PHSR Program
The Cathedral’s Parish Home School of Religion (PHSR) program is a time of prayer and faith sharing for our families. It provides Kindergarten through 8th grade catechesis following a hybrid model.

• There are sessions at the Cathedral once a month, September thru May in the lower sacristy from 2-4 pm.
• The catechetical team includes a catechist for each of our three groups: K-4, 5-8, and parents. The three groups meet jointly as well as individually during the monthly sessions.
• There is homework for the remaining weeks of the month which is returned at the next class meeting.

The catechetical team led by the Cathedral's Parish Catechitcal Leader (PCL) meets during the summer months to plan the theme of the year and each of the monthly sessions including resources for the month as well as special celebrations in the liturgical year.  Each catechist then fills in the details for her/his sessions. It isn't uncommon for the K-4 and 5-8 groups to meet together for a session or part of a session based on the needs of the topic. The PCL is available to work with the catechists throughout the year and will assist with topics and resources as needed.  

Currently, RCL Benzinger is the textbook publisher. In addition to the monthly session, a calendar is prepared by the catechetical team for the parents to continue working with the topic of the month. In addition to the texts, each child has an age-appropriate Bible and each student in the 5-8 group also has a YouCat which is used during the month and at the monthly session.  

Sacramental Preparation 
Sacramental preparation is available for First Reconciliation/First Eucharist and Teen Confirmation through small group, on-line, and/or home schooling. There is a two-year faith formation requirement prior to the reception of a sacrament which can be met by participating in the PHSR program, attending Catholic school, etc.

First Reconciliation/First Eucharist: This program is for children in our Parish who are in 2nd Grade or older and enrolled in faith formation for at least two years prior to receiving the sacrament. It is a combination of sessions at the Cathedral and textbook work to be completed at home. 

Teen Confirmation: This program is for young people in our Parish who are in 8th, 9th, 10th, or 11th grade, would like to receive the sacrament of Confirmation to complete their initiation in the Church, and have been enrolled in faith formation for at least two years prior to receiving the sacrament.

Rite of Christian Initiation Adapted for Children and Teens
When appropriate, the Rite of Christian Initiation adapted for children and teens is also available for our parish families.

Interested? Have more questions?
Please contact Carolyn Apperson, DMin
Parish Catechetical Leader
Phone: 216 771-6666, ex 5620
[email protected]