Faith Formation

Saint Joseph's Catholic Academy is a Catholic school with a strong moral obligation to establish expectations for lifelong demonstration of commitment to a student's faith. One of the most overt examples of this commitment is attendance at Mass by students and their family members. Catholic parents are asked to participate with their child(ren) at weekly Mass at their parish. It is the way we build a parish family that will enhance and nurture the Catholic faith.

• SJCA provides a faith-filled and values-based program in which the teachings of Jesus Christ are modeled by employees and practiced by students throughout the school day.
• SJCA students must complete one credit in religious studies during each of their four years.
• SJCA students must participate in one SJCA religious retreat each academic year while enrolled.
• SJCA students must complete twenty-five hours of approved Christian service each year and prepare a reflection paper (as described in the related course outline) on this experience. The Christian Service Program helps students to become aware of their responsibility as Christians to reach out to those in need in the parish and in local communities.
• SJCA students will attend school-sponsored Mass as part of the required program.
• SJCA students will be required to participate in special religious services that will be offered according to the liturgical calendar.
• SJCA students will be offered reconciliation services throughout the year.
• SJCA students will be expected to participate in the delivery of chapel services at least once during the academic year. Chapel will begin the school day at least two or three times a week, typically on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It will consist of prayer, liturgical readings, song and reflection. It will be student delivered, and daily announcements will follow.

The purpose of the Faith Formation Program is to provide a spiritual framework through religion classes, Christian service activities, retreats and Mass.