The Respect Life Education Office of the Archdiocese of Boston is committed to explaining the teachings of the Catholic Church regarding life, love, relationships, and sexuality. We are here to help you better understand the Catholic Church’s teachings on life and chastity and to help you explain these teachings to your children. Studies show that PARENTS are the number one influence in their children’s lives, so we encourage you to take an interest in their lives and education. The Catholic Church recognizes parents as the primary educators of their children in matters of faith and morals, so we urge you to be informed about what your children are learning and to take an active role in their moral formation.

The Respect Life Education Office puts forth two curricula for middle school students that cover life, love, relationships, and sexuality: one is for Catholic Schools, called “See, I Make All Things New” and the other is for Parish Based Religious Education Programs, called “Created for Love.” These programs require parental involvement as the classroom portions do not function as sex education programs. Instead, we ask YOU to explain sexuality to your children when you feel they are ready. Your school or parish should hold a Parent Information Night, which is open to parents of children in grades 4-7. This meeting is geared towards helping you better understanding the issues related to human sexuality as well as questions that may come up with your child. Additionally, your school or parish has been provided with resources to assist you in beginning this conversation. First is a DVD called “Know Yourself,” which was produced by Life Athletes, Inc. You are welcome to borrow it, and we ask you to return it when you are finished. You should also receive a booklet to keep called “God’s Great Plan,” which was produced by the Respect Life Education Office, and can help you answer some of the questions your children might have.

For more information on the Catholic Church’s teachings on life, love, and sexuality, please visit www.chastity.com. For more information on Sexually Transmitted Diseases, please visit www.cdc.gov. For general information on the Catholic Church’s teachings, please visit www.catholic.com.

Parent Information Night

• Parent Information Night video
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Parent Evaluation
• You should have received:
  • God’s Great Plan booklets
  • Know Yourself DVDs
  • STI Information from Dr. Shirley Gonzalez

Middle School Curriculum: