Education Grade School For more than a century Cathedral School has served the children of Portland. Affiliated with St. Mary’s Cathedral and located in downtown Portland it draws students from throughout the metropolitan area. Religious Education for Children Attending Public School  The program consists of 22 sessions during the academic year.  These sessions take place in the classrooms of Cathedral School on Sunday mornings, from 10:15 - 11 am.  Registration is in September through the parish office. Children's Liturgy of the Word Takes place every Sunday during the 9am Mass.  Before the first reading, children age four through fourth grade are invited to leave with their teacher for instruction appropriate for their age.  They return to sit with their parents after the homily. Preparation for First Communion and First Reconciliation (Confession) Occurs on Monday afternoons (3:30-4:30pm) staggered throughout the school year.  The class consists of mostly second graders. But every year there are a few from other grades.  Parents attend two evening sessions and are encouraged to take an active part in their children’s preparation.  First reconciliation is on an evening in Lent.  First Communion is at a Sunday morning Mass in May.  Registration is in the Fall through either the school or the parish office. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)  This exploration of Catholic beliefs and practices is for adults who wish to find out about our Catholic Church. The process begins on Tuesday, September 4, 2007. Although those who participate are not pressured to become Catholic, many do.  Some are baptized.  Those who are already baptized in another Christian denomination make a Profession of Faith.  These sessions are also attended by baptized Catholics who know little about their faith and wish to learn more. Sessions are Tuesday evenings 7-8:30pm. Call Fr. George for more information. Various Programs of Study of Sacred Scripture or some aspect of our Catholic faith take place throughout the year.  For information about these programs consult this web page updated monthly, the Sunday Bulletin, the religion page of the Saturday Oregonian, the Catholic Sentinel.