Please note that parishes must provide two years of preparation in order for students to make their First Communion.
Parents of students making their First Communion in May 2026 will also need to fill out additional paperwork available later in the school year and email it to Eloy Escamilla, Pastoral Associate, Religious Education and Youth Ministry, at eescamilla@stgertrudechicago.org.
Parents of First Communion candidates will need to attend a number of meetings. Please review the calendar and handbook (available in August) for the schedule.
There is an additional sacramental fee required in addition to the tuition for children making their First Communion. The amount will be shared in August 2025.
For children in grades 1-8 who attend public or non-Catholic private schools, the Religious Education program provides a faith community for children and their families as they awaken, nourish, and deepen their awareness of God's presence in all things.
The goal of the Religious Education program at Saint Gertrude is to teach children to listen for and respond to God's invitation to love.
In class, students and teachers work to: