Sixth grade students study the Bible in this year’s religion program. Using the We Believe, We Are God’s People text, students learn about God through his creation and through Divine Revelation handed down through the Bible and Tradition. Beginning with a look at the book of Genesis, God is seen as Creator of the universe, source of all life and of human beings who are made in God’s image and likeness. Students learn about the entering of evil in the world; God’s promise to send a Savior, God’s covenant; the Patriarchs our ancestors in faith; the Israelites in Egypt, Moses, and God helping his people; God’s people in Canaan; Samson, Ruth, Samuel, Saul, David, Solomon and the building of the Temple. Next, students learn about the tribes of Israel and Judah; the prophets proclaiming God’s faithfulness and bringing hope to the people; the Exile and the Journey home. Finally, we learn about the Covenant fulfilled in Jesus; Jesus, Redeemer and Savior, the beginning of the Church and the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Students in the sixth grade learn more about the Liturgical year, Ordinary Time, Advent, Christmas, Lent, Holy Week and Easter. They study the lives of several saints and learn about the communion of saints. Students learn about Mary; celebrate special feast days and pray the “Living Rosary” in May.
The school worships together at Mass each month on Holy Days and on particular Saint’s Feast Days. Sixth grade students assist at a monthly Mass as readers, servers, gift bearers and choir members. We gather together for prayer on occasions of thanksgiving, celebration, sadness and joy. Each morning, we begin our day with prayer, scripture reading, and respect for our country led by students in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades.
As the family of St. Mary School, an important goal is to help students to be aware of the opportunities to follow Jesus’ call to serve others and encourage them in this endeavor. Some of the ways that the sixth grade has done this is by coordinating the school wide recycling of paper; donating food monthly to St. Anne’s Food Pantry; helping children in transitional housing at Christmas; contributing to a children’s coat drive; and helping Tsunami victims and Hurricane victims.
Through instruction, worship, prayer, and service, we hope that each child will grow closer to our loving God.