. Mary's Press Catholic Connections: Middle School Handbook is used in Grades 6-7.  St. Mary's Press The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth is used in Grade 8.  Additional Resources will be posted as they come available.