Catholic christian atmosphere
Religious education at Seton Catholic School occurs in two major areas:
1. The study of the Catholic faith
2. Integrating faith experiences into the life of each student
Besides classroom instruction in religion, liturgical and sacramental participation is part of our school program. Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (confession), all school liturgies, and opportunity to participate in Mass are part of the spiritual life of the school.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to become aware of and encourage their child(ren) in their faith life. The school can only support what is taught and experienced at home.
Prayers, Practices, and Beliefs
A list of prayers and other basic beliefs and practices for students has been developed. They are listed in the appendix of the parent handbook. Prayers may be introduced at one level and students may not be expected to have them memorized until the next year. However, students are expected to have an understanding of these prayers and they will be a part of our prayer at school. We encourage parents to also prayer at home with their children.
preparing to receive the sacraments
Preparation for the first reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist will be given in second grade. Parents/guardians should be directly involved in the religious education of their children. Meetings are held to inform and assist parents/guardians in the sacramental preparation of their child.
Liturgical Celebration
Students and teachers plan and participate in liturgies. Parents/guardians are always welcome to attend. Liturgy occurs every Wednesday at 9:45 a.m.
The Seven Principles of Catholic Social Teaching
Catholics worldwide strive to follow Jesus’ example of relating to one another. He openly embraced those that others shunned. He looked into the eyes of the afflicted and poor with compassion and love. Jesus calls us to do the same. He calls us to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, and welcome the stranger.
The Church identifies seven key principles of Catholic Social Teaching that stand today as a guide for furthering the education and understanding of what our response should be to the needs of those in our midst. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee fully embraces these principles as our core values. Our mission and vision, our programs and services are all wrapped around these vital tenants.
Life and Dignity of the Human Person
All people are sacred, made in the image and likeness of God. People do not lose dignity because of disability, poverty, age, lack of success, or race. This emphasizes people over things, being over having.
Call to Family, Community, and Participation
The human person is both sacred and social. We realize our dignity and rights in relationship with others, in community. “We are one body; when one suffers, we all suffer.” We are called to respect all of God’s gifts of creation, to be good stewards of the earth and each other.
Rights and Responsibilities
People have a fundamental right to life, food, shelter, health care, education and employment. All people have a right to participate in decisions that affect their lives. Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities to respect the rights of others in the wider society and to work for the common good.
Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
The moral test of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members. The poor have the most urgent moral claim on the conscience of the nation. We are called to look at public policy decisions in terms of how they affect the poor.
The Dignity of Work and the
Rights of Workers
People have a right to decent and productive work, fair wages, private property and economic initiative. The economy exists to serve people, not the other way around.
Solidarity
We are one human family. Our responsibilities to each other cross national, racial, economic and ideological differences. We are called to work globally for justice.
Care for God’s Creation
The goods of the earth are gifts from God. We have a responsibility to care for these goods as stewards and trustees, not as mere consumers and users.
Local Financial Aid
Ottumwa is home to two Catholic churches, offering strong support for families seeking a Christian education for their children. These congregations generously provide financial assistance to make faith-based schooling more accessible. Their contributions help ensure that families can afford this important opportunity. If you're considering this path for your children, financial aid options may be available to you. Take the first step today and explore whether you qualify for assistance.
