Religious Studies and Spiritual Formation at St. Benedict Catholic School are rooted in our core belief in the importance of the education of the whole child — mind, body, and spirit.
At every grade level, our curriculum carefully follows the framework and standards of the Archdiocese of Mobile in the four major themes of Catholic religious education: Scripture & Christian Life, Sacraments & Worship, Morality & Social Justice, and Christian Faith & Practice.
The spiritual journey begins in Kindergarten, with introduction of key concepts and values. In second grade, students prepare to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion which are celebrated as a class with ceremonies in the spring, after the sacraments have been received in their home parish. Students have the opportunity to participate in school-wide Masses every Friday morning, taking turns in the preparation of the readings and rituals of these Masses.
The values of our Catholic tradition are reinforced through daily prayer, and age appropriate religious instruction as well as weekly student led Masses. They perform the readings, take part in the offertory procession and act as altar servers. The religion program includes the instruction of the classroom teacher and is supplemented by visits from religious leaders. During the various liturgical seasons, students also lead other faith practice such as Stations of the Cross during Lent. Service to others is part and parcel of the Catholic tradition, and students at all levels lead and participate in numerous service projects throughout the year to help those less fortunate in South Baldwin County. Through blanket drives for the homeless, baby items for Mary’s Shelter, food for the needy and many other service projects, students find the joy of giving to their brethren. It affords the opportunity to truly live and practice Christian principles with the school using the religious training begun by the parents in the home as a basis from which to foster the spirit of Christ.