Description of Program

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that parents are the primary catechists for their children.  Religious Education classes (what used to be called CCD) are offered to assist parents in their role as educators and to help student’s faith become living, conscious and active through the light of instruction. These classes are especially important for students who are not attending a Catholic School. For information on Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo (CSGK), click here.

We maintain a program sponsored by St. Joseph and St. Thomas More Parishes in Kalamazoo.  Religious Education classes are from September through May and are held on Sunday mornings from 10:10 AM to 11:10 AM (English) and from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM (bilingual: Spanish/English) in various buildings on St. Joseph Church property.  Classes are offered for students in preschool through high school, up to the age of 18, including sacramental preparation for First Penance (also known as Confession or Reconciliation), First Reception of Eucharist (or First Communion), and Confirmation.

Registrations form can be printed here:

Religious Education Registration Form (English and Spanish)

Religious Education Schedule (English and Spanish)

Religious Education Tuition Form (English and Spanish)

Families with children who have not been baptized, but are of school age, should enroll these children in Religious Education classes as soon ar possible and contact
Sr. Mary Catherine Fodrocy 343-6256 x 108, to discuss the preparation for Baptism

We also offer Vacation Bible School in the evening during a week (usually) in June following the end of the school year. 

Families with students who are unable to attend the Sunday morning classes can contact Patty Haley 343-6356 x 110 to discuss alternatives. Special classes for sacramental preparation are sometimes held in the evening, depending on need.

Parishioners offer assistance as catechists, classroom aides for Religious Ed classes, and volunteers for special events. Click here for more information.

Often Asked Questions

Q.  “What does CCD stand for?” and “Where did it come from?” 

A.  According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, CCD stands for Confraternity of Christian Doctrine.  Its history goes back to the year 1562 when it was begun as "An association established at Rome in 1562 for the purpose of giving religions instruction." Today, the word “Catechesis” is often used in religious literature.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that “Catechesis is an education in the faith of children, young people and adults which includes especially the teaching of Christian doctrine imparted, generally speaking, in an organic and systematic way, with a view to initiating the hearers into the fullness of Christian life."

Q.  How do I sign my child up to receive a sacrament? 

A.  Our program requires a two year process for all students in sacramental preparation.  This means that a year of class study is required before the year of receiving the sacrament. To register for a sacramental preparation class, please complete the normal registration form. We also need a copy of your child's baptismal certificate if they were not baptized here at St. Joseph's, Kalamazoo.

Q. My child attends a Catholic school and is scheduled to receive a sacrament this year. Where will they receive the sactrament?

A. The policy of St. Joseph Parish is to expect that the students of the of the Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo (CSGK) who belong to St. Joseph Parish will receive the sacraments in their home parish, along with the Religious Education Students.

If you have qny questions please feel free to contact Patty Haley, the Coordinator of Religious Education at 343 6256 x 110.