Ss. Simon & Jude Cathedral

Religious Education Program

Sr. Loreto Downing, Director, 602-433-7610

Ss Simon & Jude religious education continues the mission of Jesus to bring about God’s Kingdom by proclaiming and teaching God’s word, celebrating the sacred mysteries and serving the people of God. Each religious education program seeks to embody the dimension of message, community, and service. “Through systematic instruction, prayer, initiation into sacramental life and worship, and involvement in pastoral activities of the local church, catechesis nurtures a new way of life in Christ” (National Directory for Catechesis, May 2005). All volunteers must complete Safe Environment Training.

Religious Eduction Schedule

  • Pre-school – 2nd Grade: Sunday during 9:00 am Mass
  • 1st - 6th Grade in English: Wednesday 6:45-8:00 p.m.
  • 1st - 6th Grade in Spanish: Thursday 6:45-8:00 p.m.
  • 7th -9th Grades, In Spanish and English: Monday 6:45 – 8:15 p.m.

Religious Education Catechists

Catechists guide the children through weekly lessons based on curriculum provided by the parish. All catechists are trained by the Diocese of Phoenix and receive certification. Sr. Loreto Downing, 602-433-7610

Religious Education Aides

Aides help keep order in the classroom and help with lessons and special projects. Our aim is to have at least one volunteer per classroom. Aides do not have to be certified by the diocese, though they are encouraged to attend training sessions. Sr. Loreto Downing, 602-433-7610

Religious Education Volunteer

Adults and teens are needed to help with office work, special events, and fund raising for our mission project. Sr. Loreto Downing, 602-433-7610

Ministry to Physically and Mentally Challenged

We have classes for children with special needs on Monday evening from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. and classes for Deaf Children on Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sr. Loreto Downing, 602-433-7610

Sonshine Sunday Volunteer

At the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, our young children (3 years old – 2nd Grade) gather to participate in the Good Shepherd Program, in which they learn about their faith in an age-appropriate setting. Sr. Loreto Downing, 602-433-7610