What are we about? Inter-Parish Religious Formation, IPRF provides religious education for youth in grades K-12 at St. Mary and St. Joseph Parishes in Appleton, Wisconsin. We provide sacramental preparation for First Eucharist, First Reconciliation and Confirmation for youth at both parishes.	Mission Statement Curriculum Overview Staff Picture and staff information
Mission Statement We are forming families of disciples by nourishing them with the Word of God. We are called as disciples ourselves... To lead the present generation of families to Jesus. This process of forming disciples is gradual. It involves not only inviting and welcoming children and parents to begin the journey, but also includes multiple opportunities for specific instruction, varied participation and meaningful worship/celebration experiences in the heart of the parish. How will we know if our community of disciples has grown in awareness... -our families will pray/worship more frequently. -our families will find ways to participate in parish life. -our families will be involved in service/outreach experiences. -our parents will desire to be involved in personal growth opportunities. -our student assessment results (ACRE test) will meet or exceed national averages. Back to Top Curriculum Overview Grade Students.. K. Learn that God’s personal love surrounds them daily. 1. Learn that Jesus helps us to understand God’s love. 2. Learn that the Sacraments especially Eucharist are ways to understand God’s love. 3. Learn that the Church is the gathering place for those who are loved by God and who reach out in love to others. 4. Learn that the followers of Jesus are called to live a life of love. 5. Learn that each of the Sacraments contain a message and challenge of God’s love. 6. Learn that the Old Testament deepens our understanding of God’s covenant love for us as well as our response to God. 7. Learn that the New Testament presents Jesus as a tangible sign of God’s love. 8. Learn that the Church which has unfolded throughout history has been promised the Spirit’s abiding presence. 9. Grow in their understanding of Jesus as the center of faith and history as well as are challenged to grow in a personal relationship with Him. 10. Grow in their understanding of Jesus’ moral vision as well as are challenged to integrate His values into their lives as disciples. 11/12. Grow in their understanding of the demands of a discipleship lifestyle and become able to discern their personal response to the Spirit’s invitation to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation. Back to Top IPRF Staff L to R: Jenny Schubring, Sue Dernbach, Celia McKee, Mary Summers, Cortney Curran, Andrew Russell Back to Top
Andrew Russell is the Director of Religious Education. His responsibilities include: Supervising the program in general, coordinating grade 11, coordinating Sacrament preparation for First Eucharist, First Reconciliation, Confirmation, and Children who are entering or returning to the Catholic Church. Mr. Russell holds a MA in Theology from Catholic Theological Union, and Advanced Catechist Certification. He has been a professional minister since 1989. Andrew presents workshops and retreats throughout the diocese, and teaches in the Commissioned Ministry program.
Suzanne Dernbach is the Coordinator for Kindergarten through fourth grade. She also assists in preparation for First Eucharist. Sue holds a BA from National Louis University in Elementary Education, and Advanced Catechist Certification. She entered faith formation ministry over 20 years ago after successful teaching career. She has presented workshops diocesan wide in catechist training and sacramental preparation.
Jennifer Schubring is the Coordinator for grades 5-8. Her responsibilities include assisting with retreats grades 6-8, and assisting with First Reconciliation preparation. She holds a BS in Elementary Education from University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, and Advanced Religious Certification. Jenny has over 17 years experience in catechetical ministry. Before entering ministry she was a professional teacher. She has presented workshops diocesan wide in catechist training and sacramental preparation. And presents retreats at parishes in the diocese.
Celia McKee is Youth Minister for St. Mary and St. Joseph Parishes and coordinates grades 9 and 10 religious education. Celia is responsible for comprehensive youth ministry, including retreats for grades 6-12, social and service opportunities for grades 6-12, and outreach to teens and their families. She holds a Masters in Servant Leadership from Viterbo University, is a certified secondary teacher, and has Advanced Religious Certification. Celia has presented workshops at diocesan conventions, and is a key member of the Catholic Youth Ministers Association. Back to Top