PSR (Parish School of Religion)

The Parish School of Religion (PSR) is an extension of the educational mission of Saint Ambrose Catholic Church, and serves to support parents in the spiritual development and faith formation of their children. Growing in faith means living a life centered on Christ through active participation in Sunday liturgy (Mass), the Sacraments and generous service to others. Saint Ambrose PSR is committed to provide the best possible faith formation experiences for your child. Children with strong faith and values do better in school and make for happier homes. We offer a variety of programs to support parents in their role as primary educators in the ways of our Catholic faith. Registration is required for the various PSR programs. Catechists and Assistants work together to create engaging and enriching learning activities. They are volunteers who give of their time and talents because of their love of God’s children and desire to share their faith. In all PSR programs, all adults are required to fulfill all diocesan VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children requirements, including background checks, VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children training course and reading and acknowledging the Policy for the Safety of Children and the Standards of Conduct in Ministry.

Classroom PSR, Grades 1-5: Sessions are scheduled approximately 3 times each month throughout the school year. Classes are led by catechists and assistants. Classes include textbook material and activities to reinforce the topic. Students and their parent(s) participating in this program are expected to participate in all family-centered PSR events and grade level activities throughout the year. This fosters both parental involvement and connection with our faith community. Classes are offered on Saturday mornings (9:00-10:30 am), Monday evenings (6:30-8:00 pm) and Wednesday afternoons (4:30-6:00 pm).

Family Home School PSR, Grades 1-8: In this PSR option, parents are responsible for covering textbook material and discussing the topics with their children as they learn Catholic teachings on a weekly basis, similar to PSR. Families participating in this program, along with their at-home studies, are expected to participate in all family centered PSR events and grade level activities throughout the year to foster a connection with our parish community. Parents participate in three meetings throughout the year for training and support as they serve as their child’s catechist.

Junior High PSR & Youth Ministry – ABLAZE: Grades 6, 7 and 8: PSR Sessions for junior high students are held during all three PSR sessions (Monday evenings 6:30- 8:00 pm, Wednesday afternoons 4:30-6:00 pm and Saturday mornings 9:00-10:30 am). Young teens gather for instruction and special activities. Small group discussions take place in mixed grade level groups of approximately 10 students. Learning experiences include social events to build friendships within our parish family and foster a sense of connection to the parish in our young teens. Service events introduce young teens to the many various ways that we can serve our Lord as we serve others. Parents are invited and encouraged to help serve as table leaders, chaperones and assist with supervision, especially at social events.

Rite of Christian Initiation adapted for Children: This program is for those students who are 7 years old or older and have not yet celebrated the Sacrament of Baptism. Students prepare for Baptism, First Reconciliation and First Eucharist in these classes before entering regular PSR classes. This preparation process may take 1 or 2 years depending upon sacramental preparation needs of the student and family.

Sacramental Preparation: Students typically prepare for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist during their second grade year. Confirmation students are usually prepared during their ninth grade year. Information on these sacramental preparation programs can be found in the PSR office. Enrollment in 1st grade PSR is expected prior to enrollment in Sacramental Preparation for First Eucharist and enrollment in both 7th & 8th grade PSR is expected for enrollment in Sacramental Preparation for Confirmation.

CONTACT: Brandan Bizzi at 330.460.7325 or BBizzi@StAmbrose.us