THE EMMAUS EXPERIENCE

What is the Emmaus Experience?

The Emmaus Experience is based on the Loreto Program Model created by the Worcester Diocese Office of Religious Education to meet the needs of a particular parish. Currently, the program is used in several parishes throughout this diocese and in other dioceses throughout the United States. The program contains three cycles, namely, CREED, CHURCH (Church History and Sacraments) and SCRIPTURE (Old and New Testament).

What is the structure of the Program?

The program consists of Parent/Student Gathering Days and a week of catechetical instruction in the summer.

How will this look at St. Brigid for the upcoming school year?

A. Gathering Days

There are four (4) Gathering Days planned starting in the weekend of September 11 & 12 as preparation for the summer program. These Gathering Days are scheduled for September, November, January, and March. The Gathering Days are planned for one weekend during the month —  Saturday— from 2:30 - 4:00 pm and Sunday 10:00 - 11:30 am. With the Gathering Days offered twice, we anticipate holding them in the Church Hall. Should a larger space be needed, we are looking at the option of the Senior Center. Depending on the type of Gathering planned the schedule might vary.

B. Week of Religious Education

The week of Religious Education (CCD) is scheduled for the WEEK OF Monday, June 27 to Friday, July 1, 2011. The school day is 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, beginning with a Mass at 8:00 am.

What are the benefits of this type of Religious Education program?

• It is more formative.

• It is a more holistic approach to faith formation, integrating liturgy, music, catechesis, sharing and prayer.

• Catechists who participate in this model see more retention of the subject matter taught.

Will there be a nurse available?

We are currently working on the availability of nursing services for the duration of the week.

What about classroom structure?

We anticipate dividing the students by their grade level and we are looking to place a catechist and assistant in each classroom.