What is PREP?

PREP (Parish Religious Education Program) is a 7 year religious education program for children. The program supports the parents to help the children build the foundation for a life-long journey of growing and living in faith as disciples of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Where and when is Prep?

Classes are taught in the church basement and are in session from September to May each Tuesday evening from 6:30pm – 7:45pm.

What is the cost?

For grades 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6, the fee is $50.00. For grades 2 and 7, the fee is $90.00. These fees partially cover the costs of textbooks and classroom materials.

About the program

Classes are taught by volunteer catechists under the direction of the pastors. Each level has a catechist – some levels may have assistants. There is also a Coordinator and Coordinator Assistants who help run the program. We are currently using the program “Call to Faith”. This program provides a solid foundation of Scripture and tradition, a rich diversity of prayer, and a developmental sequence of activities.

Sacrament of Reconciliation & First Holy Communion (Prep 2)

To adequately prepare your child to receive these Sacraments, your child must have received the Sacrament of Baptism and completed Prep 1. First Holy Communion is usually scheduled for a date in May.

Sacrament of Confirmation (Prep 7)

To receive this Sacrament, your child must have completed Prep 6. The child is expected to be knowledgeable in their faith, and ready to say YES to their religious commitment. The date of Confirmation is usually set for May. Confirmation candidates attend Spirit Day and a retreat, as well as complete a service component.

What is expected?

Catechism classes are on a continuum – what is learnt in one year is built upon in the next. It is expected that:

Your child attend Prep and Sunday Mass regularly
A copy of your child’s Sacramental certificate(s) for all classes Prep 2 and higher is provided along with the completed registration material

What are St John the Apostle Parish Mass Times?

Weekend Masses:

Sat 4 PM ( Cantonese) , 5:30 p,m

Sun 9AM , 11AM, 6PM

Weekday Masses:

Mon - Sat 8 AM

Public Holidays 9AM

PREP