Education Commission

Mission Statement:

It is the mission of St. Mary's of the Hills Education Commission to support and provide Christ-centered opportunities for lifelong faith development and growth, based on our call and mission, through baptism, to "make disciples of all nations."  -- [June 2002]

If you would like more information about any of these activities or would like to volunteer, please fill out our volunteer form.
Volunteer Form.

Education Ministries
GIFT Ministries
Other Religious Education Ministries

Education Ministries:

Education Commission Member
Plan and implement adult, family and children's programs for the parish. The Education Commission of St. Mary of the Hills reports to Parish Council.  Meetings are held once per month, usually on the third Saturday of the month from 8:30 – 10:00 am.  New members and visitors are always welcome. 

Adult Faith Formation
Plan / Host adult spiritual and educational events. Commitment: twice a year

RCIA
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults - A process of inquiry and welcome for Non-Catholics curious about Catholicism or for  Catholics that have been away from the Church and have not completed the sacraments of Eucharist and/or Confirmation. Meets weekly Sept. through May RCIA

RCIA Sponsor
Be a sponsor for an RCIA candidate - meets weekly Sept. through May

Scripture Study / Book Club
Study various books or books of the Bible. Book Club

GIFT Ministries:

GIFT Catechist
Will serve in a leadership role, conducting breakout sessions.  Must be willing to attend planning/training sessions prior to facilitating sessions.  The materials fee will be waived for those volunteering, and carrying out, this position.  Guidance and training will be provided.  Commitment: One evening per month Sept - June

GIFT Catechist Aide
Will assist catechists during breakout sessions.  Must be willing to do some preparation before each session (s)he assists with.   Commitment: One evening per month Sept - June

GIFT Supply Coordinator
Before all GIFT sessions, assists catechists by locating and organizing materials for a particular breakout group.  Maintains a detailed listing of items distributed and returned, in order to assist the ordering and maintenance of religious ed. supplies.  This commitment will, most likely, be once a month, the week before the GIFT sessions. 

Drama
Will assist with skits, liturgical dance, or other drama related activities.  This commitment requires some preparation, and can be carried out during your assigned session, or at other sessions (your choice).   

Environment
Will plan and decorate prior to sessions. Will involve obtaining supplies, etc.

Hospitality
Will assist with the meal portion of GIFT, or with greeting guests as they arrive.  This commitment is for the entire season, before, or during the session you are registered for, unless indicated. 

Music
Will assist with music during sessions, possibly during prayer, breakouts, or at other times.

Packet Assembly
Will assist with stuffing for the gift packets.  Stuffing is usually done on the Tuesday prior to GIFT week in the morning.  Occasionally, items need to be cut out, or assembled prior to GIFT sessions.  Items will be made available for pick up.  A deadline to drop off will be given.  You will be contacted on a case by case basis to see if you are available. 

Photographer
Will take photographs during GIFT sessions, using either St. Mary’s camera, or your own.  Will see to it that the photos are developed, or delivered in a usable format.  (Any costs incurred will be reimbursed). Commitment: once a month during your GIFT session

Prayer Leader
Will help to facilitate prayer for the GIFT gatherings.  This volunteer should be willing to prepare ahead of time and to, sometimes, assist in the formation of the prayer experience. 

Publicity
Will see to it that the GIFT program and all of its activities are made well known to all members of the parish through bulletin articles, posters, handouts, etc.

Other Religious Education Ministries:

First Eucharist Catechist
Will assist with the children, leading their sessions, during sacrament preparation meetings.  There will be no more than four sessions where your assistance would be needed.  These sessions would fall on evenings or weekends. 

Reconciliation Catechist
Will assist with the children, leading their sessions, during sacrament preparation meetings.  There will be no more than three sessions where your assistance would be needed.  These sessions would fall on evenings or weekends. 

Junior Youth Group Chaperone
Chaperone Youth Group events. Commitment: Special events or bi-weekly meetings.

Vacation Bible School
Adult assistants and Youth assistants needed for various activities. Commitment: Usually the third week in June.

 Youth Group Team
Plan and implement events. Commitment: Special events or bi-weekly meetings. 

If you would like more information about any of these activities or would like to volunteer, please fill out our volunteer form.
Volunteer Form.

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