Religious Education

"Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."  Mt. 19:14

Welcome to the Office of Religious Education for the Diocese of Stockton!        

Called to be prophetic, priestly and of service, the Office of Religious Education strives to make present in the world the person of Jesus Christ and his gospel message, and to foster a perspective of peace and justice respecting the uniqueness of each culture. Catechesis is a particular ministry of the Word, whose purpose is to make a person's "faith become living,  conscious and active, through the light of instruction." (Decree on the Bishop's Pastoral Office in the Church, 14).

The primary responsibility of the ORE is to assist parish Directors of Religious Education  to organize and maintain parish Faith Formation Programs.  To this end the Office provides specific training for Parish DRE's and Coordinators, Elementary and Junior High catechists. Through catechetical processes, Faith Formation Programs put people in communion with Jesus Christ. The Christian faithful develop a sense of belonging to the Diocesan and parish Communities finding expression in the active participation on Sunday worship and  leading to a life of  discipleship.

The Office of Religious Education also coordinates the annual Religious Education Conference, Ministry Celebration Day,  which offers over 75 workshops in English and Spanish for the professional, spiritual and personal growth and development of parish personnel, whether paid or volunteered, in all areas of Church ministry.

Last Update July 27, 2007