Religious Education

How does a unique parish in the center of the Broadway and the Theatre District meet the needs of families and children who live and work in the entertainment community?

St. Malachy's has designed a unique religious education program that connects the Catholic faith with busy family schedules by using technology! St. Malachy’s began such a program last year by adopting the RCL program that connects the parish curriculum with internet study. Ms. Suzanne Katusin, Director of Religious Education, states, "the St. Malachy’s program can expand to include internet blogging between teachers, children and parents."

Currently, the religion classes meet every other Sunday after the 11:00 AM Mass, September through June. On the weeks that the children do not meet in the classroom, the teachers assign an internet lesson for the students to complete at home. This assignment includes engaging in online interactive activities that reinforce the lesson. Then, the children respond to questions about the lesson and email their answers to their teacher for evaluation.

Through reading and creative, interactive activities online, children begin to assimilate their religious studies not only outside the church, but also throughout the week.

Many of the teachers in St. Malachy’s program are certified teachers by profession, but anyone who has a calling, may volunteer their time and talent to instruct and evangelize their faith. All teachers must have a background check and receive training in the Archdiocesan Safe Environment Program - 'Safer Spaces, Protecting God’s Children.'

Parents are encouraged to participate in all classes and reinforce their child's online studies. This not only gives parents the background and tools to understand their child’s spiritual development but also deepens their own understanding of the Catholic faith. Parents are also involved in the program in other ways. Two Sundays a year, at the beginning of Advent and Lent, the families participate in a “Family Sunday." The parish hosts a breakfast and then everyone engages in a project-based activity. This is fun for children and adults alike! The warm family-friendly environment keeps families connected to the Church and the community. Parents have praised the program which has resulted in growth from four children several years ago to close to 50 children for the 2010-2011 school year.

If you would like to enroll your child or become a teacher, please call Ms. Suzanne Katusin at 212-489-1340 ext. 102 or email her at development@actorschapel.org .