At Baptism, parents learn they are to be the first teachers of their children in the faith. And church, by its very nature, is a communal experience of faith, hope and love -- we are "the Body of Christ." The Religious Education Program at St. Joseph Church accompanies our children on their faith journey as they come to know, love and serve God, while also providing families with opportunities to grow in community and practice charity and service toward one other and the greater community.
Our program features weekly classroom instruction, September - May, for students in Grades K - 8. There is a strong emphasis on Sacred Scripture, the Mass and prayer. Family events centered around the start of the school year, Christmas, Lent and Easter are planned, as well as service projects sponsored by the Religious Education program. New families are always welcome to join our program!
Please contact Parish Catechetical Leader Clare Krakoviak with questions about the program at [email protected] or 973-669-8331.
Registration for the 2022-23 School Year is now open. Click here to learn more and register.
Religious Education for Children attending public/non-Catholic school:
Grades 1-4: Following the Sunday 9:15 a.m. Mass
Grades 5-7: Tuesday at 7 - 8:15 p.m.
Grade 8/Confirmation Prep: Saturday at 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Preparation for the Sacraments of First Eucharist/First Reconciliation and Confirmation take place in Grades 2 and 8, respectively. We also offer an alternative track for those entering the program after Grade 1. Please be aware that Archdiocesan policy requires two consecutive years of instruction to be eligible to receive the sacraments.