Religious Education

St. Francis is proud of its rich religious traditions, including the Feast of St. Francis and the Blessing of the Animals, the celebration of the church seasons, Episcopal School Sunday, and birthday blessings.

As a natural extension of our faith, St. Francis is also committed to outreach and service. Through service projects, classroom discussions and an emphasis on living the St. Francis value of being “people for others,” students begin to see that they have something unique and special to offer to the world. Through hands-on outreach to human and environmental needs in the world, they also develop:

• A desire to serve the community and pride in that service
• A personal pattern of service through an enhanced ability to organize time and talents
• An awareness of human needs and differences that extend beyond the students’ normal classroom or home experiences
• A hopeful sense of the future
• A belief that change for the better is possible through individual and group efforts
• A deep understanding of community and of the concept of giving of oneself

For Pre-Primary students through eighth graders, religious and values education is incorporated integrally into the curriculum. Through study, discussion and experiences, students are encouraged to internalize values and develop character that enables them to live Godly lives and be of service to others. 

Faith is also embraced in other ways:

• Students worship together regularly.
• Lower and Middle School students celebrate Holy Eucharist monthly.
• The senior chaplain organizes worship services and is available to school families as a pastor and friend.

Faith is a cornerstone of the St. Francis experience, and we seek to integrate religious and spiritual formation into the overall curriculum and life of the school community. However, faith is also a personal issue, and there is a delicate balance between proclaiming our faith in God as revealed in Jesus Christ and the need to respect other traditions that are a part of our school community. The school takes this responsibility very seriously and, in fact, strives for intentional pluralism: We honor all persons; invite people from all denominations and creeds to work in and attend our school; strive for justice, peace and understanding among all people; and respect the dignity of every human being.